Lily of the Valley Hotel review: Wellness Retreat with Riviera Charm
Review: Lily of the Valley Hotel, Saint Tropez, France
25 June 2024
Framed by the sunlit hills of La Croix-Valmer and perched above the glittering shores of Gigaro Beach, the Lily of the Valley Hotel seamlessly blends refined luxury with a focus on wellbeing. Designed by renowned architect Philippe Starck, this magnificent hideaway combines sleek modernism with natural textures, creating a tranquil ambiance that whispers sophistication. Set amidst lush Mediterranean gardens and bordered by a nature reserve, the hotel feels like a private oasis—a peaceful retreat nestled on the edges of France's Côte d'Azur. With panoramic sea views, impeccable service, and its dedication to wellness, this is no ordinary coastal getaway. Instead, it’s a destination for those seeking a luxurious escape with a rejuvenating touch.
Accommodation: Where Elegance Meets Comfort
Rooms at Lily of the Valley are carefully curated spaces exuding understated elegance. Choose from sophisticated rooms, sumptuous suites, or sprawling private villas that feel like modern sanctuaries. Each accommodation features warm, earthy tones harmonised with natural materials like wood and stone, creating a soothing palette that calms the senses.
The views? They’re simply extraordinary. Many rooms open onto private terraces overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean or verdant hills, urging you to pause and savour the vistas. Each space comes equipped with plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and modern conveniences, ensuring your stay is as comfortable as it is stylish. Of particular note is the Deluxe Sea View suite, which features expansive floor-to-ceiling windows and an unbeatable sense of privacy. Every detail feels deliberately thoughtful, making it impossible not to feel pampered.
Dining: Mediterranean Fare with a Gourmet Twist
At Lily of the Valley, dining isn’t just a meal—it’s an immersion into the vibrant flavours of the region. Overseen by Michelin-starred chef Vincent Maillard, the hotel's flagship restaurant, Vista, redefines Mediterranean cuisine. The menu celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms and the surrounding sea. From silky burrata draped in basil oil to delicately seared sea bass served atop Provençal ratatouille, every dish feels like a culinary celebration.
The setting is equally exquisite. Whether you’re enjoying a sun-drenched breakfast or an evening dinner under a canopy of stars, the restaurant offers unobstructed sea views that add a touch of romance to every meal. Those looking for lighter, health-focused options will appreciate PÉPÉ, the hotel's wellness restaurant offering organic, nutrient-rich dishes - think refreshing quinoa salads and detox friendly smoothies perfect post-spa treatments.
Don’t forget to sample the wine. Guests will find an extensive list featuring regional varieties, from crisp Provençal rosés to full-bodied reds, handpicked to pair beautifully with each course.
Activities and Amenities: Wellness at the Forefront
Lily of the Valley's ethos centres around balance, showcased in its outstanding facilities. At the forefront is the Shape Club, offering everything from cutting-edge fitness equipment to guided yoga and Pilates sessions. The spa, with its tranquil atmosphere and skilled therapists, offers a range of luxury massages, facials, and body treatments tailored to your needs. A standout feature is their signature lymphatic drainage therapy, perfect for rejuvenation.
Looking to elevate your wellness journey? Personal trainers and nutritionists are available to craft personalised fitness programs and meal plans for your specific goals, whether it’s weight loss, detox, or relaxation. Additionally, enjoy the infinity-edge pool with breathtaking views of the coastline, providing a peaceful retreat after your sessions. For those craving adventure, the resort’s proximity to the beach allows for paddleboarding, kayaking, or leisurely swims just steps away.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
Saint-Tropez, a 20-Minute Drive Away: Few places evoke glamour like Saint-Tropez, which sits just 20 minutes from Lily of the Valley. This beloved Riviera hotspot has long been a playground for the rich and famous, and it's easy to see why. Wander its cobblestone streets lined with designer boutiques (don’t miss Dior’s stylish café garden), browse its lively market at Place des Lices, or sip champagne harborside at Le Sénéquier, a historic café that’s superb for people-watching.
Gassin, a 15-Minute Drive Away: Perched high above the Côte d’Azur is the medieval hilltop village of Gassin, a charming stop for any traveler. Its narrow streets, flower-filled courtyards, and panoramic terraces showcase breathtaking vistas over rolling vineyards and the blue expanse of the Mediterranean. Spend the afternoon dining alfresco at Le Piquebaure, a charming bistro famed for its Provençal menu and utterly photogenic terrace.
Why Lily of the Valley is Unforgettable
Lily of the Valley is more than just a luxurious retreat—it’s an experience. It’s where wellness blends seamlessly with indulgence, where interiors are as captivating as the views, and where every experience feels tailor-made for you. Whether you’re here to relax, rejuvenate, or explore the wonders of the Riviera, this hotel ensures your escape will be truly memorable.
Book your stay here, and prepare to fall in love not only with the French Riviera but also with yourself—restored, reenergised, and reveling in the opulence of Lily of the Valley.
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