LIFE BEYOND FIRST CLASS
DEPARTURES
CHAMPAGNE, CHIC,
AND CHÂTEAUX
Discover the best of France this autumn, from Michelin-starred dining and serene spas in Paris to exclusive beach clubs and private boating adventures along the French Riviera.
TANYA GIBSON
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This autumn, Paris continues to captivate travelers with its timeless allure. With the Olympic Games now in the rearview mirror, the City of Light and beyond beckon with a mix of culinary indulgence, wellness retreats, and picturesque escapes. Whether you’re exploring Parisian streets, the sun-soaked shores of the French Riviera, or the lush vineyards of Champagne and Bordeaux, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences. Here’s your guide to what not to miss during this season.
La Réserve Paris
Monsieur George
Newly Starred Dining Experiences
France’s culinary scene continues to shine with the 2024 Michelin guide awarding new stars to 62 restaurants across the country. Among the new stars is La Gabriel at La Réserve Paris, which now holds its prestigious third Michelin star, placing it among an elite group of just ten restaurants in the capital. Chef Jérôme Banctel offers a cosmopolitan menu that weaves global influences into a harmonious dining experience. Meanwhile, the Art Deco-inflected Monsieur George hotel is home to Galanga, led by 32-year-old chef Thomas Damingo, who has also earned a Michelin star for his innovative plant-forward dishes. Celebrate these culinary stars as you indulge in the finest French cuisine of the season.
Pilgrimage-Worthy Spas
Even with the Olympic Games behind us, Paris remains a haven for wellness seekers. The newly opened Hotel Hana, designed by Laura Gonzalez and Olivier Leone, invites guests to unwind with holistic treatments inspired by Japanese rituals, such as reiki and kobido. Meanwhile, La Réserve Paris continues to host specialty wellness workouts, blending yoga, dance, and boxing to invigorate both body and spirit.
In the South of France, the Spa Nescens at La Réserve Ramatuelle offers Women’s Better Aging retreats, perfect for those seeking rejuvenation. These multi-day programs combine nature walks, yoga, and holistic treatments, paired with personalized menus from Michelin-starred chefs, offering an all-encompassing wellness experience as the seasons change.
La Réserve Paris
Hotel Hana
Cap D’Antibes Beach Hotel
The Côte d’Azur’s Most Exclusive Beaches
As summer transitions into a quieter season, the French Riviera offers a more serene retreat at its most glamorous beach clubs. The newly revamped Cap D’Antibes Beach Hotel, perched between Cannes and Nice, offers stunning views and a private beach, ideal for enjoying the Mediterranean’s shimmering waters. Meanwhile, La Réserve à La Plage on Pampelonne Beach near St. Tropez continues to exude coastal chic, with Philippe Starck-designed spaces and Michelin-starred dining—perfect for those seeking luxury in a peaceful setting.
Family-Friendly Escapes
Paris with kids? Absolutely. La Réserve Paris Apartments in the quiet 16th arrondissement provides a luxurious home base for family adventures. These multi-bedroom apartments offer the comforts of home, with fully stocked kitchens, large balconies, and views of the Eiffel Tower. Children can enjoy pastry workshops, while the whole family can explore nearby attractions like the Paris Aquarium. For a family-friendly retreat in St. Tropez, Hotel La Ponche is an iconic choice. With accommodations once favored by celebrities like Brigitte Bardot, this historic hotel offers sea views, private terraces, and family activities like boat rides and beach picnics.
La Réserve Ramatuelle
Splurge-Worthy Buyouts
Set sail through France’s picturesque waterways on a private boating experience with Belmond. Their luxurious Coquelicot boat offers spacious cabins, a champagne bar, and an outdoor deck for private charters through Champagne. Partnered with Maison Ruinart, this experience includes exclusive vineyard tours and tastings, making it a dream journey for wine lovers. Additionally, Belmond’s new itinerary in Camargue offers a unique exploration of one of Europe’s largest natural reserves, complete with bird watching, lavender field tours, and a special horse whispering experience with Jean Francois Pignon.
In Bordeaux, the recently reopened La Maison d’Estournel offers a charming retreat surrounded by vineyards. With just 14 rooms, this intimate property is ideal for weddings and celebrations, offering grand cru wine tastings, fishing, and oyster farming in between festivities. Relax and soak in the beauty of Bordeaux’s rolling hills as you embrace the season.
Hotel La Ponche
La Réserve à La Plage
La Maison d’Estournel
La Maison d’Estournel
Pivoine, A Belmond Boat, Camargue
Coquelicot, A Belmond Boat, Champagne
From the vibrant streets of Paris to the tranquil shores of the French Riviera, France offers a wealth of luxurious experiences to savor. Whether you’re indulging in fine dining, rejuvenating at a spa, or setting sail on a private boating adventure, your journey through France promises to be unforgettable.