France: The Out Of Office Collection

Paris has done more to shape our sense of decadence than any other city. From smokey cabaret bars to high fashion hangouts, it’s a place that has welcomed and embraced excess, yet has always maintained that classy underlayer. Maison Souquet is a stunning luxury hotel that embodies that kind of classy excess. It’s even located in Pigalle, Paris’ very own Red Light District.

This hotel may be an acquired taste, but it’s certainly an exciting one. Designed by Jacques Garcia himself, it’s an intimate hotel that’s ideal for those who’d like to try something a little different. The decor is bold, dark, and in some ways quite loud. You could imagine Oscar Wilde staying here and reveling in the richness of it all. Get ready to step into a world of belle époque glamour.

The exquisite Château de Berne can be found in the deep heart of Provence. On the map, it may seem a while away from the bustling coastline of the French Riviera, but it’s only an hour in the car to St Tropez. Château de Berne is a stunning wine resort – the in-house rosé is a must. Nestled away in 2,471 acres of land, you can spend hours strolling through Château de Berne’s olive groves and vineyards, in-between fun-filled wine tastings. You can go even full-on Eddie and Patsy if the mood takes you.

Experience understated elegance in the classic Provence style. You can combine a trip to Paris with a trip to Château de Berne, giving you a taste of the City of Lights and then a more remote, intimate setting for some pure relaxation.

Firmly established as one of France’s finest luxury hotels, Hôtel Martinez is an art deco masterpiece. Modernised by Pierre-Yves Rochon, it’s a hotel of historic significance. Naturally, Cannes attracts the glitterati every year for the famous film festival, and Hôtel Martinez is the place to be for this peak season. It’s located in La Croisette, the most exclusive enclave of Cannes – and it’s also home to the only two-star Michelin restaurant in Cannes.

The hotel is now part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt, and is a great place to stay if you’d like to experience a classic French hotel. It embodies the essence of the French Riviera in so many ways – and we reckon it’s a must-try if you’re in the area.

Located in the heart of Bordeaux, InterContinental has been a luxury staple since the 1920s. The building was completed the year the French Revolution broke out, and was originally intended to be a private home – but as the ancient regime fell, plans changed. As such, this is a hotel that’s steeped in history. The decadent interiors call to mind the glamour of the Court of Versailles. Marble surfaces glitter under the light of chandeliers, while ornate furniture and decor invite you to embrace the classical elegance of it all.

If you liked the film Marie Antoinette, you’ll love InterContinental Bordeaux. The rooms really are fit for royalty. The restaurant was recently taken over by none other than Gordon Ramsay. Be sure to try the taster menu, which features some excellent wines selected by The Wine Concierges.