La Villa Douce ****

Not far down the coast from St. Tropez, in the seaside villages of Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer, is a hillside escape that promises a respite from the see-and-be-seen atmosphere of some of the French Riviera’s busier locales. La Villa Douce promises a gentle life, and it delivers it, though with perhaps a dash more modern style than you might expect — its interiors are almost Nordic in their minimalism, decorated in blues and grays that mirror the Mediterranean seascapes outside.

Its rooms and suites offer views out to sea, either from balconies or terraces or through panoramic windows; their contemporary interiors are softened by artworks and textiles depicting butterflies, dragonflies, and various plant life. The standard rooms are cozy but comfortable, with Italian-style showers, while the suites expand to generous dimensions, and the two-bedroom family-style “Flat Suite” adds a bathtub.

There’s a pool, a solarium, and a treatment room for spa services, while a shuttle connects the hotel with Rayol Beach. Le Club Papillon serves breakfast on the terrace facing the sea, and becomes a cocktail bar in time for an apéritif; Café l’Envol is open to the public for lunch and dinner on its own terrace, and features a seasonal, organic menu with vegan options courtesy of chef Zivorad Markovic.