Le Mas Candille, an unmissable Provence retreat

It is one of these addresses that you secretly wish you could keep to yourself, so that when you go back you feel alone in paradise. But it is also an address that deserves to be shared widely: Le Mas Candille. Its name only is an invitation to travel, to explore the gorgeous French Riviera and its inland region: “Le Mas” is the local term for the typical Provencal farmhouse.

I got to enjoy a stay at Le Mas Candille while I was touring the Riviera, deciding it would be the perfect hideaway retreat between Cannes and Nice, both directly on the coast. The five star property, part of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux, is indeed located in the village of Mougins, perched on top of the hills 20 minutes from the International Airport in Nice.

An all-time favorite destination for celebrities, Mougins has been the home of Christian Dior, Edith Piaf and Picasso.

Sprawling over a 9 acre park, Le Mas Candille offers top luxury hotel amenities and services in the most quiet and relaxing atmosphere. There are no less than three swimming-pools, two Jacuzzis, two restaurants (including a Michelin starred gastronomic restaurant named “Le Candille”), and of course a spa. Along with the 46 rooms (including 7 suites) spread over the 9 acre estate, you are guaranteed to always have a lot of space for yourself. Priceless !

My room at Le Mas Candille was exactly like I had thought it would be: spacious yet intimate, and of course reflecting the “Provence” spirit in the colours and furniture, with beautiful fabrics and decorations (the works of art and antiques have mostly been brought in from all over the world). Of course, tradition of the decor perfectly blends in with all the modern facilities.

 

My favorite part ? The balcony, overlooking a perfectly manicured lawn (something you will find all around the property) with tens of varieties of Mediterranean plants, and the beautiful valley in the distance.

Staying on an estate like Le Mas Candille makes you just want to wander around all day, as there are so many gorgeous hidden spots, equally appealing… But one has to make a choice, so we did spend most of our time by the main infinity edge pool and its jacuzzi (located just below, with a lovely nearby relaxing area), and Le Mas pool, maybe a little more intimate. A special mention for the hydrotherapy pool, that I got to enjoy on the afternoon I tried the spa.

The product brand used at the spa has changed since I visited Le Mas Candille, but I can definitely confirm that the spa therapist was very sweet and professional, giving me lots of useful advice that I have been able to try since.

Food lovers have every reason to fall in love with Le Mas Candille too. On our first evening, we got to experience the delicious cuisine of chef David Chauvac at Restaurant Candille… Let’s simply say that I totally got to understand the reason why the restaurant has 1 Michelin star !

The restaurant is elegant, and you can dine on the beautiful terrace with a view. The chef and his team realize a subtle cuisine with excellent products of the market. As a result, you enjoy a fresh and refined cuisine. Definitely a beautiful experience, whether for guests at the hotel or visitors.