Sainte Valerie Hotel

Sainte Valerie Hotel is a beautiful spot, nestled in a lush garden amidst the busy streets. The house dates back to the '30s, and it's been owned and run by the same family since 1945. The hotel stands out on the street with its walls dripping with greenery, and guests enter through a gated passage into the gorgeous gardens. Pathways shaded by trees and flowering vines pass by the 24 rooms and lead to cozy nooks where guests can sit and relax. Interiors are elegant and upscale. The lobby and lounge are done with a primarily black-and-white base and include rich touches of design and color that pop against the stark background -- think zebra-print floor mats, animal statuettes in a rainbow of colors, and stunning chandeliers with a sprinkling of colorful crystals. Guests are largely couples, who come for the romantic atmosphere and excellent service.

Sainte Valerie Hotel is in Antibes, a popular tourist region between Nice and Cannes on France’s eastern coast. The hotel is in a quiet area surrounded by churches, hotels, and residences, only an eight-minute walk from the coast of Juan-les-Pins, where there are plenty of restaurants and a popular beach, plus a casino and an active nightlife. The nearest train station is an eight-minute walk away. It is an eight-minute drive the center of Antibes’ old town, where museums, shops, and restaurants are abundant. At the tip of the harbor, overlooking the sea, a 16th-century fort offers beautiful views and grounds and is a 12-minute drive from the hotel. It is a 25-minute drive into the center of nearby Cannes. Nice International Airport is a 25-minute drive away. 

Individually decorated rooms each have their own flair, and each is named for a flower in the garden. The contemporary, elegant design makes use of bright pops of color, textures, or playful artwork to create beautiful spaces. Some rooms have a theme (like animal prints or a dominant color scheme), while other rooms are more subdued, employing mostly neutral colors and few accents, but all are still spacious and quite comfortable. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, minibars, kettles alongside free tea and coffee, and safes. Most rooms have furnished balconies or private terraces overlooking the gardens, some with loungers. Bathrooms are beautiful, offering shower/tub combos with deep soaking tubs and separate toilet stalls. Hairdryers, robes, slippers, and vanity kits are provided. Free toiletries include soaps, shampoo, and conditioner. Upgraded rooms have more upscale decor, and options like extra space, sitting areas with sofa beds, pod coffeemakers, and separate showers and tubs.

Limited amenities are available at this small hotel, but those on offer are high quality. In the center of the garden, a balustrade attempts to hold back the greenery around a small pool. Elegant white-wicker loungers sit under white umbrellas, though the terrace gets little sun. It is a beautiful, relaxing spot. Next to the pool, the charming breakfast terrace has colorful tables surrounded by chairs stacked with bright orange and yellow pillows. A sumptuous breakfast buffet includes fresh fruits, local specialties, and made-to-order omelets. Although it is not included, guests generally find it worth the price. Private parking is available for a fee, or street parking can be found for free. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. On the downside, there are no full restaurant or wellness facilities.