One Week in Seyne-sur-Mer: A Hidden Gem on the Côte d’Azur
- Mirco Röthlisberger
- vor 1 Tag
- 4 Min. Lesezeit
Tucked between the sparkling Mediterranean and the charm of southern France, Seyne-sur-Mer offered us a week full of warmth, wonder, and unexpected beauty. From seaside luxury to festive nights and island escapes, this journey quickly became one we’ll never forget.
The Journey Begins
Our trip to Seyne-sur-Mer began early in the morning as we set off in our little Toyota Yaris – surprisingly comfortable and perfect for the road ahead. The drive was smooth and relaxing, with several short stops along the way to take in the scenery and enjoy the anticipation of what was to come.
First Impressions at the Grand Hôtel Des Sablettes Plage
Upon arriving at the Grand Hôtel Des Sablettes Plage – Curio Collection by Hilton, we were welcomed by a friendly security guard and quickly found parking. The hotel, located right on the coast, immediately captivated us. With the sea just steps away and the sun shining down, it felt like stepping into a true vacation paradise. The atmosphere was peaceful and elegant, the grounds beautifully maintained, and the hotel exuded a calm, inviting energy. Everything around us signaled that we were in for a restful and beautiful week.
Welcome and Comfort
Check-in was fast and smooth, and the staff were exceptionally kind and helpful. One especially convenient feature was being able to message the staff via WhatsApp for any needs or questions. The hotel itself was spacious, equipped with elevators and stairs, and provided everything we could have asked for. There were two small pools – one indoor, one outdoor – each with changing rooms. A tropical-style restaurant, a fitness area, wellness services, air-conditioned rooms, and free Wi-Fi completed the list. The beach was just a short stroll away, making it easy to transition from poolside lounging to a walk along the water.
Settling In and Savoring the Moment
We spent the first few days simply soaking it all in – the sun, the sea breeze, and the relaxing pace. The hotel’s main restaurant was decent, though not extraordinary. However, the Virgin Coladas stood out – cold, refreshing, and absolutely perfect under the warm afternoon sun. On the hotel property, we also found a second restaurant. The food was average, but the ambiance and warm service made dining there a pleasant experience.
A Festive Surprise
On our last evening in Seyne, we stumbled upon a lively local street festival. The promenade was lined with colorful stalls offering everything from handcrafted accessories to delicious food. The mix of locals and visitors created a festive, buzzing energy. As night fell, the highlight of the evening lit up the sky: a stunning fireworks show launched from the sea. Every Friday, the town celebrates with this beautiful display, and it added a magical ending to our final night in town.
Day Trips and Discovery
Of course, we couldn’t resist exploring more of the Côte d’Azur. One of our first day trips took us to Monaco. It was exactly as we imagined – luxurious yachts, polished streets, upscale boutiques, and sleek cars everywhere. Although the weather wasn’t perfect and it rained for most of the day, we still enjoyed wandering the elegant streets, especially around the Prince’s Palace and the iconic casino.
The Magic of Saint-Tropez
Next on our list was Saint-Tropez. It was crowded – packed, in fact – but its charm still shone through. The colorful houses, the buzzing harbor, and the postcard-perfect views created a lively yet romantic atmosphere. A standout moment was visiting the Louis Vuitton boutique, where we were welcomed into the garden and served champagne. It felt like something out of a movie – luxurious, unexpected, and entirely memorable.
A Letdown in Nice
We also ventured into Nice, a major city on the coast that we had high hopes for. Unfortunately, it didn’t live up to our expectations. The streets felt a little run-down, and the overall vibe was more gray than glamorous. After walking around for a few hours, we made the decision to return to Seyne.
A Final Escape to Porquerolles
To close out our trip, we spent a day on Île de Porquerolles – a car-free island reachable only by boat. The short ferry ride already hinted at the peaceful atmosphere to come. Once there, we found a paradise of unspoiled nature, turquoise waters, and charming seaside restaurants. The views were breathtaking, the air smelled of pine and salt, and everything moved at a slower, more peaceful pace. Whether browsing small shops or sitting at a café by the sea, everything on Porquerolles invited you to relax and breathe. It was the perfect escape for nature lovers and anyone in search of tranquility.
A Week to Remember
Our week on the Côte d’Azur offered an incredible variety of experiences – from Monaco’s luxury to Porquerolles’ wild serenity, from fireworks and festivals to quiet mornings at the beach. Each place brought something special, and Seyne-sur-Mer, in particular, held our hearts with its relaxed charm and understated beauty. We returned home sun-kissed and full of memories – laughter, flavors, music, quiet moments, and little surprises we never planned but will never forget. It wasn’t just a vacation; it was a reminder of what it feels like to truly live in the moment.
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