Book a Stay in the Most Magical Castles Near Monaco

Clinging to the side of the ancient walls in Èze, the 400-year-old Château Eza is a true fairytale stay, just 30 minutes west of Monaco by car. With just 14 individually decorated rooms, it’s an intimate offering, but the star is the soaring view over the teal-hued Mediterranean, which can be had from bedroom balconies and the in-house gourmet restaurant. For the ultimate romantic stay, book the suite, with its stone fireplace and outdoor hot tub.

Looking for a spectacular view from your castle? You’ll love Château Saint-Martin & Spa, plonked on a hilltop with sprawling vistas of Vence. When you’re not wandering through the 14ha (34 acres) of Mediterranean gardens, dine in the summer restaurant under the olive grove, or at the on-site, Michelin-starred Le-Saint Martin restaurant. Don’t be fooled by its old-timey facade: rooms here are very modern and, if you’re feeling particularly flush, you can stay in one of the opulent villas.

With the Château Médiéval de Roquebrune a two-minute walk away, Les Deux Frères is perfectly placed for exploring the 10th-century castle (and only a 15-minute drive from Monaco). The hotel itself boasts glorious views of Monaco and Cap Martin, best seen from its terraced restaurant. When it’s time to retire to your chamber, open the shutters – many rooms overlook the castle.

An option close to Château de Grimaud is Maison Prestige Roberto Geissini. This stylish hotel has 16 rooms and suites, dotted across four sprawling villas. Lounge in one of the hammocks, play a game of tennis on the hotel courts or laze in one of its three pools. To get into that Monaco feeling before actually heading to the tiny state, book into the aptly named Monaco suite, which includes its own piano, freestanding tub and private terrace.

An intimate hotel with just four bedrooms and three suites, Hôtel Le Roquebrune feels like a home away from home. Located at the gates of Monaco, it’s just a short meander from here to its namesake château. Rooms are washed in neutral tones and a refined breakfast is served each morning on the sun-soaked terrace. Start your day off right with picture-perfect views of the French Riviera.

Château de Montfort is one of those romantic French chateaux of which we all dream. The best way to experience it is by staying at a nearby hotel. Enter: Hotel Les Bastides St Paul. Beyond its terracotta exterior, you’ll find airy rooms sleeping up to four people – with budget options available. If you can pull yourself away from the clover-shaped swimming pool and sunbeds, the chateau is just a seven-minute drive.

Family-friendly Le Mas de Pierre has the feel of a castle retreat in the heart of the French Riviera. It’s part of the ultra-luxe Relais & Châteaux hotel group, boasting 76 newly renovated rooms and suites. However, most of your time will be spent in one of the three swimming pools or many jacuzzis dotted around the estate. Children will love the kids’ club and Alice in Wonderland-inspired playground (including twirling teacups and a giant teapot to slide in).

From the outside, Toile Blanche looks like your standard Provençal farmhouse, with its honey hues and lavender field. Yet, with thoughtful and contemporary interiors, a summer restaurant serving seasonal dishes, and walls adorned with artwork by the owners, this family-run lodging feels anything but stock-standard. Bonus: it’s a great base for exploring nearby Château de Montfort.

With a history going back to the 11th century, it’s worth paying a visit to Château de Grimaud on your next trip to the French Riviera. Le Clos des Oliviers is a 10-minute drive away from the castle, making it a fantastic choice for your south of France stay. This apart-hotel was one a Provençal farmhouse, but now it’s a family-friendly establishment complete with a kitchen and living area in each suite. There’s also an on-site pool, tennis court and gardens to enjoy.