Surplage Hotel Cavalière ★★★★

This four-star hotel boasts an enviable location along the French Riviera, directly on the beach. It means you can start each day with a stroll along the golden sandy shoreline of Cavalière Beach or a dip in the sea before heading back to the hotel for breakfast.

It’s also halfway between the towns of Le Lavandou and Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer. The former is known for its sprawling lavender fields and charming town centre while the latter offers secluded beaches and scenic coastal trails. So there are also plenty of activities available in the surrounding area, from hiking to water sports and boat excursions.

At the hotel, check into a deluxe room with terrace and wake up each morning with a coffee outside on the balcony while taking in the beautiful sea view. Rooms are relatively spacious and well-equipped with a chic neutral decor. They are often filled with light, creating a serene space in which to relax.

Dating back to the 1940s, the building is elegant yet contemporary in style. One of the key features is the Surplage Hotel Restaurant which serves Mediterranean cuisine on a charming wicker-shaded terrace directly on the beach. For those who prefer barbecue, The Surplage Grill serves grilled, smoked or braised meat and fish.

There are also several bars at the hotel. For drinks, cocktails and gourmet snacks, visit The Beach Bar. Or for healthy drinks, homemade ice cream and sorbets, it’s the Juice & Ice Cream bar. Excellent continental breakfasts with a varied spread are also available onsite.

When you are not exploring the beach and nearby villages, there is plenty to do at the hotel too. Swim in the heated indoor swimming pool, have a fitness session at the gym and for families there is even a kids’ club.