Château de Théoule: A Seaside Castle on the Esterel Coast

Château de Théoule is one of the most characterful hotels on the Côte d'Azur, a fairy-tale castle that began life as an 18th-century soap works before its towers and crenellations rose on the waterfront of Théoule-sur-Mer, where the fiery red rocks of the Esterel massif tumble into the sea just west of Cannes. A private beach and spa complete the escape.

The dining faces the Mediterranean. Mareluna is the château's restaurant, where chef Francesco Fezza blends Italian, French and Japanese influences into authentic Mediterranean cuisine; and the seaside La Plage Blanche serves seasonal, local flavours in a chic, relaxed setting through the summer, under chef Sébastien Lapluie.

For a characterful, seaside Riviera stay, Château de Théoule is a standout.

Planning the Esterel? Book your stay with me for preferred-partner perks.