33 av de l Amiral Wester Weymiss, Cannes, France | (888) 635-3814
Fully equipped apartments with kitchenettes and terraces
Stunning panoramic sea views from many apartments
A large infinity-edge pool, and a smaller one (both seasonal)
Restaurant and bar offering catering during peak season
Free shuttle to city center
Tennis court, ping-pong tables, multi-sport court…
Kid-friendly amenities include a kiddy pool, night lights and high chairs
Far from Cannes and the beach
Some small, tired units with poorly equipped kitchenettes
Tiny master bedrooms in most apartments
Fees for Wi-Fi, parking, and loungers
Residence Villa Francia is a large, all-suites, mid-range property located on a hillside outside of Cannes. This locale allows for gorgeous sea views from many rooms and from the infinity-edge pool -- but apartments are a hit or miss, with some tired, poorly equipped units, and some renovated ones with nicer decor. It’s a decent pick for families, but note that there are plenty of fees (for loungers, Wi-Fi, parking, laundry…), and that the city center is not within walking distance.
Scene
An aging property with a few renovated apartments, and stunning views
The property is located on a hill overlooking the bay, making the gorgeous panoramic views the highlight here. The Residence has lots of potential, with several solid on-site features -- such as an infinity-edge pool, and a tennis court with lights for night play -- and apartments for up to seven guests. But only a few apartments have been renovated, and non-renovated units feel tired, with dated decor and poor maintenance. With more attention to detail, fewer extra fees, and extensive renovations to some apartments, Residence Villa Francia could be a great pick for families and groups. For now, guests should probably request a refurbished unit, and keep track of all the extra charges lest they receive an unpleasant surprise at the end of their stay.
Location
On a hill in the outskirts of Cannes
The hotel is located in La Croix des Gardes, a quiet residential area outside of Cannes. There isn’t much in the immediate neighborhood, and the city center is quite a hike from the property -- but this hillside situation allows for striking sea views hard to find in central Cannes. The hotel offers free shuttle service to the city center, but it’s a small van that doesn’t run every day, so renting a car may be convenient for those looking to spend the day in Cannes or at the beach. The city center -- including La Croisette Boulevard, the train station, the main shopping areas, and famous Palais des Festivals et des Congres -- is a five-minute drive away. Guests who choose to walk to town may want to note that the trip back is uphill, and can be a little challenging for kids.
Rooms
Apartments with kitchenettes and furnished terraces
The hotel offers 483 units, including studios, and one- and two-bedroom apartments. They all feature furnished terraces, and kitchenettes equipped with ovens, hobs, dishwashers, and mini-fridges. However, only a few have been refurbished, and non-renovated units are in need of urgent renovations. Master bedrooms in all apartments and studios are tiny, with just barely enough space for a double bed (touching two walls). The second bedroom in two-bedroom apartments features bunk beds. Non-renovated apartments have basic, dated decor and furniture, and plastic patio chairs on the the terrace. Renovated apartments feature more contemporary decor, nicer furniture, heated towel racks, and laminate floors. Many units have panoramic sea views; other overlook the gardens. The hotel allows up to 5 guests per studio, but these units are tight at maximum occupancy. Groups and families of more than three may want to book a larger apartment. Wi-Fi is available for a fee.
Features
Plenty of on-site amenities -- but few are free
The hotel offers a wide array of on-site features, from parking to a laundry room, to tennis courts, and kid-friendly accessories (such as night lights, high chairs, and small bathtubs). However, few are free, and extra charges can add up. Even those looking to use the poolside loungers will have to pay an hourly fee. There is a restaurant and bar offering catering to apartments during peak season. Other convenient amenities include a bakery, housekeeping services (free only once per stay), a small kiddy pool, and free shuttle to central Cannes. There are a small pool by the Van Gogh building, and several ping-pong tables scattered throughout the property. But the highlight here is the main pool, featuring an infinity-edge and stunning bay views.