St. Paul may be France's prettiest hilltop town. Villa St. Maxime is an independent and worthy reason to come here. Some years back the charming American owners found an unfinished structure, and completed the Villa as a purpose built B&B, with amazing public spaces inside and out, which perfectly capture views of the town above and the valley below that stretches down to Nice and the Mediterranean. Whimsical art pieces throughout the Villa perfectly fit the happy mood.

We had a Sea View room, which although slightly cozy and simply decorated, had an excellent bed, large tile bathroom and big sliders opening onto a generous balcony that brought great light and views into the room. Given so much room to spread out on the Villa's deck and other public spaces, the simple bedroom was more than adequate.

As a location, St. Paul provides an ideal base for seeing the area. Our excellent day trip to Monte Carlo, Eze and Nice was a breeze, made all the better by knowing we had the comforts of the Villa to return to.

This is not a B&B that expects guests to be up and out in the morning. A cooked breakfast (great baked goods, but don't miss the omelet!!) is available until at least noon, but my sense is that even later risers will be gladly accommodated. Some guests appeared never to leave the premises, preferring to soak in the rays at the swimming pool. Complementary cocktails (including olives and other light munchies) appear around 6 PM and remain available throughout the evening. I think the owners were genuinely disappointed the evening we passed on the G&Ts (we did so only because we were heading to a wedding reception at a nearby gallery).

We fully enjoyed our 3 nights at the Villa, and would definitely stay here again on our next trip to the area.

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.