Tan skin, salty hair, and long hours of Mediterranean sun—there is no better place than the Côte d’Azur in the summertime. Amid the azure skies and emerald waters, relaxation isn’t just a state of mind but a way of life. If you’re seeking a brief escape or an extended retreat in the South of France, these best of the best spa hotels promise an unforgettable journey of luxury and tranquillity.
From the iconic Dior Spa at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc to the tranquil oasis of Terre Blanche Spa, discover a world of relaxation amidst the beauty of the Mediterranean coast. Our curated guide highlights the finest spas, offering exclusive treatments, state-of-the-art facilities, and holistic wellness experiences. Whether your days are filled lying on a beach or dancing on a table, here are the best spas to indulge in after a day in paradise.
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The Dior Spa Eden-Roc at Hôtel du Cap-Eden Roc
Nestled between a century-old rose garden and majestic pine trees, the Dior Spa at the iconic Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is a sanctuary of serenity and luxury. The spa unites Monsieur Dior’s and Hotel du Cap’s shared passion for nature, elegance, and flowers (especially roses). Its philosophy is inspired by the natural elements of its surroundings: the garden, the sea, the rocks, and the sun.
Wellness experience
Exclusively designed for the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, the four Dioriginels Rituals are fully customizable, drawing on the power of the elements to realign your energy and achieve physical, psychological, and emotional harmony. For those looking for a more profound wellness journey, the spa also offers extended wellness retreats lasting from three to 14 days, allowing guests to immerse themselves in a comprehensive experience guided by expert therapists, physical trainers, and aestheticians.
Treatment rooms
The spa features four luxurious treatment suites, each characterized by one of the four natural elements of its surroundings. The Roc Affusion Suite, inspired by the rugged rocks of the coastline, is carved from onyx and includes water jets, a sauna, and an ice fountain. Inspired by the warm Mediterranean sun, the Riviera Suite offers a serene space for two with soft colors and a patio among Mediterranean trees. The Dior Gazebo, drawing from the lush gardens, is a romantic double cabin near the rose garden. While the Dior Cabana, inspired by the sea, is a secluded cabana with breathtaking Mediterranean views.
Our favorite treatment
We adore the Soin Premier, a facial inspired by the Dior Prestige line. This 1.5-hour lifting and resculpting facial massage infuses your skin with the life force of the first buds of Rose de Granville. Rose Quartz is used to gently massage the face, revealing a smooth, calm, and brightened complexion.
Once inside the enchanting air of Hotel-du-Cap, it is almost impossible to leave, so we suggest reserving a private cabana and spending the day luxuriating above the rocks. With the rolling waves of the Mediterranean whispering in the distance, there is no better place to relax your body and mind.
Contact: +33 4929 376 21, hotelducapedenroc.com
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Grand-Hôtel Spa at Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat
Located on the picturesque peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the Spa at Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat is a haven of tranquility. The spa provides a comprehensive wellness journey within 17 acres of flower-lined gardens overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Wellness experience
Spa director Charlotte Cointement aims to create ‘an authentic wellness experience combining expertise and innovation.’ She brings this to life by hosting visiting practitioners and inviting guests to partake in unique experiences such as cold therapy inspired by the Wim Hof method and a seven-gong live performance led by a gong expert and sound therapist.
Additionally, the hotel offers a personalized mindfulness and well-being program from three to 17 days, designed to help guests embrace the surrounding nature and achieve serenity. Led by a team of dedicated wellness experts, the approach is built on four pillars: exercise, relaxation, nature, and wholesome cuisine, allowing guests to immerse themselves in a world of wellness.
Treatment rooms
The spa offers state-of-the-art facilities, including indoor and outdoor fitness studios, hydrotherapy circuits and a lap pool. The outdoor spa cabanas, hidden amongst the garden, provide the ultimate location to unwind with the gentle sounds of the sea drifting through the air. For a romantic couple experience, the grand salon is complete with a private sauna, bathtub and relaxation areas.
Our favorite treatment
Elite Traveler recommends the luxurious Black Diamond Face Lift, part of the 111SKIN pop-up. This treatment includes gentle exfoliation, wrinkle-minimizing wand application, and a deep facial muscle massage, creating a lifted sculpted appearance.
Contact: +33 493 765 050, fourseasons.com
Terre Blanche Spa at Terre Blanche
In the heart of Provence, Terre Blanche Spa is a haven of peace amidst cypress trees, aromatic plants and rolling hills. The two-floor, standalone villa greets you with an aura of relaxation. At the heart of the spa is a 20m indoor pool lined with grand white pillars, expansive bay windows, and warm sunlight shining through the skylight of the double-height ceilings. Outside, the vitality pool is heated to 92°F, with water jets, bubble beds and a massaging shower to help release tension. The spa also boasts a variety of other facilities including a sauna, steam room, hammam, laconium, relaxation and fitness rooms.
