Saint-Palais-sur-Mer, France
Hôtel Hemen
Restored Basque villa
Restored Basque villa
With just three keys, this seaside villa runs like an intimate beach house with its own garden pool.
What it’s good at
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
one of which is the 1920s villa that’s now home to the Hôtel Hemen, a luxury boutique hotel whose chic interiors and high-end comforts belie its low-key atmosphere.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Plage du Bureau lies directly opposite, looking out across the water toward the historic Cordouan lighthouse.
The rooms
Upper rooms look out to sea from private balconies. The ground-floor suite opens straight onto the garden and pool.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The lagoon-green pool sits in the garden beneath maritime pines, bordered by timber decking and cushioned loungers.
The spa
The subterranean spa holds an illuminated mosaic hot tub and daybeds set against warm limestone walls.
At the table
By Chez Bob pours evening cocktails in the garden, and the sister brasserie serves seafood platters overlooking the beach.
How it began
The villa was built in the 1920s as Hemen Ongi, Basque for 'here we are well'.
The app
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.