- Hôtel Montmorency (Carcassonne, Languedoc-Roussillon; www.hotelmontmorency.com; tel. 04-68-11-96-70): This hotel is only a few steps away from the entrance to the medieval Cité, yet it feels like a refuge with a swimming pool, Carita Spa, and imaginatively designed rooms. Somehow this comfortable place manages to combine the facilities of a four-star hotel with two-star prices.
- Hôtel du Palais (Montpellier, Languedoc-Roussillon; www.hoteldupalais-montpellier.fr; tel. 04-67-60-47-38): In the Old Town, in a labyrinth of narrow streets, this hotel dates from the late 18th century but has been modernized. The rooms are cozily arranged, and the hotel has a special French charm. It's one of the most historic hotels in town, and the bedrooms are relatively large.
- Hôtel d'Arlatan (Arles, Provence; www.hotel-arlatan.fr; tel. 04-90-93-56-66): At reasonable rates, you can stay in one of Provence's most charming cities at the former residence of the comtes d'Arlatan de Beaumont, built in the 15th century on the ruins of an old palace. Near the historic place du Forum, this small hotel has been run by the same family since 1920.
- Hôtel Le Mouillage (St-Tropez, Western Côte; www.hotelmouillage.fr; tel. 04-94-97-53-19): In the dizzyingly expensive resort town of St-Tropez, it's refreshing to find this reasonably priced boutique hotel. Stylish accommodations are scattered around a plant-filled terrace and pool where you'll be woken by the sound of a trickling garden fountain rather than the St-Trop party crowd. Free on-site parking is an added bonus.
- Hôtel Villa La Tour (Nice, French Riviera; www.villa-la-tour.com; tel. 04-93-80-08-15) is a former convent from the 18th century which has been converted into an atmospheric little hotel in the center of Nice, a 10-minute walk from the beach. Bedrooms, for the most part, open onto views of the Old Town, a few with balconies. A little roof garden is also open to guests. Its younger sister, Hôtel Villa Rivoli, is slightly more expensive, but worth every penny.
- La Place Hôtel (Antibes, French Riviera; www.la-place-hotel.com; tel. 04-97-21-03-11): A 5-minute walk from the marché provençal (marketplace), this well-run hotel is the best choice for central Antibes. With its tasteful contemporary decor and delicious French brasserie food, it has already made its name since opening in 2009.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
