Château Saint-Martin & Spa is extremely prouded of rich history which dates back to the 12th century when the Château was a Knights Templar Commandery.
The location high up in the hills of Vence was chosen for its strategic advantage, today guests value the panoramic view for its splendour.
Arriving at Château you step into a world of leisure and delicious relaxation.
ROMAN ROADS AND FORTS
Strolling through the grounds of Château you can feel the history which began in 350 AD when Saint-Martin, Bishop of Tours, constructed a fortified structure and gave his name to the property.
Before that the Romans occupied the city of Vence and today guests walk to tennis courts along part of a Roman road.
KNIGHTS TEMPLAR TREASURE
In 1115 the Count of Provence bequeathed the property to the crusaders and in 1150 the Château became the stronghold of the Knights Templar, who naturally valued it for its strategic position high in the hills.
Back from Jerusalem, they grew vineyards and olive trees on the land, some of the ancient boughs are there today.
The tale also says the Knights buried an amazing treasure in the park of the Château, it is yet to be discovered.
THE PARISIAN ERA
In 1905 a Polish Count discovered place of peace and history, he bought the ruins of the Château with the intention of restoring it for a religious order.
The project was never completed but soon a Parisian businessman, seduced by the surrounding beauty, made it his private home.
After spending almost 20 happy years in his residence the owner, who was a natural host, decided to convert the Château into a hotel in 1954.
A FAMILY AFFAIR
In 1961, the owner began building six villas overlooking the property especially for families to enjoy privately.
They were named "Saint-Martin" after the Bishop of Tours, "Riou" and "La Foux", which are streams close to the Château, "Saint-Véran", after the 5th century Bishop Saint-Veran who saved Vence from being destroyed by the Visigoths, "Saint-Lambert" after the Bishop Saint-Lambert, who according to legend changed water into wine, and "Ponant" a reference to a west wind blowing over the French Riviera.
Eventually the Château passed into the hands of the owner’s son.
The idea of being part of a family has always been important at the Château and with this in mind, the property joined the Relais & Châteaux Association in 1970.
OETKER FAMILY
Rudolf Oetker, founder of the German commercial organisation Oetker, already owned Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc and pursuing his love of beautiful hotels acquired the Château in 1994.
He lavishly renovated the property, adding glorious infinity pool by the Knights’ ancient olive trees and a renowned Spa.
Château du Domaine Saint-Martin became Château Saint-Martin & Spa in 2008.
A place of luxury that is completely at one with the surrounding countryside, the hotel was rewarded for its commitment to sustainability with Green Globe Certification, a prestigious award which hotel has received every year since 2011.
Step through a brick arch onto the charming terrace of your suite or climb the narrow spiral stairs to your Honeymoon Duplex Suite at the top of the tower.
Suites are full of character reflecting the history of this Château.
All the guestrooms have exquisitely refined interiors, with the owner’s personal attention to detail and there are fabulous
views over the sweep of the Côte d’Azur from Nice to Cannes.
Each villa has a sense of peaceful seclusion with uninterrupted views across the olive groves, over the Château below all the way to the Côte d’Azur
Villas offers a luxury services: pool, spa and restaurants are minutes away.
Ponant, Veran, La Foux and Saint-Lambert are four hillside villas of exceptional luxury. The spaciousness makes them ideally suited for memorable holidays with families and friends.
The kitchen is newly fitted with top of the range equipment, and the services of a talented chef can be arranged.
Interiors are elegant and full of character with wrought iron balustrades winding up to the second floor and the two private suites.
Situated in the green hillside the terraces offer stunning views across green olive groves to the contrasting blue of the Mediterranean Sea.
Here guests are immersed in the grandeur of the countryside, each villa is a tranquil sanctuary for rest, relaxation and luxurious privacy.
The quintessential Riviera retreat for guests travelling with family and close friends, the Villa Saint-Martin combines the Château's signature hospitality and charm with exclusive privacy.
Set over two floors, guests have a truly spacious living room flooded with sunlight, three private suites each with lavish marble bathrooms.
There are two terraces so families can find their privacy within the villa, each has spectacular views of the countryside and the magnificent coastline.
The stunning open plan kitchen is a stage for gourmets or a private chef, which can be arranged.
An intimate hideaway nestled in hillside splendour, the Villa Riou captures the essence of exclusive privacy.
Surrounded by the swaying woods behind, olive groves below and views rolling down the hill across the Château all the way to the coast, this is an inspirational setting.
On a clear day you can see across the Mediterranean to Corsica. Villa Riou is perfect for romantic escapes.
All villas are nestled on the hills in the olive groves across the road from the main part of the hotel.
At night beneath the Riviera evening stars, as the lights of Cannes and Nice begin to glitter below, this is a magical space for private moments, especially with the gourmet expertise for which Château Saint-Martin & Spa is renowned.
Lit by the warmth of the Mediterranean sun with fabulous views across the entire sweep of the Côte d’Azur, the private terrace of the One Bedroom Suite is quite fabulous.
These are the largest open plan suites, offering up to 592 sqf in elegant living space.
