From the northern beaches of Normandy down to the southern tip of Cap d’Antibes, France’s 18 regions boast more than 200 native grape varieties, 246 types of cheese, and roughly 200,000 square miles of incomparable terroir. As Americans rush back to Europe this summer, the idyllic resorts of France are destined to get quite a bit of attention. Thus, it seems only logical that we turn to iBestTravel readers to scout their favorite hotels in France for the upcoming vacances.

How Voting Works

Every year for the World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 iBestTravel readers completed the 2023 survey, marking a significant increase over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties.

Hotels were classified based on their location and amenities, and they were rated on the following criteria:

• Rooms/facilities
• Location
• Service
• Food
• Value

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating ranging from excellent to poor. The final scores represent averages of these responses.

What Readers Loved

This year, readers were particularly enamored with the northern region of the country. They highlighted the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa (No. 3), a property that earned praise for its Biologique Recherche spa treatments and exquisite dining at La Bellevue restaurant. Improving one position from last year is the Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace (No. 4). The reviews were filled with superlatives, with enthusiastic guests describing their experiences as “exceptional” and “awesome.” Such acclaim is perhaps justified by the impeccable service, 15 majestic suites, and a Guerlain Spa.

In a notable win, we venture south to Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur for the No. 1 hotel this year, which ousts last year’s favorite, Coquillade Provence Resort & Spa. This distinction goes to the stunning Hôtel Crillon Le Brave, which boasts the highest reader ratings for 2023.

The Winner

Hôtel Crillon Le Brave

Nestled in Provence, the Hôtel Crillon Le Brave is remarkably stunning, achieving a score of 96.84 in this year’s iBestTravel reader survey. “The place is outstanding,” one fan declared. The hotel is also praised for its “delicious food with a talented chef,” Adrien Brunet, known for his previous work at the Saint James Paris. The hotel’s restaurants, La Madeleine and La Table du Ventoux, serve inventive Provençal cuisine, such as grilled fish and foie gras, which embody the essence of French country cooking. The latter restaurant will open for leisurely lunch overlooking lavender fields, providing “the best view ever,” according to guests. Additionally, the bar, housed in the oldest maison on the property, offers innovative cocktails and a cozy atmosphere for relaxation.

Hôtel Crillon Le Brave is truly a unique destination.

The Full List

1. Hôtel Crillon Le Brave: Crillon-le-Brave, France

Reader Score: 96.84

2. Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc: Cap d’Antibes, France

Reader Score: 96.80

3. Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa: Champillon, France

Reader Score: 96.36

4. Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace: Versailles, France

Reader Score: 95.05

5. Airelles Gordes, La Bastide: Gordes, France

Reader Score: 94.31