Luxury weekend in Provence: charming hotels

Weekend in Provence: experience a chic and authentic escape between the sea and the mountains. Fancy a short break that blends the good life, fine dining, and picture-perfect scenery? In Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, on the legendary Route Napoléon, Le Relais Impérial offers a charming base for exploring Grasse, the hilltop villages, and the French Riviera. With cozy rooms, refined bistro cuisine, and easy access to the region's treasures, everything is in place for a perfect weekend, whether you're traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends.

In short

• Ideal base: Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, 15 minutes from Grasse and 40 minutes from the sea.

• Charming stay: 28 rooms, cozy atmosphere, two restaurants and terraces.

• Ready-made itineraries: perfumes in Grasse, Gorges du Loup, hilltop villages, beach.

• Smart services: parking, extended opening hours, personalized advice for your visits.

• Bonus: spaces for weddings and private events in a peaceful setting.

Le Relais Impérial, your charming address in Provence

Located in the heart of the Grasse region, Le Relais Impérial combines authenticity and comfort in a charming house where you instantly feel at home. It's an ideal base for exploring Provence without sacrificing tranquility: the sea, mountains, and iconic villages are all within easy reach.

“Between the frenetic energy of the azure and the tranquility of the Pre-Alps, here we slow down, we breathe, we savor.”

• Discover the spirit of the house on the official website of the Relais Impérial .

• To delve into the soul of the place, read the history of the house and the family .

Rooms with views and details that matter

The hotel offers 28 rooms in 5 categories, designed to suit every type of trip: romantic getaway, business trip, or family vacation. Some rooms feature a terrace overlooking the Grasse hills, while others offer a bathtub, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. The attention to detail in the bedding, lighting, and materials enhances the feeling of comfort and privacy.

• Browse the different categories and availability on the Rooms page .

At the table: bistro fare and wood-fired pizzeria

On site, there are two distinct atmospheres: a bistro-style restaurant that puts a modern twist on French classics using local ingredients, and a wood-fired pizzeria serving crispy pizzas and convivial grilled dishes. Both have terraces for enjoying the outdoors, at lunchtime and in the evening.

• Need practical information (opening hours, services, parking, reception)? Check the Services page .

Attentive welcome and homey atmosphere

Marion and Alice cultivate a warm and welcoming atmosphere: personalized advice on walks, great local spots, and clever itineraries tailored to the season. Here, hospitality is experienced simply and generously.

• Ready to set your dates? Book directly via the booking platform .

A turnkey weekend getaway: itineraries from Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey

Day 1 – Scents of Grasse and hilltop villages

• Morning: Head to Grasse (15 min). Visit the International Perfume Museum, stroll through the old town, and discover the art of creating your own fragrance in a workshop. To plan your visit, the Grasse Tourist Office website is a helpful resource: grasse-tourisme.fr .

• Lunch: sunny terrace in the historic centre or return to the Relais for a bistronomic lunch.

• Afternoon: Head towards Gourdon (approx. 25 min), listed among the most beautiful villages in France, offering a magnificent panorama of the Mediterranean. Continue through the Gorges du Loup for an easy and refreshing hike; maps and nature recommendations can be found on the website of the Préalpes d'Azur Regional Natural Park.

• Evening: dinner by the wood fire at the hotel, then starry skies of the Pre-Alps.

Seasonal tip: From January to March, the Mimosa Route paints the French Riviera a vibrant yellow. Route and bloom times can be found at routedumimosa.com .

Day 2 – Between sparkling sea and bucolic Pre-Alps

Chic beach option: Cannes (≈40 min) or Antibes (≈50 min) for a stroll along the seafront, a Provençal market, the Picasso Museum, followed by an aperitif in the sun. Find events and must-see spots on the Côte d'Azur France website: cotedazurfrance.fr .

Active nature option: hiking loop in the Pre-Alps (Caussols plateau, Audibergue), via ferrata or mountain biking depending on the season. In summer, opt for early morning departures; in spring and autumn, take advantage of ideal temperatures and fewer crowds.

Themed experiences for a tailor-made stay

Romantic getaway

• Room with terrace for sunrise over the hills.

• Bistronomic dinner by candlelight, followed by a quiet after-dinner drink.

• A fragrant morning in Grasse with a workshop for two.

