Art & Wellness in the South of France
BY: NIHA REDDY
The South of France is synonymous with R&R, culture, and of course, the very best of food and wine. From the coastal scenery and lush landscapes of the French Riviera to the mountains and famed lavender fields of Provençe, there’s so much to see and do in this utopic destination.
We’re showcasing two of our favorite properties, both in a class of their own. Whether wellness, art, or design, each stands alone in the excellence and singularity of its offerings.
These locations make for ideal spring or summer trips, with fall and winter being low-season, so you can experience joie de vivre all year round.
LILY OF THE VALLEY
Hotel Lily of the Valley
Nestled in the French Riviera, minutes from Saint-Tropez, the showstopper at this Phillipe Stark property isn’t just the property itself but the splendid nature it showcases. Instead of impeding upon the local landscape, it’s clear the vision was instead to blend and adapt to it. Provençal architecture and Californian modernity exude warmth and ambiance at this stunning hotel.
The hotel is more than just an oasis for serenity; it’s also a place for wellness that offers 4, 7, 14, and 28-day programs geared towards fitness, detox, anti-aging, and stress reduction. The Lily Method combines the best of western science and eastern philosophies to tailor a wellness plan suited to your preferences and needs. Trust you’ll be in the best hands knowing all of the spa treatments and massages were developed by Gilles Szafiko, former private masseur to Catherine Deneuve and winner of Best French Masseur in 2017 from the Spas de France label thanks to his original creation: the Senso shiatsu. Lily of the Valley also offers the latest in leading French beauty treatments like the HydraFacial and famed skincare brand Biologique Recherche’s SKIN INSTANT LAB®.
CURATED EXCURSIONS
PRIVATE MUSEUMS & ART ISLANDS
Discover some of the finest art locales in the world on this curated excursion. Start at Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild on the Cap Ferrat peninsula, and take in the lush gardens. Then make your way past Queen Victoria’s winter residence to The Marc Chagall Museum in Nice where you’ll see permanent and temporary exhibitions of the artist’s paintings, drawings, and engravings. Visit the famed Matisse Museum located in a grand 17th-century Italian structure, which houses the artist’s personal collection, finally sweeping across along the French Riviera to Fondation Carmignac hidden away on the island of Porquerolles, among other museums tailored to the guest’s interests.
GRASSE, FRENCH COUNTRYSIDE, WINE TASTING
For the fragrance lover and floral enthusiasts alike, Grasse is a must-see as the perfume capital of the world. Revered by the top fragrance brands in the world like Dior, Givenchy, and Chanel, this countryside town is a delight for both the eyes and nose. While you’re there, you’ll take a guided tour of the famous Fragonard perfume factory to learn the secrets of the trade. Then, continue to Valbonne, a medieval village where you’ll discover the lively town square full of cafes and charming stone streets. Continue your explorations in Gourdon, which boasts panoramic views of the Riviera. While you make the journey home, stop at a local winery for a taste of the local terroir.
PROVENÇAL TASTING
The local specialties in Nice are not to be missed. Given it’s proximity to Italy, tasting the exquisite olive oil is a must before seeing where it’s made at the Windmill to learn about the process from start to end. After a picturesque drive through the countryside, you’ll continue to Mont Alban to see the fortress and take in the breathtaking views of Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer. Finally, we’ll guide you around the port area to explore the most popular “Nissart” specialties like socca, pissaladière, and rosé.
SAINT-TROPEZ, PORT-GRIMAUD
Cruise along the Mediterranean coastal mountain range of Massif de l’Esterel to Port Grimaud, nicknamed “Little Venice” for its tiny bridges, squares, and canals. When you reach Saint Tropez, relax at one of the best-known resorts to lounge by the beach or take in Places des Lys, a hot gathering spot for locals and celebrities alike.
VILLA LA COSTE
When it comes to destination properties, Villa La Coste is a sovereign entity for art and wellness escapes. With equal footings in the art, architecture, and hospitality worlds, Villa La Coste is also an estimable winemaker with an on-site biodynamic vineyard, Château la Coste, and an architectural marvel with an open-air contemporary art gallery. The visionary behind the operation is Belfast-born art collector and hotelier Paddy McKillen, who happens to be the art curator as well, sourcing from his own private collection including works from Louise Bourgeois and Alexander Calder.
Louise Bourgeois, “Spider”
If the property itself weren’t enough, the location would be enough to draw anyone in. Located nearby the historic town of Aix-en-Provence, home of Cezanne, and Luberon Nature Park, Villa La Coste sits on a hillside in your quintessential Provençal landscape and offers magnificent views of flora and fauna below.
CURATED EXCURSIONS
PROVENCE LAVENDER FIELDS
Make a trip to nearby Plateau de Valensole to discover the region’s point of fame: Lavander. After taking in the sights and the perfumed air, settle in for a traditional lunch at one of our recommended cafes. Then, spend the afternoon learning the secrets of the trade at world-renowned brand Occitane’s Provence factory where you’ll visit the workshops and labs. Lastly, explore the Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume commune for examples of the local Gothic architecture and see relics of the Sainte Marie Madeline basilica.
MARSEILLES, AVIGNON, PARIS
Excursions can also be tailored to nearby Marseilles, Avignon, Paris, and other cities upon request.