Visualization exercise: Imagine soaking in a hot tub overlooking Mont Blanc, or lounging in a glamorous suite with a private spa by the Mediterranean Sea. It’s the ultimate dream come true at these exceptional spots that tick all the boxes for a zen yet indulgent stay. The only downside? You’ll get hooked.
In the mountains: Jiva Hill Resort
For whom: Nature lovers dreaming of wide-open spaces.
The pitch: Located in Crozet, near Geneva, this Relais & Châteaux hotel with a hot tub lives up to its name—Jiva means "life" in Sanskrit. Set amid 45 hectares of greenery, the resort offers breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and the Jura Mountains. The decor inspiration? Cosmopolitan. The owners, design enthusiasts, blended the ambiance of South African lodges with the clean lines of Nordic bungalows. The result? A warm mix where wood and metal blend seamlessly with the surrounding nature. Opened in 2007, the hotel recently underwent a facelift, adding 20 new rooms for a total of 50 cozy accommodations, plus two restaurants and a bar.
Room to target: Request one of the four lodges bathed in light, which are essentially hotel suites with a private hot tub on a 70 m² terrace—just for you and your partner in crime. Want more? Head to the spa for exceptional Sothys treatments.
We love: A 9-hole golf course, two tennis courts, and the opportunity to try water skiing and wakeboarding at the nearby water sports center.
Jiva Hill Resort, Rte d'Harée, 01170 Crozet. From €236.
In Burgundy: Côte Saint-Jacques & Spa
For whom: Foodies who want to combine gastronomy with relaxation.
The pitch: Just 1.5 hours from Paris, this 5-star spa hotel on the banks of the Yonne River boasts one of France's best restaurants, run by the same family for generations. In 2023, chef Jean-Michel Lorain passed the torch to his nephew, Alexandre Bondoux, who is taking the two Michelin stars (plus the green one) to new heights. The decor is all about elegance: noble materials and refined furniture create a cozy, timeless atmosphere that makes you feel like royalty.
Room to target: The Exception Suite, offering 60 m² of pure comfort and a large terrace overlooking the river. The cherry on top? A private spa for an ultra-private me-time session after a gourmet feast. It’s the perfect love nest for a romantic weekend.
We love: All-inclusive packages that combine a dreamy night, Michelin-starred meals, and spa access.
Côte Saint-Jacques & Spa, 14 Faubourg de Paris, 89300 Joigny. From €297.
In Paris: Cinq Codet
For whom: Eternal Parisians who never leave their beloved city.
The pitch: Nestled in the chic 7th arrondissement, a former telephone exchange has been transformed by Jean-Philippe Nuel (Lutetia in Paris, Baccarat in Dubai) into a modern hospitality gem. The 1930s building now shines with light wood, sleek lines, and curated art pieces scattered throughout its interiors.
Room to target: The 60 rooms and 7 suites are cozy luxury havens, some designed as duplexes with impressive 5-meter-high ceilings. The standout? The Spa Dome Suite, on the top floor, boasting private terraces with a small garden, a hot tub, and jaw-dropping views of the Dome des Invalides and the Eiffel Tower.
We love: As night falls, head to the hotel’s lounge bar in the patio for a signature cocktail.
Cinq Codet, 5 Rue Louis Codet, Paris 7e. From €403.
In the South: Cap Antibes Beach Hotel
For whom: Glamour lovers devoted to the French Riviera.
The pitch: Affiliated with Relais & Châteaux, this revamped 5-star hotel is among the chicest spots on the French Riviera. Under Nicolas Saltiel (Hôtel de La Ponche in Saint-Tropez), the seaside haven takes cues from Californian aesthetics, with white and pink hues complementing the azure waters. Featuring 35 rooms and suites—some with private gardens or stunning bay views—it boasts a private sandy beach, an infinity pool, and a spa. The culinary experience is unparalleled, with Baba, helmed by chef Assaf Granit, and Les Pêcheurs, a Michelin-starred restaurant since 2007, led by Nicolas Rondelli.
Room to target: The iconic Le Cap Suite, a 66 m² haven with a terrace overhanging the waves and a hot tub with views of the Lérins Islands.
We love: Between Cannes and Nice, it’s the ultimate spot for luxurious Mediterranean vibes.
Cap Antibes Beach Hotel, 10 Boulevard Maréchal Juin, 06160 Cap d'Antibes. From €730.
In the vineyards: Domaine de Verchant
For whom: Epicureans passionate about wine.
The pitch: Surrounded by enchanting gardens near Montpellier, a former Roman farmhouse has been reimagined as a 5-star Relais & Châteaux hotel with rustic-chic charm. Guests unwind with heated pools, ultra-comfy sunbeds, divine massages from Valmont, Kos, and Biologique Recherche at the 2000 m² spa, and gourmet delights at La Plage restaurant nestled among the vines.
Room to target: One of the 50 m² Prestige Suites, featuring a round 2-meter bed, a large terrace with park views, and a heated whirlpool.
We love: Besides its upscale accommodations, Verchant boasts 16 hectares of organically farmed vineyards and two cellars where guests can indulge in grand cru tastings.
Domaine de Verchant, 1 Boulevard Philippe Lamour, 34170 Castelnau-le-Lez. From €213.
