The vast majority of people never see inside the most glamorous French Riviera hotels. But recently, we were fortunate enough to stay in several new and renovated palace-style properties in Cannes and Nice. This video shows you the refurbished Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel, and the historic Hôtel Martinez, just down the street, with its impressive new spa and pool area. In Nice, the unexpectedly colorful Le Negresco is a classic luxury property where contemporary art complements antique furniture.

Along with making undercover hotel visits, we explored the small villages and towns in the Riviera, reveling in art, nature and some divine under-the-radar foodie finds. You’ll also catch glimpses of the famed Croisette in Cannes and the Promenade des Anglais in Nice.