One of the most charming and romantic places we visited on our recent european vacation was the magnificent Welcome Hotel in Villefranche  Sur Mer.  Tucked in between Nice and Cap Ferrat, this iconic hotel sits directly on The Bay of Villefranche, regarded as one of the five most beautiful bays in the world!  The location is absolutely perfect for discovering the charming beauty of this very popular fishing village.

Hotel Welcome Villefranche sur Mer

Our arrival here was so memorable, with 360 degree views and the cozy outdoor patio flanking the front entrance, we just wanted to take it all in.  The hotel staff were extremely helpful and graciously welcomed us to our top floor room.  Every room of this over 100 year old hotel has a balcony and the same amazing view, being on the corner ours had 2 …. how incredible! Decorated in a nautical theme, the room was cozy and well appointed with an abundance of natural sunlight and all the amenities including nightly french chocolate delivery! Of course the beauty of this room was the balcony with table and chairs, perfect for breakfast and sunrise overlooking the bay and watching the amazing sunsets with wine!

Conveniently located near the hotel lobby is a breakfast cafe that turns to a wine bar featuring live music.  Breakfast here was an absolute treat that we looked forward to every morning.  Along with the customary bacon and eggs was an array of various charcuterie, the finest local cheeses, fresh yogurt with herbal honey, fresh fruits and the best of all freshly baked pastries of all kinds!!  Served with great coffee and fresh squeezed juices, it was the perfect feast to start the day of discovery.

The ideal location of this hotel allows it to be the perfect “home base“ for visiting some of the most scenic places on the Riviera.  A few kilometres away, we visited the port and old town of Nice, along with the stunning Cap Ferrat and the amazing Eze village.  Monaco and the Italian border is a short train ride away as is Antibes and Cannes.

These are all day excursions nearby but old town Villefranche is such a unique and quaint destination on its own.  One interesting historical fact of this hotel is that it became a second residence for the famous french artist Jean Cocteau who was so inspired by this coastal village. Many of his drawings were created in this hotel and at the port and his influence still adorns the walls of nearby villas.

A short walk from the hotel you will find a long sandy beach with incredible views of the village.  Also within walking distance is a number of fine restaurants, cafes, ice cream shops and artisan  shops that you can discover through the narrow cobblestone streets.  It was truly romantic wandering after a fine dinner and enjoying the ancient architecture.

For us the Welcome Hotel in Villefranche sur Mer was such a charming and memorable place.  It is one of those places that is so unique in it’s beauty that you will always be longing to return.  Thank you so much Welcome Hotel for truly an amazing stay.