La Belle Aurore, Saint-Tropez

• Few places place you this close to the Mediterranean; the hotel is perched directly above the water, and you'll enjoy sweeping views across the Gulf of Saint-Tropez from the infinity pool, restaurant, and most rooms.
• You're a 10-minute stroll from Sainte-Maxime's historic center, shops, cafés, and night market, and only a 25-minute car ride to the famous Saint-Tropez harbor across the bay.
• La Table d'Aurore's glass rotunda appears to hover above the sea, making dinner here as much about the setting as the excellent Provençal seafood dishes on the menu.
• Valet service is available due to limited parking.
• The staff is very warm and attentive.

• Rooms and their en-suites are a bit small, with the former offering limited luggage space.
• Reservations should be made at the sea-view dining room, popular with both hotel guests and locals, particularly in July and August.

Authenticity

La Belle Aurore blends into its laid-back French Riviera surroundings with terracotta roofs, stonework, and whitewashed exteriors, and its stellar location on the water's edge. While light-filled interiors are modest and leave something to be desired, it's not about the room and its decor. It's about the sea views, views that stretch across the gulf toward Saint-Tropez, and the direct access you'll have to the Mediterranean to take a dip should the mood strike. The hotel's restaurant, La Table d'Aurore, further roots the experience in local culture with a bistronomic menu shaped by the region's fishing traditions (think plenty of grilled fish, local produce, and ingredients typical of the Provençal coast). 

Location

You can't get any closer to the water (without getting wet) than this. Set directly at its edge, between a busy four-lane road and the Gulf of Saint-Tropez in Sainte-Maxime, La Belle Aurore enjoys sweeping views across the glittering gulf while remaining a quick trip from the town's historic center, casino, shops, and night market (a 5-minute drive or a 10-15-minute walk). Regional transport links are also straightforward, with Saint-Raphaël train station and La Môle Airport about 16 miles (25 km) away and airports in Hyères and Nice within an hour's drive (37 mi/60 km and 50 mi/80 km, respectively).

Rooms & Bathrooms

The hotel's 17 guestrooms, though clean, bright, and airy, lack a little character and could use a refresh. Their redeeming quality, however, is the sea view. All but one open onto a private balcony or terrace with uninterrupted sea views across the gulf (the exception overlooks the hills). Expect comfortable double or king-size beds and simple furnishings that keep the focus on the coastal scenery outside. Bathrooms are plain, if not a little outdated in style, typically featuring showers (with bathtubs in some higher-category rooms and suites). While some rooms are on the smaller side, upgraded options—such as the Junior Suite or Deluxe Suite—offer furnished terraces, separate lounging areas, and space for additional guests.

Amenities

La Belle Aurore's few amenities revolve around its exceptional seafront setting. A string of sunbeds hugs the length of the property, stretching out from the infinity pool and its small deck, practically kissing the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, while direct access to the water and a small sandy area invite guests to take a swim in the sea. Dining is another highlight; the hotel's La Table d'Aurore restaurant serves Provençal bistronomic cuisine with large bay windows, and in summer, tables and chairs spill out onto the outdoor terrace for a more casual, beachy vibe, steps from the water. Attentive staff and valet service (helpful given the limited parking nearby) round out the experience.

Family-Friendliness

Even though La Belle leans romantic, parents with kids in tow are welcome and can find suitable accommodations in several room categories. The Exclusive Room and Junior Suite sleep 2-3 guests, with the latter offering more space to stretch out, a sofa bed, a lounge area, and a comfy king for the parents (as opposed to the Exclusive's double bed). The Deluxe Suite for 2-4 guests has even more square footage and comes with a king, two single beds, and a lounge area.