It’s not hard to understand why La Mauresque is St-Raphaël’s most sought-after hotel. Expect complimentary fruit bowls on arrival, free mineral water, and a pillow menu, all at prices that won’t break the bank. Chichi guest rooms are each named after a different artist; many overlook the shimmering sea in front of the hotel. Kayaks can be launched from the nearby beach (a 5-minute stroll away). Or ask for a sea shuttle into St-Tropez on the hotel's private boat. The on-site Bougainvillier gastronomic restaurant (open Wed–Sun lunch and dinner; lunchtime menu 45€) run by head chef Philippe Nogier dishes up meals to write home about. In an atmosphere that’s less stuffy than other top restaurants, diners may sample a symphony of local flavors, including Camargue bull ribs, and crunchy veal sweetbreads with spinach shoots.