La Colombe d'Or
A legendary hotel and restaurant in St. Paul de Vence, famed for its incredible art collection and historic charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the art and ambiance
La Colombe d'Or
Best Time
Experience the art and ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary hotel and restaurant in St. Paul de Vence, famed for its incredible art collection and historic charm.
"Dine surrounded by masterpieces from Picasso and Matisse at this iconic French Riviera gem."
🎯 Book Dining Ahead
Reservations are essential, especially for lunch. Call or book online well in advance.
🖼️ Appreciate the Art
Take time to explore the hotel's incredible art collection; it's a major highlight.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Masterpiece-Filled Walls
Throughout the hotel and restaurant
Dine and stay surrounded by original works by Picasso, Matisse, Chagall, and Calder. A true art lover's paradise.
Charming St. Paul de Vence Village
Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Nestled in a medieval hilltop village, the hotel offers a quintessential South of France experience.
Terrace Dining
Restaurant terrace
Enjoy delicious regional cuisine with stunning views, often in the company of art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Art & Ambiance First
Service Can Be Hit or Miss
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Dining Ahead
Reservations are essential, especially for lunch. Call or book online well in advance.
🖼️ Appreciate the Art
Take time to explore the hotel's incredible art collection; it's a major highlight.
🚶 Explore the Village
Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming medieval streets of St. Paul de Vence.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be difficult in the village; consider arriving early or using designated lots.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Dining Ahead
Reservations are essential, especially for lunch. Call or book online well in advance.
🖼️ Appreciate the Art
Take time to explore the hotel's incredible art collection; it's a major highlight.
🚶 Explore the Village
Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming medieval streets of St. Paul de Vence.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be difficult in the village; consider arriving early or using designated lots.
💰 Pricey but Worth It
It's a splurge, but the unique art and historic setting make it memorable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Colombe d'Or offers a unique blend of historic charm, an exceptional art collection, and a picturesque village setting. While many praise the ambiance and the art, some guests have reported inconsistent service, particularly at reception, which can detract from the overall experience. The food is generally considered good, but the true draw is the immersive artistic environment.
"I enjoyed a lovely lunch here.
I was a walk-in, but since I arrived right after they opened, I was able to get a table. After that time, I think it’s better to make a reservation.
We shared the escargots for the starter, and it was nice that they were served separately on individual plates.
For the main, I ordered foie gras. The presentation looked a bit simple, but the taste was delicious! The cabbage underneath was slightly sweet and went very well with the foie gras and sauce.
The interior design of the restaurant is beautiful, and I found the restroom to be very clean and well-maintained."
Elina
"I tried to walk in for food or drinks and the staff was very rude. Door guy looked me up and down and then consulted his coworker - who told me I can’t come in. They said it’s for people staying there and after asking questions I learned guest of the restaurant are allowed too. I was by myself and I think they judged me and discriminated too - I saw open table and offered to sit at the bar - which they said they had. Very disappointed and to come all this way to be treated so rude!! No kindness or honesty."
Kali Bliss
"If you want to be mistreated By the woman at the reception, then this is the place to go.
I kindly asked to charge my phone the woman at reception (blonde, curly hair) immediately said yes… then followed it up with, “But turn it off, I don’t want it ringing the whole time,” in the most unnecessarily arrogant tone. I was honestly taken aback. Is that how you speak to clients?
Still, I let it slide. But when I went back to collect my phone after lunch, it wasn’t even charged. I asked if I could leave it a bit longer and she replied, “This isn’t a supermarket, find another outlet.” After leaving a big tip and having spent hundreds at lunch .At that point I was stunned. I took my phone and walked away, in absolute disbelief.
I told my sister what had happened and we asked to speak to the manager to which one guy , with a smug smile, told us, “Sorry, they’ve all left.”
It’s a beautiful location, yes but the treatment we received was nothing short of rude and dismissive. There’s a fine line between exclusivity and entitlement, and unfortunately, this place seems to confuse the two. Hospitality should feel warm, not humiliating.
And they say hospitality was born in France. I get the whole attitude I’m not rude, I’m French but honestly, it’s getting downright boring."
Christina Boenneken
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Colombe d'Or is located in the picturesque village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. If arriving by car, be aware that parking within the village can be challenging. There are public parking lots available outside the ramparts. Many visitors arrive from Nice or Cannes, which are about a 30-40 minute drive away. Public transport options include buses from Nice.
Parking in Saint-Paul-de-Vence can be difficult, especially during peak season. It's recommended to use the public parking areas located outside the village walls and walk up.
While possible, walking from nearby towns is not typically recommended due to distance and terrain. It's best to drive or take a bus to Saint-Paul-de-Vence and then walk within the village.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You do not need a separate ticket to see the art. The art collection is integrated into the hotel and restaurant. Visiting for a meal or staying at the hotel grants you access to admire the masterpieces.
