If there is a place that lends itself to a romantic hideaway, it is Chateau Le Cagnard without any doubt

The French Riviera does have its fair share of world-renowned hotel icons. After all, who has not heard and possibly dreamed of staying at Hotel du Cap Eden Roc, Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat, the world famous Le Negresco in Nice or perhaps Monte Carlo’s Hotel de Paris.

While there is no question, you’d likely put a stay at one of these places into the ‘unforgettable luxury hotel indulgence’ pocket, the French Riviera has no shortage of many more exciting places to stay.

If you are looking for a more intimate place, Chateau Le Cagnard, a Small Luxury Hotels of the World hotel, is a truly romantic medieval hideaway located in a more hidden corner of the French Riviera.

The Location

Located just over 15 minutes from Nice airport, Chateau Le Cagnard is perched on top of the rocks of Haute-de-Cagnes, one of those strikingly beautiful hilltop villages of the French Rivera offering jaw dropping panoramic views over the craggy coastline across to Cap d’Antibes. It’s far enough away to offer total tranquillity and intimacy, but close enough to hit all the local hotspots such as Nice and Cannes in less than 30 minutes.

The lower, more modern parts of Cagnes-sur-Mer might not be among the most exiting locations that define the charm of the French Riviera. But once you start approaching the historic upper Haute-de-Cagnes, you are drawn back into the world of enchanting medieval hilltop villages.

Wandering through the steep, narrow, and winding streets, it becomes obvious how this place has attracted artists like Renoir and Modigliani along with Greta Garbo and Brigitte Bardot who all spend time here during certain periods of their life.

How to arrive at Chateau le Cagnard

First things first. If you are planning to stay at Chateau Le Cagnard and travel with your own car (or a rental car) you need to be aware access to all Haute de Cagnes and the hotel itself has its challenges.

Driving the narrow streets are not for the faint hearted, the village is partly pedestrianized, parking at the hilltop village is restricted to few areas, and indeed not possible directly at the hotel. You will therefore need to park at one of the three public parking lots in the lower Cagnes-sur-Mer and use the hotel’s shuttle for the final stretch. Which is easy enough as all you need to do is calling the hotel and let them know you need to be picked up. They will shuttle you at any time you need to get to the car or back to the hotel individually, with no need to prior arrangements.

If you arrive by taxi from the airport or train station in Nice, your drop-off point is just a minute’s walk from the hotel. You should still call ahead to be helped with your luggage if you wish to be helped with your bags on the cobble-stoned alleyway.

What it’s like checking into Chateau Le Cagnard

As you will quite likely use the hotel shuttle, you will be ushered into the hotel by your friendly driver who will also take care of your luggage.

Otherwise, you might have to look twice to find the right entrance. The imposing 13th century stone dwelling, which forms part of the historic city call, instead of a grand entrance can be accessed through two small doors on both sides of the building, and if you take the one at the upper road finding your way to the reception can be a bit tricky at first – though once you are there, you will be taken care of and pampered by the lovely staff throughout your stay!

Rooms and facilities at Chateau Le Cagnard

All of the 30 rooms and suites – distributed over different blocks of the 13th century mansion, and few are in adjacent buildings in the village – had been carefully renovated just over 10 years ago.

Each is individually designed and will offer all the modern amenities you would expect from a Small Luxury Hotel of the World property. Yet they still manage to draw you back to a bygone area with antique furnishings, wooden beams, and low ceilings (at least in our room).

The quicky bathroom even featured an arc but otherwise was spacious with floor heating, a modern shower, and fluffy towels.

Some of the suites have spacious balconies and terraces while most rooms have at least a small balcony offering beautiful views over the coast (and few over the village).

Leisure amenities and services

Though it is a chateau, space is limited and there is no dedicated spa area. Don’t fear. Should you crave a massage or other beauty treatments, all will be arranged in-room.

There is no huge pool area either, but you would probably not expect this booking into a medieval castle build into the walls of a historic hilltop village. That said, should you wish to spend some leisure time on the lounger, you are provided for this as well. There is even a small indoor pool area complete with massage jets, swimming against the current and a swan’s neck. Plus, you can order from a small pool menu.

Dining at Chateau Le Cagnard

When you visit during the warmer months of the year, there is a good chance you can sit on the lovely terrace overlooking the beautiful coastline. However, don’t fear if not. The gourmet restaurant is rightly proud of its sliding ceiling that allows you to dine under the stars even if you can’t secure a table on the terrace. When it is closed, it reveals the 200 hand painted panels by artist Philippe Roberti.

The seasonal menu changes every couple of weeks and is based on what produce is on offer at the local markets. Thus expect the food to be typical for Provence along with a good selection of fish and seafood from the nearby coast.

Restaurant Chateau Le Cagnard is open to the public and quite popular, so make sure to book your table ahead.

Final thoughts on staying at Chateau Le Cagnard

This romantic, medieval hotel is perfect for couples, but children are very welcome too and the fairytale village offers a perfect playground for kids and parents alike.