Wellness experience
Specially designed to help you regain inner balance and vitality, the Terre Blanche Spa Detox Programme offers a complete wellness experience. The program harmoniously combines nutrition, physical activities, treatments and mental coaching to motivate body and mind.
Additionally, the Zen Garden is an idyllic setting for meditation, relaxation, or simply enjoying the gentle sun of Provence.
Treatment rooms
The spa has 12 treatment rooms and two luxurious couple suites. It offers a variety of facial and body treatments using products from the esteemed Swiss brand Valmont and the organic cosmetics brand Kos Paris. The couple suites are designed as private sanctuaries, each featuring a steam room, double Jacuzzi and a private terrace overlooking the valleys of Provence.
Our favorite treatment
To celebrate Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort’s 20th anniversary, the new spa ritual “Treasures of the Hive” is a must-try. The luxurious 60-minute massage incorporates a unique beeswax oil sourced from the nearby village of Tanneron. It is followed by a 30-minute anti-aging facial using Valmont’s Essence of Bees range, leaving you radiant and revitalized.
Contact: +33 4943 990 00, terreblanche.com
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Le C Club Spa at Carlton Cannes
Surrounded by the elegance and glamour of the legendary Carlton, Le C Club combines a sophisticated ambiance with state of the art facilities and personalized treatments. Situated on the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, this spa delivers a serene escape in the heart of Cannes.
Wellness experience
At Le C Club, guests benefit from personalized programs and tailored coaching through comprehensive “Health Fitness” assessments that consider medical and sports profiles. This avant-garde facility caters to self-care and fitness with a range of advanced solutions and infrastructures, including 3D scanning, physical and nutritional analysis, and individual coaching sessions.
The club is equipped with the latest-generation cardio and weight training equipment and features a boxing ring inaugurated by legend Mike Tyson himself. Group classes in strength training, yoga, and Pilates, along with cryotherapy sessions, are available to aid recovery and stimulate immunity.
Treatment rooms
The spa features three treatment rooms, including a luxurious couple’s room with a private hammam. Offering a variety of facial and body treatments using premium products from innovative brands such as Dr Barbara Sturm, Dr Burgener, SwissLine, Philip B, and Wesak Paris. The fitness experiences at Le C Club also include a full-size boxing ring, gym, yoga and Pilates studio, and a cryotherapy room, ensuring a comprehensive approach to health and wellness.
Our favorite treatment
Dr Barbara Sturm’s signature treatments are highly recommended. Known for her non-aggressive, anti-inflammatory skincare approach, Dr Sturm’s Molecular Cosmetics skincare, haircare and supplements are based on innovations in ingredient science and potent natural extracts. Her treatments strengthen and improve the skin, delivering the renowned SturmGlow.
Contact: +33 4930 641 00, carltoncannes.com
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L’Oasis Spa by Carita at Hôtel Martinez
Hidden in the middle of the iconic Hotel Martinez is the perfectly named L’Oasis du Martinez. Designed by the renowned Pierre-Yves Rochon, the spa features not one but two enchanting gardens: the lush and wild Jardin d’Ombre and the light-filled, classically French Jardin de Lumière. Between the gardens and a serene swimming lane, L’Oasis du Martinez offers an idyllic retreat combining the French art of living with the spirit of relaxation on the Mediterranean coast.
Wellness experience
Known as the “Maison de Beauté,” Carita revolutionized the beauty industry with its innovative approach, combining scientific research with luxurious treatments. The brand’s philosophy centers around three pillars: detox, penetrate and amplify the skin. The products incorporate precious minerals such as 24K Biotech gold, micronized tourmaline and water from the lagoons of Polynesia. The visionary brand has been the secret of A-listers from Rita Howard to Madonna.
The spa also includes a full-service hair and beauty salon, a barber, and facilities for manicures, pedicures and waxing, all using organic and eco-responsible products. The steam area with a sensory shower is a delightful pre-or-post-treatment indulgence.
Treatment rooms
The spa features seven airy treatment rooms, including two spacious couple suites with a private hammam and a calming salt wall for halotherapy. The entire spa feels deceptively spacious and is beautifully designed to offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets of Cannes.
Our favorite treatment
We recommend any of Carita’s signature facial treatments, such as the Rejuvenic Gold regenerating treatment using 24k biotech gold or the Hypertonic Lagoon Facial. Each can be boosted with the Pro. Morphose R.F. is a cutting-edge technology that uses radiofrequency to stimulate the skin’s biological functions for intense cell regeneration.
Contact: +33 49 298 7490, hotelmartinez.com