If you're looking for somewhere on the Côte d'Azur that is a little away from the madness of the coast (but not too far), has fantastic service, is thoroughly quiet and relaxing and just generally that little bit special, look no further! The proprietors, Ann and John, are immensely friendly and welcoming and their knowledge of the local area is excellent.

Just a few of the pros:
* Champagne breakfast on the terrace - at the very civilized hours of 9:00 until 12:00 (try the poached eggs - they're something else).
* Service that is second to none - something of a rarity in this region of the world.
* Very large, private pool - with sufficient sun loungers for all the guests.
* Excellent rooms - with air conditioning and balcony.
* Complementary drinks in the evening.
* Small number of guests - 5 to 6 couples at maximum.

And cons? There I'm struggling; the only one I can think of is that wheelchair access would be difficult. However, I was on crutches during our stay and had no problems at all.

The local town, St. Paul de Vence is a very pretty medieval walled town. It's a little touristic, but then in this region of the world, where isn't? It's just a few minutes walk from Villa St. Maxime and there are lots of interesting shops, galleries, etc. to keep you interested.

I would (and already have) highly recommend this hotel to anyone.

I just completed my annual pilgrimage to the old country (Italy) and had particularly good luck this time. I drove from Stresa in Lago Maggiore up to Nice and found one truly excellent restaurant and two really fine hotels. I'm submitting those reviews as well. This review is about a hotel called Villa St. Maxime, north of Nice in the village of St. Paul. Nice little town by the way. A bit touristy, but quite beautiful. Nice to get away from the circus on the coast too. Anyhow the hotel was beautiful, amazing architecture. The rooms well equipped with stunning views (and air conditioned thank God!). A huge pool. Great free breakfasts in the morning. Their poached eggs are very special. And free drinks at night. Nice hosts, and good guests. Every night was like a small cocktail party on the terrace where we swapped stories. All in all, a great place. I'm coming back next year.

We were traveling to Provence and staying in St.Maxime for 3 nights
Nice and clean private BB villa near small town St-Paul.
Pluses: not so many visitors in hotel: when it is full 5-6 couples. Clean , Air condition
( very useful when it is 40C outside), quiet, nice and friendly english speaking owners.
Minuses : Accessibility is not perfect, small rooms, slightly overpriced. ( you could probably stay in Negresco on Promenade des Anglais for the same price  )
I would not recommend it for that reason.

If you're going to the Nice-region and like to stay not far from the airport but away from the crowds by the sea, take a few nights at this lovely villa. It's far from average...
In addition to what has been said here: there are few guests which makes it very calm, the tempo is slow (breakfast is served from 09.00) and the villa itself has great style in every detail. You just have to survive the tourist trap St. Paul with all its expensive restaurants. There are gems, but you have to be prepared to pay. A good choice is "Le Tilleul de Menthe" just inside the city gate to the left. Not cheap, but a good kitchen indeed. While in the area, you must not miss the "Fondation Maeght" art museum. It's a 15 min walk (upwards) from the hotel. The house itself is worth the visit and it's easy to see where the archithect of Villa St. Maxime got the inspiration...