“It was the best of times…”
Every traveler has a different idea of the perfect vacation. Some crave destinations full of energy and exploration; others want to disconnect and leave the busy world behind. What if you could have both?
France’s two exceptional five-star resorts, Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort and Hotel Royal – Evian Resort, prove that you can. Distinct in setting and style yet alike in their ability to deliver a truly personalized luxury experience; these properties offer something for every guest. After six days between the two, we had only scratched the surface and left inspired to share their secrets!
Terre Blanche: A Provencal Paradise
Our journey began in Nice, where our partners at Deluxe France arranged an effortless 45-minute drive through the stunning landscapes of the South of France to Terre Blanche. Beyond its gates, the beautiful masonry and woodwork, terracotta roofs, and cobbled pathways create the feeling of a traditional Provençal village. Its 115 spacious suites and villas are dotted throughout the grounds, making it comfortable to settle in and never want to leave.
We began our stay with massages at the spectacular 30,000-square-foot Terre Blanche Spa, a haven featuring an indoor pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, sauna, hammam, snow shower, and an extensive treatment menu. Agent tip: Book a spa appointment for clients upon arrival while they wait for their room—a wonderful way to unwind after an overnight flight!
While at Terre Blanche, there is no shortage of ways to spend the day. Golfers can enjoy two championship courses, while racquet sports, cycling, and e-biking offer additional ways to explore. Lessons make golf approachable for beginners, too! After an active day, the gorgeous outdoor pool is a must, and the well-appointed Kids’ Club makes the resort equally appealing for families.
Dining is another highlight, from relaxed elegance to the Michelin-starred Le Faventia. And the croissants at breakfast? Some of the best I’ve ever had!
Of course, the surrounding region deserves exploration. With Deluxe France arranging seamless excursions, guests can discover Provence and the Côte d’Azur, both within easy reach. We enjoyed a winery lunch and tasting, a sunny day in Cannes, and a memorable perfume-making workshop with Galimard Maison de Parfums, whose 280-year heritage is rooted in nearby Grasse. Having the workshop brought directly to the resort was a true highlight and the perfect way to bring a little Provence home.
Hotel Royal – Evian Resort: Belle Époque Meets Alpine Escape
For the second half of our FAM, we flew from Nice to Geneva. After an hour drive, we found ourselves back in France, where Lake Geneva meets the foothills of the French Alps. Here, in Évian-les-Bains, we discovered the exquisite Hotel Royal – Evian Resort.
Since 1909, this five-star palace hotel has welcomed royalty and discerning travelers, combining Belle Époque grandeur with the relaxed atmosphere of a contemporary leisure resort. Its 150 beautifully appointed rooms and suites feel anything but stuffy. Our Lake View room was the perfect spot to enjoy the changing colors of the lake at sunrise and sunset.
Like Terre Blanche, the resort offers more than enough to fill an entire stay. Guests can relax beside the infinity pool overlooking the lake or unwind at the Evian Spa, with its indoor pool, outdoor Jacuzzi, cold plunge, sauna, steam room, and snow shower. For something more active, there are tennis, paddle and pickleball courts, e-bikes, and an LPGA-certified golf course. We loved the freedom to choose our own adventures on property!
One thing to take note of is that the resort’s excellent Bureau des Guides can arrange a host of regional experiences tailored to each guest. We explored Évian-les-Bains on a guided walking tour, including a taste of pure Evian water straight from the source, and visited medieval Yvoire, one of France’s designated Les Plus Beaux Villages, just 30 minutes away. A guided hike through the pre-Alps offered breathtaking views, while the nearby ski slopes—just 15 minutes from the resort—highlighted the destination’s appeal in every season.
Families are equally well catered for. The exceptional Kids’ Resort offers an extensive range of experiences both on and off property, giving children their own adventures while parents enjoy some well-deserved time to themselves.
We concluded our stay with a memorable Michelin-starred dinner at Les Fresques. Dining beneath a magnificent indoor tree and a beautiful, frescoed ceiling, we enjoyed a menu celebrating fresh ingredients from the resort’s own kitchen garden—a wonderful finale to our time together.
The Best of Both Worlds
Whether drawn to the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence or the lakeside beauty of the French Alps, Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort and Hotel Royal – Evian Resort deliver the complete luxury resort experience. Each has its own distinct character and sense of place, yet both combine outdoor adventure, wellness, culture, history, exceptional dining, and thoughtful family experiences.
With Deluxe France ensuring every detail is seamlessly executed, guests can enjoy as much—or as little—as they wish.
