Sitting between the red lava peaks of the Massif de l’Estérel and the densely forested hills of the Massif des Maures, St-Raphaël has been the muse for artists, writers, and composers alike for centuries. Opulent Belle Époque-era villas and grand hotels offer the sophistication seen further along the Côte d’Azur in places like Cannes and Saint-Tropez, yet Saint-Raphaël has forged a perfect harmonisation between this new-age charisma and traditional old-world charm, in a city offering the wide beaches and coastal ambience of its neighbours at a fraction of the price.
Arriving on recommendation of a peaceful pace of life and an impeccable climate, Dumas, Maupassant, and Berlioz came from Paris to experience the wonders of Saint-Raphaël. Its picturesque façade and glistening waters were the inspiration for Gounod’s composition of ‘Romeo et Juliet’ in 1866, imbuing the place with a sense of artistry and pure serenity. And laying under the blue skies of the French Riviera in the heart of a Mediterranean pine forest is Le Domaine de l’Estérel; a true haven of peace and greenery dedicated to your wellbeing and relaxation.
Le Domaine de l’Estérel is a charmingly quaint retreat housing 95 well-appointed rooms and suites, all of which boast a private balcony, patio, or terrace looking out over the pine forest and lush landscapes of the Var. The hot and cold breakfast buffet is a complimentary exclusive to VeryChic, nourishing you with the finest of continental cuisine. Watch as the space transforms into La Pinède Restaurant, where the chef has designed delectable dishes such as grilled seabass and lemongrass, paired with the finest regional wines.
Stay in the very heart of nature at Saint-Raphaël, where you can immerse yourself in the surrounds of the Golf International de l’Estérel or enjoy a dip in one of the hotel’s two pools nestled under the pine trees. In the quest for ultimate relaxation, make the most of the hydromassage baths or the rejuvenating heat of the sauna, or choose from the wellbeing programme with treatments such as seaweed body wraps and candlelit massages to truly unwind.
Exceptionally located in the Mediterranean hinterland in one of the most attractive regions of France, enjoy natural, spectacular settings along the coastline in a balmy climate bordered by the sea and home to a rich historical heritage. Be sure to venture out to Saint-Raphaël’s uniquely charming neighbouring towns, such as Fréjus and Agay, to delve into the wonders of the French Riviera.