• Sunset stroll in Gourdon, unforgettable panoramic photos.

Family weekend

• Short, easy hikes in the Gorges du Loup, picnic by the water.

• Fun visits to perfumeries and discovery workshops adapted for children.

• Wood-fired pizzas and artisanal ice cream to reward the troops.

• Medieval villages to explore like a treasure hunt: gates, fountains, ramparts.

Local produce and know-how

• Provençal markets (Grasse, Valbonne, Antibes) for olive oils, herbs, cheeses.

• Tastings at local artisans' shops (confectionery, honey, biscuits).

• "Balcony overlooking the sea" routes to enjoy the olive groves and dry stone walls.

When to leave and how long to stay?

• Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October): mild climates, ideal light, moderate crowds.

• Summer: long days and swimming, but heat and crowds on the coast; leave early, favour the hinterland in the afternoon.

• Winter: crystal-clear atmosphere, often lower prices, mimosa in bloom on the coast (Jan-Mar).

In terms of budget, it varies depending on the season, room category, and activities chosen. To optimize your trip, book early during peak season, compare room categories, and aim for a 2- to 3-night stay to alternate between the sea and the mountains without rushing.

Practical tips for a smooth weekend

• Access: Nice airport (approximately 50–60 minutes depending on traffic), Cannes/Antibes TGV train station, then by car. The Route Napoléon (N85) offers a scenic drive.

• Mobility: a car makes day trips easier; carpooling and buses exist but remain less flexible for villages and hikes.

• Timing: start early, have lunch outside of peak times, and choose scenic routes to avoid coastal roads that are congested in the summer.

• Reservations: restaurants, perfume workshops and private beaches in summer must be booked in advance, just like your room.

Celebrating an event in the heart of Provence

The Relais Impérial welcomes weddings, birthdays, baptisms, and business meetings. Its adaptable spaces, personalized service, and on-site catering simplify the planning process. Its tranquility, charm, and accessibility make it an inspiring venue for gatherings with loved ones or teams.

• Want to find out more? Discover the dedicated offer and contact the team via the Events page .

FAQ

Where to stay for a weekend in Provence between the sea and the mountains?

Choose a location in the French Riviera hinterland to enjoy both the beaches and the Prealps. In Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, Le Relais Impérial combines tranquility with quick access to Grasse (15 min) and the sea (approximately 40–50 min), on-site restaurants, and cozy rooms. From here, you can easily explore Gourdon, the Gorges du Loup, Cannes, or Antibes while avoiding the hustle and bustle of the coastal resorts. A "slow" base that optimizes your time, especially for a short stay.

What can I do in 2 days around Grasse without rushing?

Day 1: Historic Grasse, perfume museum, olfactory workshop, then drive to Gourdon and a nature break in the Gorges du Loup. Day 2: Choose between a morning at the beach (Cannes/Antibes) and return via a hilltop village, or a long hike in the Prealps (Caussols, Audibergue). By staying in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, you reduce travel time and enjoy a variety of experiences: culture, panoramic views, sea, and gastronomy.

What is the best season for a romantic weekend in Provence?

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer the perfect combination: mild temperatures, golden light, blooming flowers, and less crowded spots. Summer is appealing for its long evenings and swimming, but expect crowds on the coast. Winter reveals an intimate Provence, with clear skies and often lower prices, plus the added bonus of mimosa blooming along the coast from January to March.

Is it possible to enjoy Provence without a car for a short stay?

Yes, but exploring the hinterland requires some planning. Arrive by train (Cannes/Antibes) or plane (Nice), then take a taxi or transfer to your hotel. Plan your days to be more focused: Grasse and its museums, guided tours, and walks through the villages. For the gorges and some hamlets, a car is the most practical option. The Relais team can help you plan accessible routes, shuttles, or activities.

Key points to remember

• A charming and peaceful address, perfect for exploring the area between the sea and the Pre-Alps.

• Cozy rooms, two restaurants and terraces to savor every moment.

• Specific itineraries: perfumes, hilltop villages, gorges, beaches.

• Seasons: spring and autumn are preferred; summer and winter have specific advantages.

• Private and professional events possible in an inspiring setting.

• Ready to book your Provençal getaway? Choose your dates on the booking platform or explore our rooms .