Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2024 list of our favorite resorts in France.
This year’s World’s Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2024, as destinations around the world. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year’s honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.
France may be home to one of the world’s most romantic cities, but iBestTravel readers know that there’s plenty more to discover beyond Paris. Whether they’re located in the countryside near Versailles or along the Riviera, this year’s winners for the best resorts in France won accolades from readers eager to explore all corners of the country. These resorts draw inspiration from their stunning surroundings, which add layers of distinction to their design, landscaping, and — perhaps most importantly — their magnificent restaurants and bars.
Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — sharing their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.
Ranked this year at No. 4, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic is emblematic of all the winners for 2021. “This is one of those amazing, historic hotels that is just so Cannes,” said one voter of the iconic spot that’s a landmark along the French Riviera. “It’s right on the Croisette,” noted another traveler, who raved about the great energy of being in the heart of the atmospheric seaside city.
However, Le Majestic wasn’t the only Mediterranean spot that captivated iBestTravel readers. No. 3 Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, a Four Seasons Hotel, received high marks from voters this year, as did No. 5 Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc.
Readers particularly appreciated the location of No. 2 Waldorf Astoria Versailles — Trianon Palace, which is well situated on seven acres of parkland in the famed royal retreat. “So often, travelers only visit the Palace of Versailles,” said one fan of this Waldorf Astoria. “But the town is definitely worth a trip — and it’s only a short walk from the hotel.”
This year’s top hotel offers an inspiration for discovering another side of France. Located near Avignon and the celebrated vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, No. 1 Hôtel Crillon le Brave was regarded as the best resort hotel in France, according to iBestTravel readers. Read on to discover the reasons behind this acclaim.
1. Hôtel Crillon le Brave, Crillon-le-Brave
Readers simply loved Hôtel Crillon le Brave, with many voters expressing their desire to return as soon as possible. And why not? Set amid lush green hills and breathtaking medieval scenery, the Provençal retreat features just 34 rooms and suites overlooking the Rhône Valley and Mont Ventoux. While the property dates back to the 17th century, the most recent interior design refresh — by architect and designer Charles Zana — introduced a touch of modernity that beautifully complements the idyllic landscape. Furthermore, the luxurious resort is innovating on the culinary front, with the addition of chef Adrien Brunet, who oversees both on-site restaurants, La Madeleine and La Table du Ventoux. The resort’s Spa des Écuries, nestled in an 18th-century stone house and often adorned with overflowing bouquets of lavender, is another highly cherished amenity.
Score: 97.00
More information: crillonlebrave.com
2. Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace, Versailles
Score: 95.25
More information: waldorfastoria.com
3. Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, a Four Seasons Hotel, St.-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Score: 93.76
More information: fourseasons.com
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4. Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, Cannes
Score: 92.00
More information: hotelsbarriere.com
5. Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Cap d’Antibes
Score: 91.75
More information: oetkercollection.com