It is highly recommended to book your table at La Colombe d'Or restaurant well in advance, especially for lunch, as it is very popular. Some guests suggest booking weeks or even months ahead during peak times.
The hotel and restaurant have specific operating hours. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on dining times and hotel availability.
While some visitors have reported being turned away for walk-ins, especially if not staying at the hotel, it's best to have a reservation for dining. The staff's reception to walk-ins can vary.
There is no entrance fee for the hotel itself. Access to the art is typically gained by dining at the restaurant or staying as a guest.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
While not strictly formal, a smart casual dress code is generally recommended for dining at La Colombe d'Or to match the elegant ambiance and artistic surroundings. Avoid beachwear or overly casual attire.
Yes, families can enjoy the unique atmosphere and art. The outdoor pool is a plus for children. However, the focus on art and a potentially more formal dining experience might be better suited for families with older children or those who appreciate art.
You can expect to see an impressive collection of modern art, including original works by Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Georges Braque, Marc Chagall, Fernand Léger, and Alexander Calder, among others.
Yes, La Colombe d'Or features a lovely outdoor swimming pool, offering a relaxing escape amidst the historic setting.
The atmosphere is a unique blend of laid-back charm, artistic sophistication, and historic grandeur. It feels like stepping into a living art gallery with a rich past.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The restaurant serves classic Provençal and French cuisine, focusing on fresh, regional ingredients. Expect well-prepared dishes that complement the artistic setting.
La Colombe d'Or is considered a fine dining establishment, and prices reflect the quality of food, the exceptional art collection, and the historic location. It is a splurge, but many find it worthwhile for the overall experience.
While specific recommendations vary, guests often praise the regional specialties. Dishes like asparagus, beef, and chicken with rich sauces have been mentioned positively.
Information on a dedicated children's menu is not widely available. It's advisable to inquire directly with the restaurant when making your reservation if you have specific needs for children.
Yes, the bar is often accessible for drinks, though access can sometimes depend on the time of day and whether you have a dining reservation.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, especially to capture the art and ambiance. However, be mindful of other guests and avoid intrusive photography, particularly during meals.
The entire property is a photo opportunity! Key spots include the dining room with its art-covered walls, the terrace, the garden, and the charming hotel rooms.
Yes, you can take photos of the art for personal enjoyment. However, always be respectful and avoid flash photography if it might disturb others or the artwork.
For commercial photography or professional shoots, it's essential to contact the hotel in advance to obtain permission and understand any associated fees or guidelines.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the village and hotel exteriors, while the art inside is visible throughout the day. Evening light on the terrace can also be very atmospheric.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be mindful that the dining experience might be more formal, and the focus on art might not hold the attention of very young children for extended periods. It's advisable to book dining reservations and perhaps inquire about any family-friendly options or considerations when booking. The hotel's historic nature also means rooms might have unique layouts.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore every corner, as masterpieces are found in unexpected places. The history of artists trading their work for hospitality adds another layer of fascination. Consider visiting the nearby Maeght Foundation as well for a comprehensive art experience in the region.
🥂 Couples Seeking Romance
+1Consider booking a room with a view and savoring the intimate dining experience. The timeless elegance of the hotel and the picturesque surroundings of Saint-Paul-de-Vence make it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway on the French Riviera.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art Collection: A Living Museum
+1Walking through the dining room feels like an immersive art experience, with paintings and sculptures seamlessly integrated into the rustic charm of the building. Even the guest rooms often feature unique artistic touches. This living museum aspect is what truly sets La Colombe d'Or apart, offering guests a chance to dine and stay surrounded by art history.
Visitors are encouraged to take their time and soak in the artistic ambiance. While photography is generally permitted for personal use, it's important to be respectful of other diners and the artwork itself. The sheer volume and quality of the art make it a pilgrimage site for art lovers visiting the French Riviera.
Dining Experience: Beyond the Food
Guests often highlight the charm of the terrace dining, especially on pleasant days, offering a delightful ambiance. However, some reviews mention that seating can sometimes be allocated based on guest status or origin, with non-French speakers occasionally placed in less central areas. This aspect, along with occasional reports of service that doesn't always match the grandeur of the surroundings, suggests that the dining experience is about more than just the cuisine.
Reservations are absolutely crucial, particularly for lunch, as the restaurant is a major draw. Booking well in advance is highly recommended to secure a table and experience this iconic culinary and artistic destination.
The Village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Exploring the village is a must-do activity when visiting La Colombe d'Or. Wander through its picturesque alleys, discover local crafts, and soak in the artistic atmosphere that has inspired generations of artists. The village also boasts the famous Maeght Foundation, a renowned modern art museum just outside the ramparts.
Combining a visit to La Colombe d'Or with a leisurely exploration of Saint-Paul-de-Vence provides a complete immersion into the art, history, and beauty of the French Riviera. The proximity of the hotel to the village's attractions makes it an ideal base for experiencing this iconic location.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit