There was a vague feeling of sadness as we left Villa St Maxime. It is such a relaxing happy place - an oasis of calm from the busy little streets of St Paul or the heavy tourism of Nice or Cannes. The owners are so laid back it transmits to the staff, guests and general ambiance. Lovely breakfasts available to midday (very civilised) and drinks before dinner add to the relaxation. Amazing views and pool - our only petty criticism would be that the toiletries are a bit spartan. For dinner we were impressed by the Tilleul Menthe for setting and food, the little lebanese restaurant just beyond it and the Colombe d'Or for glamour and the chance to gawpe at amazing art. Unimpressed by Le Vieux Moulin. For sights we liked the Matisse chapel at Vence and the scenary north of the Gorge du Loup to Coursegoules..

Villa St Maxime is just outside the walls of St Paul du Vence and an easy stroll up the hill to the city gate. It has a patio that overlooks the entire valley down to Nice and the Mediterranean Sea. The building itself is modern, extremely clean and neat. But the best thing about St Maxime is its hosts
Ann and John. They are the most accomodating, entertaining and helpful people I've ever met in the B and B business. The breakfasts are a wonder....No need to eat the rest of the day. From helping us plan an auto excursion to recommending restaurants and places to see and which to avoid, they were the best.

Wow! From the moment you arrive and are offered a welcome drink, the Villa oozes relaxation. Everything is peaceful and calm, despite it's close proximity to Nice and the touristy village of St Paul de Vence. There are only 5 rooms (we'd the smallest in the house which doesn't have a large balcony, and I'd stay in the larger one next time). Although it's only a B&B and has no restaurant, there is a bar, from which complimentary drinks are served before you head out for evening dinner - a lovely touch in a beautiful setting. The pool is pristine and the views from the terrace are fabulous. The staff are all friendly and helpful. Breakfast is delicious and is topped off by a glass of champagne, and there are even complementary bottles of water in the evenings - I could have stayed here forever! The focus seems to be on providing a relaxed, friendly and welcoming environment. I would say a "home from home" but my home isn't nearly as relaxing! I'd definitely recommend it and hope to be back very soon.

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.