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From Nice airport it was a pleasant tootle along the twisty N8 coastal road. I was heading for the tiny town of Théoule-sur-Mer where they say, the water quality around its cliffs is the best in Europe.
I had chosen the Tiara Yaksta boutique hotel for its discreet location and found it was so hidden that I passed it at least three times. But no matter, the iconic views over the yacht-dotted seas and hilly Côte d'Azur backdrop made the detour well worth while.
I eventually spotted the small turning that leads the way to this stone, terracotta-hued property.
Part of the charm is that it's built into the hillside and overlooks the azure waters of the Mediterranean sea. The website says it has the accolade of being the most romantic in Europe - and those views certainly help.
There are just 21 rooms over three levels and the décor throughout has more than a dab of eastern promise – tiled floors, richly coloured walls, exotic artworks, opulent dark wood furniture, and enrobed beds - all add to a sense of romantic occasion.
I was greeted at the small but beautifully scented reception and led to a gloriously located terrace with - it has to be said - those views, for a welcome glass of champagne.
My room had en suite with a bath, all the mod cons, a set of music cds and a cd player. Its small balcony with a table that looks out onto the ocean was a great space for an early evening aperitif.
Not much goes on in the area other than a sprinkling of shops and bars, but the hotel's heated infinity pool and luxurious day beds set in the hotel gardens, is a restful way to while away the time. Their sister hotel down the road, the Miramar, has a beach for guest use.
For a little action the pull of St Tropez was compelling, so I caught the ferry at Saint-Raphael (around 20 minutes drive away) for a day out in this chic Riviera town.
I later returned grateful to experience some peace and quiet once again and enjoy some fine dining at their L'Or Bleu restaurant and a final night-cap on their terrace.
RATES: From 200 euros plus 29 euros for breakfast
TEL: +33 (0)4 92 28 60 30