A generous private terrace gives unrivalled views of the French Riviera, a truly magical place to enjoy a romantic moment.
Highly sophisticated, guests have a true sense of the property’s historic character, particularly with the magnificent arch leading from the living space outside.
The Honeymoon Duplex Suite is the most romantic in this hotel that has been named one of the most romantic hotels in the world.
The ground floor has a lovely balcony off the sitting room, with views over the rolling hillside to the Mediterranean Sea below.
A staircase ascends to a "secret" bedroom at the very top of the tower.
This is a spacious room awash with the famous light of the region.
The bathroom is finished in marble with a round soaking tub and steam shower with lights that can be changed for your mood.
Downstairs is a guest restroom, and if travelling with a child an extra bed can certainly be placed in the sitting room.
These large open plan suites are decorated with refined elegant, they are set in the original stone foundations of the Château with a magnificent arch onto the private balcony.
The rooms are up to 484 sqf in size, and with the French doors pushed back there is a wonderful open aspect out into the never ending light blue sky.
Elegantly proportioned and tastefully appointed, each Superior Junior Suite is a symphony of grace and comfort.
The interior is naturally bright and airy but a peaceful breakfast on the balcony, gazing over the Côte d’Azur is really the essence of these Château suites.
Passing through the Château corridors, Traditional Junior Suite guests have a special sense of the hotel’s former history.
Interiors capture the authentic heritage with warmth and charm. Some of these Junior Suites have a balcony.
There are wide uninterrupted views of stately hills, an uplifting breath of fresh air, reminding guests what an inspiration the region has been for many great artists.
Finished with a sumptuous light touch, these are sunny spaces with a refreshing open aspect over the hillside.
Guests are immersed in the Château’s surroundings with a view so typical of the region with green olive groves.
For families or friends making a reservation for two connecting Junior Suites, hotel offers a complimentary upgrade to one of the spacious Two-Bedroom Villas.
Enjoy the relaxed seclusion of a Provence style home and spoil yourself with the Château’s renowned luxuries.
While away days in splendid isolation, later take a dip in the Riviera’s most beautifully designed garden pool, or revive with a blissful treatment in Spa Saint-Martin Sisley.
Lunch is at L’Oliveraie in the shade of ancient olive trees, gourmet dining on the terrace at Le Saint-Martin.
Dine in a refined or rustic setting, with magnificent views of the French Riviera.
Two restaurants are the inspiration of a celebrated gourmet team lead by Jean-Luc Lefrançois, each shares a particular passion for the terroir.
Take a seat on the panoramic terrace and savour the gastronomic menu at Le Saint-Martin, while flavours of the Mediterranean are presented at L'Oliveraie in a shady olive grove.
Le Rossini is a bar of fine style and elegance, where guests can relax with afternoon tea or after dinner cognacs, indeed as host to the connoisseurs wine club, Les Canthares, cellars boast some of the world's most exclusive vintages.
The graceful swimming pool bar is also open for cocktails, take a seat by the lawn and enjoy lovely views over the Château’s gardens and park.
Le Rossini is the most refined setting for an evening cocktail on the French Riviera.
Seated on the terrace, a glass of champagne is savoured with splendid sweeping views over the Côte d’Azur.
After dinner cocktails are a particular pleasure in the bar, which is furnished with a regal splendour; of special note are the rare tapestries, commissioned from Manufacture des
Gobelins in Paris more than 200 years ago, and an exquisite Musson timepiece.
As Château Saint-Martin & Spa hosts the Riviera’s prestigious club for connoisseurs of wine, Les Canthares, the cellar holds some truly exceptional vintage champagnes and cognacs, sommelier is always delighted to be consulted.
Le Rossini also serves an especially elegant afternoon tea.
12.00h - 01.00h
The gourmet restaurant occupies a special location in the Château with sweeping views over the countryside down to the glittering Mediterranean.
Seated on the elegant terrace guests are immersed in all the sensual pleasures of the Riviera with the finest cuisine and the soft caress of a breeze on a balmy evening.
Chef Jean-Luc Lefrançois draws inspiration from seasonal produce and local harvests giving each dish a distinctive flavour of summer.
Head sommelier Géraud Tournier transforms the dining experience into a truly elevated journey of discovery.
Talented Chef Pâtissiere Eve Moncorger creates simply exquisite desserts.
For those seeking an exclusive private dining experience restaurant proposes "L’Œnothèque Table".
An intimate wine cellar in a castle turret, encircled with rare vintages; a fascinating setting for connoisseurs.
Situated adjacent to Le Saint-Martin, up to seven guests can enjoy a gourmet evening, with discrete service.
Breafast07.30h - 10.30h
12.00h - 14.00h
19.30h - 22.00h
L'Oliveraie is like a treasure hidden away and reserved for a chosen few.
Strolling through the Château’s garden, the air fragrant with Pierre de Ronsard roses, guests are delighted to discover summer restaurant in the shade of an ancient olive grove.
Chef Jean-Luc Lefrançois invites you to enjoy his summer creations filled with flavours of the sunny Mediterranean.
Working with this season’s local produce, L'Oliveraie’s menu now features authentic pizzas from wood-fired oven, herb-infused grilled fish and meats, teppanyaki plates and zesty salads.
Here at the foot of the Baou des Blancs with tranquil views of hills and gardens, each occasion is a sensual interlude, epitomising the languid afternoon lunches typical of the South of France.
12.00h - 15.00h
Stroll through the rose gardens and refresh at the bar by the infinity pool.
Recline in the shade of an olive tree, catch the soft fragrance of eucalyptus and cypress trees and enjoy the restful sight of cool water merging with the surrounding green parkland.
Select refreshments from cocktails, mocktails and speciality Thés Glacés such as the delicious Thé Saint-Martin, infused with lavender and lemon on ice.
Mixologist creates long iced drinks with flavours of the Riviera.
Peach, mint and local lavender syrup and they are always delighted to mix a cocktail with your favourite ingredients.
As the sun dips, take a seat at the bar with a glass of chilled champagne, and enjoy the evening cicada chorus in this splendidly cool corner of Château.
08.00h - 20.00h
The discerning judges of World Luxury Spa Awards gave Spa Saint-Martin Sisley the accolade of "Best luxury Spa destination in Europe".
Entering the Château’s private setting of natural beauty, seeing the range of treatments and professionalism of beauty specialists, guests will quickly realise the rarity of this Spa destination.
There are four elegant treatment rooms infused with natural daylight and fresh mountain air. There is also a luxurious couples’ suite with Sweet Spa Crystal sauna, experience shower and steam room.
The Spa also offers a beauty room and treatments in the hotel's gardens under a romantic gazebo.
A creative stylist is available by appointment to prepare guests for important evenings, celebrations and weddings.
Château Saint-Martin & Spa hosts a modern fitness centre, which is a particularly lovely space to exercise in, filled with natural daylight and offering views across the Riviera countryside.
One of the most beautiful corners of Château Saint-Martin & Spa’s garden is the Spa gazebo, draped in white wisteria, redolent with the floral fragrance. Behind billowing white muslin, this is a secluded oasis dedicated to Spa and pure beauty.
Château Saint-Martin & Spa dedicates a part of its Spa menu to men, for those who might be facing a stressful and exhausting environment made of obligations, and for those in search of a greater sense of wellbeing.
The Postpartum Wellness Care "Mother and Baby" allows you to focus on the relationship between you and your child.
Discover Sisley’s Phyto-Aromatic Treatments and let yourself be transported to a wonderful sensorial world.
Practising in the natural surroundings of the Château’s gardens puts you in harmony with nature and helps individuals find that elusive sense of inner calm.
The Château is set in 30 acres of picturesque natural beauty, and the surrounding countryside offers a range of recreational activities including magical walks through the hills.
There are also many pleasures on the Mediterranean including a trip to private beach.
CHIC SHOPPING
The boutique offers a carefully curated collection which includes chic attire, refined luggage and some truly artistic jewellery creations. Each is an exquisite addition to you or your family’s wardrobe, with resort wear, gentlemen’s shirts and gorgeous children’s accessories, a wonderful way to extend the life-style experience and the pleasures of Château Saint-Martin & Spa.
PRIVATE BEACH
You will glide through the gorgeous scenery in the cool comfort of a limousine, to private stretch of beach, to recline in luxury with plush towels and sunshades.
With sun on your shoulders, sand beneath your toes and service, a day on one of Cap d’Antibes’.
Private dining can be reserved in the Château’s graceful Salon Rouge or Salon Cap d'Antibes, or the wine cellars, a hidden place cut into the bedrock of the Château, an experience of enormous pleasure for connoisseurs.
The boutique offers a carefully curated collection which includes chic attire, refined luggage and some truly artistic jewellery creations.
Discover the captivating beauty of the French Riviera, from mountains to sandy coves.
Selected by concierges, the two following Golf clubs: Country Club Cannes-Mougins and Monte-Carlo Golf Club are the ideal places from which to practice your passion.
Your private helicopter puts Monaco or the Monte-Carlo Grand Prix just 10 minutes away, and Saint-Tropez is less than a 20 minute flight, added to which you have the pleasure of breathtaking views over the glittering Mediterranean coast.
There are two excellent quality clay courts that guests can join tennis pros to brush up their game in the invigorating mountain air.
The ancient chapel is a small peaceful space for vow renewals or an intimate wedding, while a terrace enshrouded in roses is an enchanting setting for a blessing.
Created exclusively for young guests, the Château Saint-Martin & Spa invites all junior travellers to discover a range of exciting activities during their stay.
Upon arrival, you can sign up your child for moments full of hilarity and games.
A tailor made programme will be proposed, 3 to 4 days a week, during the months of July and August, taking into account the age, number of children joining in, and importantly their enthusiasms.
The programme for the week will be given to parents upon arrival.
Developed to inspire the creativity of all participants, the majority of activities also aim to make the children aware of protecting the environment.
CHATEAU SAINT-MARTIN & SPA
2490 avenue des Templiers06140 VenceFrance