DK Travel : Provence and Côte d'Azur

Provence’s top sights span the region’s rich and varied history, from Roman arenas, isolated abbeys, and the palace of the medieval popes, to the more recent opulence of the belle époque era and the glamorous resorts beloved of the 20th-century jet set. Sunsoaked beaches, pretty villages nestled among lavender fields and a mountainous hinterland have inspired generations of artists, and continue to enchant every visitor to the area.

Le Cagnard, Cagnes-sur-Mer

Only a few minutes’ drive from the hurly burly of the Riviera, Le Cagnard is a luxury inn, with lovely rooms in a medieval building, sweeping views and a fine restaurant. All this, and it’s located in a pretty village literally drowning in bougainvillea.
Le Cagnard, Cagnessur-Mer

The restaurant of this hideaway hotel is highly regarded for dishes such as black truffle lasagne.
Le Caribou

First-rate fish and game has been served here since 1945.
Le Castellet

The only access to this glorious perched village is via two gates in its 13th-century walls. Within, steep paved streets climb tortuously to the feudal castle. Views over olive groves to the sea are outstanding.
Le Cesar’s Palace, Cannes

This is Cannes imitating Las Vegas, imitating ancient Rome. A cavernous club, with a relaxed door policy and live rap, dance and groove artists at weekends.
Le Chantecler

Palatial setting within the Hotel Negresco for Alain Llorca’s renowned Provençale-inspired haute cuisine (see Le Chantecler, Nice).
Le Chantecler, Nice

Within the palatial Negresco hotel (see Le Negresco, Nice), Le Chantecler boasts Regency decor and wood-panelling. The taste is exquisite, as is young chef Alain Llorca’s imaginative food, such as green bean salad with light cream, topped with caviar and warm foie gras with mango sorbet (see Le Chantecler).
Le Clos de la Violette, Aix-en-Provence

Superb restaurant in which chef Jean-Marc Banzo uses the best Provençal ingredients to create memorable dishes (see Clos de la Violette, Aix).
Le Cocotier, Toulon

Given the name (cocotier means coconut palm), it’s no surprise that this spot specializes in sunshine sounds, whether from stage or turntable. Dress is smart, the atmosphere welcoming.
Le Comptoir

Fashionable folk eat excellent Niçoise fare in trendy Art Deco surroundings.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under €100
- €100–150
- €150–250
- €250–350
- over €350
Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €30
- €30–€40
- €40–€50
- €50–€60
- over €60