La Réserve Ramatuelle

"Despite its proximity to the rocking scene in St-Tropez, six miles away, this discreet little oasis feels a world away from the high-octane glitz. Its 23 spacious rooms and suites, all with terraces or private gardens, have spectacular sea views and are nestled into a ridge overlooking a secluded cove near the medieval hilltop village of Ramatuelle. The hotel uses floor-to-ceiling windows and open balconies to capitalize on the region’s famed light, and underwent a gradual refurbishment with help from interior designer Jacques Garcia that was completed in early 2024. With natural stone in ocher and white and touches of unfinished wood, the undulating, interlocking structures create a modernist effect—a welcome change from the more classic and frumpy properties of the Côte d’Azur. And despite their simplicity, rooms are extremely comfortable, with plump white sofas positioned to let you gaze at the view. The sundeck hugs a 100-foot-long swimming pool, and there’s an indoor option in the spa for the cooler months. With understated but warm service and arguably the area’s best spa, La Réserve deserves an almost perfect score."