Van der Valk Hotel Le Catalogne ★★★★

Wake to the warm Mediterranean breeze gently blowing back the curtains of your balcony. The silky soft sheets of your double bed have enveloped you in a cosy cocoon but, if you can, untangle yourself and move into the hydro-jet walk-in shower. After a refreshing start to the day, head down to the sun kissed terrace; nestled quietly in the beautiful private landscaped garden, and treat yourself to a sumptuous breakfast. The expansive buffet presents sugar dusted French pastries, an array of fresh fruit, melt in the mouth scrambled eggs, and so much more!

The hotel is situated in the heart of a verdant flowering garden, fringed with palms. Inhale the aromatic smell of lavender as you leisurely stroll around the grounds. If you stumble upon the sparkling turquoise pool, why not take a dip in the cooling waters! Alternatively, catch a tan on the comfortable loungers and utilise the stocked bar that offers exotic cocktails and velvety ice cream. If you want to be closer to the sandy shores, the neighbouring summer beach club Bleu & Blanc allows you to sit, feet in the sand, on plush deckchairs. From here, under the welcome shade of a parasol, admire gorgeous views of the Mediterranean Sea.

The sister hotel, Saint-Aygulf, is home to the Martinus restaurant. Here, you can dine on exquisite gastronomic creations and try traditional French cuisine exhibiting a creative flair. Taste the ocean with an interesting fusion of salmon with vanilla, mango and organic olive oil or try sea bream tartar with star anise sauce. Other divine plates of food feature pan fried scallops and confit tomatoes drizzled in a saffron sauce and freshly caught lobster! This refined restaurant overlooks mesmerising vistas of the azure blue sea and vast golden grain sands.