70 Hectares & l'Océan

Though not as famous as the French Riviera, the Côte d’Argent, or Silver Coast, has its own considerable charms: long stretches of quiet coastline, untouched pine and oak forests, and the highest sand dunes in Europe, to name a few. 70 Hectares… & l’Océan is one of three connected resorts under the banner of Les Domaines de Fontenille — a luxury collection of hotels in France and Spain — and like its sister hotels, it’s modern and elegant.

The name, however unusual, is straightforwardly descriptive: the resort sits on a 70-hectare (173-acre) golf course overlooking the sea, its green and white exterior partly obscured by the wooded setting. The three-story building houses sun-filled rooms and suites with large bay windows, cheerful plants, and whimsical yet sophisticated decor. There’s light and color everywhere — pale wood floors, crisp white linens, pastel details, bold, deep turquoise wall paneling — and eye-catching original artwork, from lithographs to photography to quirky sculptures, add visual interest. Bathrooms have tiled walk-in showers and organic products. Many rooms have private balconies or patios with views of the golf course, forest, or the Atlantic Ocean.

On the ground level, a wide open-air terrace is a picturesque venue for breakfast, cocktails, and everything in between. Just beyond is a swimming pool, its deck pleasantly shaded by tall trees and rows of umbrellas. It’s a short stroll down to the water’s edge, and some of the region’s best surf breaks are located nearby; 70 Hectares gladly arranges surf lessons, bike rentals, and sailboat rides.