5 Ideas for 5-Star Hotels Among the Most Beautiful in France

© Hôtel Crillon-Le-Brave by Mr.Tripper, Chais Monnet by Albane Photographer, and the Château de Versailles.

Certain hotels, much like the most beautiful French regions, are destinations in themselves. People visit them to savor those suspended moments in a unique setting, to enjoy distinctive cuisine, and to discover these residences, each with its own story and strong identity.

Located near Martell and Hennessy, two of the most prestigious cognac houses, and just steps from the old town, this 5-star hotel, once a trading house created by the Salignac family and later owned by Jean Monnet, one of the founding fathers of the European Union, was meticulously restored by its latest owner, entrepreneur Javad Marandi, also the owner of Soho Farmhouse in England. What immediately captivates is the volume of this exceptional industrial heritage, transformed by Didier Poignant. The lobby, housed in the old distillery, is dominated by glass, casting its light over the sofas and carpets. The decor features light wood furniture, parquet flooring, and a palette of browns, blonds, terracotta, and beige. Among the 92 rooms, those nestled in the former wine cellar boast an undeniable charm. The Hub connects the two restaurants and the spa.

The bistro-style restaurant offers a classic but well-executed cuisine, while the gastronomic option, set in the stunning Chai aux Foudres with its 9-meter-high ceilings, is helmed by Chef Mathis Debize, who presents a highly inspired menu with poetically presented dishes, reflecting impeccable cooking and refined creativity. The former cooperage is now home to Le 1868, a jazz bar with a cozy English club atmosphere and an impressive selection of over 300 cognacs from 40 houses. Finally, this member of the Leading Hotels of the World offers a beautiful spa featuring Olivier Claire and Kos Paris treatments, a fitness area, and a vast indoor pool bathed in light, extending outdoors.

The extra touch: For families and groups of friends, nine impeccably equipped and beautifully decorated apartments, ranging from one to three bedrooms, are also available for booking.

Chais Monnet & Spa, 50 Avenue Paul Firino Martell, 16100 Cognac

© Chais Monnet by Albane Photographer

This 5-star hotel, inaugurated in 1909, could almost be intimidating. Designed by architect Jean-Albert Hébrard—who also created the casino and the Cachat spring pavilion—royalty once flocked here to admire this grand monument nestled between the Alps and Lake Geneva, surrounded by 19 hectares of parkland. Even today, it amazes in every detail; the renovation was overseen by François Chatillon, Chief Architect of Historic Monuments, and François Champsaur, an interior architect. Guests can marvel at the ceilings painted by Gustave-Louis Jaulmes, appreciate the Art Nouveau and Art Deco touches, and admire the 19th-century precious wood furniture. Modern accents bring warmth and cheer to the 150 rooms.

Three brasseries serve a mix of international, Italian, and classic cuisine, while in summer, the Oliveraie terrace offers Mediterranean flavors by the pool. The gastronomic restaurant, Les Fresques, is set in one of the finest dining rooms in this Leading Hotels of The World member, with breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the culinary magic of Chef Patrice Vander, who now boasts three Écotable stars. The finesse of the smoked féra and the foie gras-studded supreme will leave you speechless, while the delicate creations of pastry chef Clément Pouillotte are truly remarkable. The 1,700 m2 evian®Spa explores water in all its forms: from sauna and steam baths to sensory pathways, and even a snow cave. With a stunning photo of eternal snow overlooking the pool, you'll always be drawn back to the source!

The extra touch: The 1,700 m2 evian®Spa features water in all its forms: sauna steam, sensory pathways, and a snow cave. A stunning mountain photo with eternal snow overlooks the pool, bringing you back to the source!

Hôtel Royal Evian Resort, 13 Avenue des Mateirons, 74500 Évian-les-Bains

Nestled between Dreux and Évreux, just an hour from Paris, this former property of Catherine Deneuve has been transformed into a 5-star hotel by the Domaines de Fontenille collection. This château, set in a magnificent 30-hectare landscaped park, invites you to dream in its elegant salons with fireplaces and wood paneling. The 39 rooms are spread between the château and three houses, featuring refined decor with pastel tones, antique furniture, high-quality fabrics, and beautiful parquet floors, all contributing to a serene atmosphere.

Another mansion houses the two restaurants. Martin, run by Chef Géraud Dupuis, offers a simple and convivial cuisine, while Les Chemins, led by Michelin-starred Chef Romain Meder, serves delightful plant-based dishes. The 450m2 spa, clad in wood and located in the former woodshed, offers a full range of treatments, including Susanne Kaufmann skincare, Japanese baths, a sauna, a hammam, and a well-equipped gym. After a swim in the large heated pool surrounded by hedges, take a leisurely stroll through the extraordinary gardens designed by landscape architect Jacques Wirtz: between the sublime rose garden, centuries-old trees, permaculture vegetable garden, boxwood topiary, pond, and meadows, you’ll be thoroughly enchanted.

The extra touch: The Table d’Hôtes with its period fireplace is perfect for gathering friends, sharing a glass of wine, and enjoying shared dishes.

Domaine de Primard, Route Départementale 16, 28260 Guainville

© Domaine de Primard by Gaelle Le Boulicaut.

It is said to be one of the most charming villages in Vaucluse. What is certain is that Crillon-le-Brave offers a stunning view of Mont Ventoux, just like the eponymous hotel: a collection of 17th and 18th-century buildings owned by the Maison Pariente hotel group. The décor of its 34 rooms and suites, ranging from 25 to 80 m2 and designed by Charles Zana, feels like a natural choice: vintage furniture, wood and terracotta floors, linen fabrics, and light, soft colors bathed in sunlight give these spaces their contemporary charm. Provence weaves its way between the terraces, draws in the scents of olive groves and vineyards, and leads you to the beautiful pool.

As the day ends, retreat to the bar’s vaulted ceiling or, better yet, to its terrace to watch the sunset. Then, head to the Table du Ventoux where Chef Thomas Lesage, a new addition to the team, brings his traveler’s touch to a bistro-style menu featuring raw, local, and seasonal ingredients.

The extra touch: The spa, located in the former stables, offers made-in-France treatments by AIME and organic products by Tata Harper, perfect for trying with a partner!

Hôtel Crillon Le Brave, Place de l'Église, 84410 Crillon le Brave, France

© Hôtel Crillon Le Brave by Mr.Tripper

The Château de Versailles as if you were there? But you are, as this exclusive address from the Airelles group is located within its grounds, at the foot of the Cent Marches staircase. Situated in the former apartments of the King's financial controller, this townhouse, built in the 18th century by Jules Hardouin-Mansart, is a remarkable work by decorator Christophe Tollemer, recreating period furnishings and fabrics, woodwork, and chandeliers in each room, flawlessly evoking the past. The 14 suites are spread around the terrace, with some accessible via the monumental staircase. Every obvious sign of modernity is hidden—TVs, tablets, phones, and Bluetooth speakers are discreetly concealed—just in case Louis XVI shows up! The Valmont spa with its stunning pool, guarded by imposing busts, is irresistible.

The art of French living extends to the two lavish dining rooms on the ground floor, lit by candlelight in the evening. Guests are invited on Saturdays to experience the Grand Banquet by Alain Ducasse, promising a Grand Siècle gastronomic experience: unique and unforgettable.

The extra touch: Included in the rate is a private tour of the château before or after public hours—a truly exceptional privilege!

Hôtel du Grand Contrôle, 12 Rue de l'Indépendance Américaine, 78000 Versailles