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The 6 Most Beautiful Hotel Pools in the South of France
©Les Roches Blanches
From infinity pools with sea views to hidden gems nestled in the hills, these are our favourite hotel pools in the South of France.
There’s something undeniably special about summertime in the South of France. The long, sun-drenched days, the scent of pine and rosemary in the air, the cicadas in the background and of course, those hotel pools that seem made for slow afternoons and salty hair. Over the years, we’ve explored many corners of the region, from the Riviera to Provence to the Basque coast, and we’ve been lucky to stay in some truly unforgettable places. This summer, we’re sharing a selection of our absolute favourite hotel pools, places that feel like little slices of paradise, whether you’re looking to relax, recharge, or simply soak it all in.
©Les Roches Blanches
Les Roches Blanches, Cassis
Built into the cliffs overlooking the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, Les Roches Blanches offers a visual feast at every turn. This five-star haven at the entrance of the Calanques National Park is famed for its cascading gardens, pine-scented terraces, and no fewer than four spectacular pools. Two infinity pools, one delicately spiraled into the rocks, the other stretching sleekly toward the sea, seamlessly blend into the landscape. You’ll feel as though you’re swimming straight into the horizon. With elegant loungers, Sisley spa products, and a raw food bar perched above the waves, every detail is designed to celebrate coastal luxury and natural beauty.
©Airelles Gordes
Airelles Gordes, La Bastide
Set high above the Luberon valley in the fairytale village of Gordes, La Bastide is a Provençal dream brought to life. Its spectacular terraced pool is carved into the hilltop gardens, surrounded by dry-stone walls, cypress trees, and sweeping views of the countryside below. It’s hard to imagine a more romantic place to spend a summer afternoon. Between dips in the pool, guests can sip rosé, read in the shade of olive trees, or wander through the manicured gardens that give the property its timeless charm. The essence of dolce vita in the South of France.
©Hôtel du Palais
Hôtel du Palais, Biarritz
A legendary address on the Atlantic coast, the Hôtel du Palais is a true icon of French elegance. Once the imperial residence of Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, this historic palace offers a rare blend of heritage and luxury. Among its many highlights is the stunning outdoor pool, a 463m² marvel with a signature Californian bean shape, set just above the ocean with sweeping views of Biarritz’s famed lighthouse and the crashing Atlantic waves. Surrounded by striped parasols and palm trees, the pool invites you to step into another era, where glamour and refinement reign supreme. Add in the Michelin-starred dining and the impeccable service, and you have a seaside escape unlike any other.
©Cap Estel
Cap Estel, Èze
Cap Estel is the definition of secluded luxury. Perched on a private peninsula near Monaco, this five-star gem offers a sense of privacy and serenity that’s rare even on the Côte d’Azur. The showstopper here is the saltwater infinity pool, set at the edge of the property so that its water appears to melt into the Mediterranean. With panoramic views stretching from the French Riviera to the distant outline of Corsica, it’s a place to pause time. The experience is completed by cascading gardens, fountains, and a feeling of effortless elegance throughout.
©Cheval Blanc
Cheval Blanc, Saint-Tropez
An icon of Tropezian elegance, Cheval Blanc sits peacefully by the sea at the entrance of the village. This luxurious palace hotel offers its guests not only a private beach but also a serene pool area, complete with plush loungers and a calm, understated design. Framed by pines and warmed by the golden Riviera sun, the pool is a quiet haven amid the buzz of Saint-Tropez. After a swim, indulge in the Guerlain Spa or the 3-Michelin-starred restaurant, La Vague d’Or. Every detail here is designed to soothe the senses and elevate your stay.
©Les Roches Rouges
Les Roches Rouges, Saint-Raphaël
At the foot of the red-rock Estérel hills, Les Roches Rouges is a retreat where architecture meets the elements. With its minimalist lines and vintage Mediterranean charm, this hotel lets nature take centre stage. Its two outdoor pools, including a seawater basin carved directly into the rock, are strikingly positioned above the sea. Whether you’re floating in the heated lap pool or basking in the saltwater pool with the breeze on your face, you’ll feel completely immersed in the rhythm of the Riviera. Simple, serene, and effortlessly chic.
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