Understated Luxury & Slow Living in St Tropez

Beyond the bustling port of St Tropez lies a hidden sanctuary where luxury takes on a new meaning. Hotel Lou Pinet, reopening on 7th May, offers guests a more authentic Riviera experience centred around Provençal charm, leisurely lunches under the sun, and peaceful moments by one of the largest swimming pools in the region. This refined retreat redefines opulence through simplicity and mindfulness—a philosophy increasingly sought after by today's sophisticated travellers
Picture of Elizabeth Jenkins-Smalley

Elizabeth Jenkins-Smalley

Editor In Chief at The Executive Magazine

The allure of St Tropez extends far beyond its glamorous reputation. Away from the yacht-lined harbour and celebrity hotspots, a quieter, more genuine experience awaits at Lou Pinet. This five-star establishment has masterfully created an atmosphere where time slows down, allowing guests to reconnect with the essential pleasures of the Riviera: warm sunshine, exceptional cuisine, and the gentle pace of Provençal life.

The hotel’s approach reflects a growing desire among affluent travellers for meaningful experiences rather than ostentatious displays of wealth. Lou Pinet responds with understated elegance, offering a sanctuary where the true luxury lies in having the time and space to savour each moment fully.

Enhanced Wellness Offerings

Lou Pinet debuts an exciting addition to its wellness programme this season with the introduction of a dedicated Head Spa. The new facility operates in partnership with Leonor Greyl, the pioneering French haircare brand established in 1968 and renowned for its botanical-based formulations.

The treatments combine natural ingredients with advanced hair science, providing guests with exclusive scalp therapies that go beyond aesthetic benefits. Each session includes deep cleansing, massage and relaxation techniques specifically designed to promote healthy hair growth while simultaneously alleviating stress. This holistic approach aligns perfectly with the hotel’s ethos of laid-back luxury and comprehensive wellbeing.

The Head Spa complements Lou Pinet’s existing wellness facilities, which include the Tata Harper spa with its two treatment rooms and hammam. This season also marks a new collaboration with TALM, bringing specialised treatments for expectant mothers to the property. The brand’s responsible skincare products are available for purchase, allowing guests to continue their wellness journey long after their stay concludes.

A Sanctuary of Serenity

Strategically positioned away from the town’s busier areas, Lou Pinet offers unparalleled access to the wonders of Southern France while maintaining an atmosphere of tranquil seclusion. The property boasts one of St Tropez’s largest swimming pools, creating a central oasis where guests can unwind in peaceful surroundings.

The hotel’s fitness facilities cater to those who wish to maintain their exercise routines, with day passes available for non-residents seeking access to both the fitness area and pool complex. This thoughtful blend of activity and relaxation options ensures that every guest can customise their experience according to personal preferences.

What truly distinguishes Lou Pinet is its ability to provide a comprehensive escape without needing to venture beyond its grounds. However, for those wishing to explore, the property’s location offers the perfect balance – removed enough to ensure peace yet close enough to allow easy access to the region’s many attractions.

Authentic Regional Experiences

The concierge team at Lou Pinet has curated a selection of experiences that showcase the region’s more contemplative aspects, allowing guests to forge meaningful connections with local culture and landscapes.

Coastal trails offer perfect opportunities for leisurely exploration, whether on foot or bicycle, with panoramic Mediterranean vistas at every turn. The hotel can arrange bespoke picnics to enhance these excursions, transforming a simple walk into a memorable dining experience against the backdrop of sea and sky.

The Gulf of Saint-Tropez houses numerous distinguished vineyards, and Lou Pinet facilitates private tours where guests can discover the secrets behind Provence’s celebrated rosé wines. These guided visits provide fascinating insights into regional viticulture while encouraging a slower, more appreciative approach to wine tasting.

For those interested in authentic local culture, the Saint-Tropez market presents an opportunity to observe and interact with artisans practising time-honoured crafts. Here, the focus shifts from consumption to appreciation – another hallmark of the slow-living philosophy embraced by the hotel.

Maritime Pleasures

The Mediterranean Sea plays an essential role in the St Tropez experience, and Lou Pinet ensures guests can engage with this natural asset in ways that emphasise tranquillity and mindfulness.

Early morning paddleboard sessions in the Bay of Saint-Tropez offer rare moments of stillness as the sun rises over the Riviera. These peaceful excursions provide a stark and welcome contrast to the area’s busier daytime atmosphere.

For those drawn to underwater exploration, snorkelling trips reveal hidden coves and thriving marine ecosystems beneath the azure waters. More adventurous guests might opt for kayaking from Pampelonne Bay to Cap Camarat, where dramatic cliffs meet crystal waters in a stunning display of natural beauty.

Each maritime activity is designed to foster a deeper connection with the environment while maintaining the unhurried pace that defines the Lou Pinet approach to luxury travel.

Cultural Enrichment

Beyond relaxation and natural beauty, the region surrounding Lou Pinet offers remarkable cultural experiences for those seeking intellectual stimulation during their stay.

An hour’s drive from the hotel, the Venet Foundation in Le Muy houses an impressive collection of contemporary sculptures set within peaceful gardens. This thoughtfully curated space invites contemplation and artistic appreciation in serene surroundings.

At the Commanderie de Peyrassol, history and oenology converge in a 13th-century Templar estate that now showcases both fine art and exceptional winemaking. The property’s outdoor art collection creates a fascinating dialogue between creative expression and natural landscape.

Perhaps most distinctive is the Carmignac Foundation on Porquerolles Island, accessible by boat from the mainland. Here, contemporary art installations exist in harmony with Mediterranean flora, creating an immersive experience that engages all senses.

Each cultural destination encourages a slower pace of engagement, allowing visitors to absorb and reflect upon artistic and historical nuances rather than rushing from one attraction to another.

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