I don’t often give my secrets away when it comes to what to do and where to stay during the Cannes films festival, which happens in May every year, the stars descend on this idyllic stretch of Cote D’Azur coastline, people, fans, press, flock in, in their thousands to hopefully catch a glimpse of their favourite movie star, The Bar at The Martinez is the very best celebrity spotting spot by the way and the prices treble for everything allowing the town and the locals to cash in.

It an exciting place during these 10 days if you can stand the hustle and bustle and have someone in the know to guide you and advise you.

There is no better hotel or location if you are looking for the magic of Cannes, in absolute prime location without the price tag of the Carlton International, The Martinez or the Majestic, where in the past you’d always find infamous movie producer Harvey Weinstein.

The place I always stay is La Villa Cannes Croisette. It’s an absolutely gorgeous beautifully refurbished stylish haven steps from the famed croisette.

This lovely off the beaten track boasts only 38 rooms so it really gives that intimate boutique feel without the eye watering price tag and it’s the kind of place you’ll meet very interesting people.

All the room have been refurbished with artistic interior touches, individually hand picked, it feels more like you are staying in a wealthy friends home than in a hotel.

Enjoy breakfast out on the terrace by the pool that is perfect for an early or late evening swim and everytime I have stayed it has never been packed. The beach is a few steps away so you are not permanently bumping into other guests.

I cannot rave enough about this gorgeous spot. Step out the front door and it’s a couple of minutes walk and you are on La Croisette and everything it has to offer. Sit and enjoy a cafe at the corner tabac or pick up baguettes and jambon for your picnic lunch at the market on the opposite corner.

You can even stumble home on foot from the famous Palms Night club on the Pointe, just by following the stand boardwalk all the way home.

I don’t do this anymore.

There are also a couple of magnificent Pied a terre apartments (very hush hush) for rent if you ask politely and want extra privacy and freedom.

The big hotels are definitely a scene with their exorbitant very French beach restaurants where the service is well French and the wine lists are extensive. This experience should definitely be experienced at least once if your can get a reservatio

But when it comes time to rest there’s nowhere I’d rather be than at Hotel La Villa Cannes.