In the village of Saint-Paul de Vence, a boutique hotel created by three brothers offers a restful blend of contemporary art, Provençal charm and understated luxury.
For those after a peaceful Provençal escape with a dash of modern elegance, Toile Blanche offers a refined mini-break just a short 40-minute drive from Monaco. Set in the hills above the Côte d’Azur, in the quietly creative village of Saint-Paul de Vence, this suite-only boutique hotel is a calm, design-led alternative to the busy Riviera.
The project is the brainchild of the Leroy Brothers—Gilles, Gregory and Nicolas—who, after careers as contemporary artists, turned their focus to transforming a modest B&B into a 22-suite retreat with lush gardens, two pools and a private villa. The suites are spacious, many with plunge pools, and finished in muted tones with natural materials and thoughtfully chosen artwork. Eco-friendly details, from Les Choses Simples toiletries to a tree planted for every stay, reflect a considered, personal approach.
Art still plays a central role. The on-site gallery, Toile Blanche Contemporary, hosts changing exhibitions featuring works by the brothers and their creative circle. Around the property, rooms and communal spaces double as informal galleries where everyday life quietly overlaps with artistic expression.
The food is as well judged as the interiors. Chef Nicolas Leclair leads the kitchen with menus that blend local tradition and a light modern touch. At lunchtime, La Guinguette invites barefoot dining under the trees with relaxed sharing plates—grilled octopus, saucisson bridé and the like. Come evening, Le Restaurant shifts to something more polished, serving the likes of roast turbot and duck foie gras on a terrace overlooking the valley.
There’s an easy warmth to Toile Blanche. Guests are often welcomed by one of the brothers, a reminder that this is still very much a family affair. It’s not luxury in the traditional sense, but something quieter and more meaningful—a place for rest, reflection and creativity.
Whether you’re browsing art, lingering over lunch or simply soaking in the stillness of the hills, Toile Blanche feels like a true escape—close enough to buzz of Monaco, yet a world away.
