On a hot summer road trip through the South of France, I booked a last-minute stay at Hotel Cap Estel. The five-star property is set on a secluded peninsula along the French Riviera near Èze-sur-Mer and Monaco. The sprawling grounds feature expertly manicured gardens, a private beach, and a stunning infinity pool overlooking the sea. More than just a beautiful property, Cap Estel is home to two restaurants, including the Michelin-starred La Table de Patrick Raingeard, and a spa complete with sea-view sauna. My husband and I were looking to splurge on a romantic hotel with incredible views of the Mediterranean. Hotel Cap Estel delivered—and then some.
We arrived early in the afternoon eager to relax. The maître d’hôtel greeted us warmly, treated us to a tour of the grounds, then showed us to our room. The room was of course beautiful, but we didn’t understand just how lucky we were until we pulled back the flowy linen curtains. To say the picture from our window was breathtaking is somehow a huge understatement. Stepping out onto the balcony, we found ourselves perched on a rugged rock face with the blue waters of the Mediterranean swirling and sloshing just below. We stood there—mesmerized—with the strong cool breeze on our faces. After admiring the sea views, we popped our welcome bottle of champagne then made our way to the pool.
Infinity Pool Overlooking the Mediterranean
Of all the wonderful spots on the hotel grounds, the infinity pool may have been our favorite. We spent much of our time by the pool drinking Aperol spritzes and watching the sailboats drift lazily by.
Rooms – La Mer
We stayed in the ‘La Mer’ room (also called ‘Deluxe Room with Balcony’). The room is built into the cliff overlooking the Cap d’Ail Bay and is one of just three La Mer rooms on the property. Large sliding glass doors open to the private balcony overlooking the sea. The views are unbelievable and the room is spacious and well-stocked. I highly recommend staying in one of these rooms. And don’t forget room service breakfast on the balcony!
Private Beach
During the time we weren’t by the pool, we splashed in the sea from the private beach below our balcony. With rocky walls on either side and a limited number of chairs, the beach felt much more intimate than your typical French Riviera beach club.
Although our stay at Cap Estel was far too brief, it was one we will never forget. If you are looking for a honeymoon-worthy hotel in the South of France, look no further than Hotel Cap Estel.
