Lily of the Valley
Gigaro Beach, France
This Philippe Starck-designed luxury wellness hotel sits nestled away from the buzz of the French Riviera on the hillsides south of St. Tropez. It’s surrounded by the untouched landscape of the Cap Lardier estate – a protected area known as one of the green lungs of the French Riviera – and overlooks the Plage de Gigaro, a wild, fine sandy beach which stretches over 3 miles long.
The hotel’s 52 rooms, suites, and pool suites (located opposite the hotel’s Beach Club) are spread out over several ‘houses’ which adds to the unassuming, pared-back approach. Each one opens to a large, private terrace with views onto the Mediterranean and the protected hills of the Cap Lardier estate. Replete with polished marble, exposed concrete, exotic woods, and natural leathers, both the interior and exterior adhere to Phillipe Strack’s only direction when commissioned to work on the hotel—that it must blend seamlessly with nature.
The story
The owning family of Lily of the Valley have been visiting Gigaro Beach for the last three generations, and co-owners Alan Weill and his daughter Lucie wanted to share the destination with the world. The hotel’s Shape Club – a sprawling 2,000m2 facility that offers bespoke programs, workshops, and treatments, motivated by a team of professionals who work under the guidance of the hotel’s consultant nutritionist doctor, Dr. Jacques Fricker – is a bold declaration of the owner’s commitment to being well.
Your stay
Villa W boasts views that have remained unchanged for 200 years. Set within its own grounds, Villa W has its own private access and parking space. Perfect for a discreet stay away, it’s a place where you can really unwind, recharge your batteries, and soak up this extraordinary, idyllic setting. A 17-meter lap pool runs along the entire length of the terrace, adding a colorful, arty touch.
How to spend your time
The beauty with Lily of the Valley lies in its ability to appeal to everyone, whether you’re taking part in one of the hotel’s wellness programs or not. Healthy food and activities abound, but often what people find most nourishing is the opportunity to rest, relax, and indulge. Let the hotel’s extraordinary staff prepare a private sunset picnic for you at Gigaro Beach or sample the delicious local seafood over the wood fire at one of the restaurants.
Fall in love with
The unique landscape that abounds: pine trees meet fine sandy beaches, lush gardens, and rolling hills. Lily of the Valley offers an endless list of activities to partake in too, both on and off the property, all of which really immerse you in the beauty of your surroundings, shirking the hedonist glitz St. Tropez is synonymous with.
Expect the unexpected
Over three miles of fine sand stretches along the beach of the Plage de Gigaro, which lies directly below the hotel. At one end, on the edge of the pine forest, sits the hotel’s own private beach, open from sunrise to sunset and home to Brigantine and Pépé restaurants. Lounge there for the day and feel your body and mind melt into the expanse of the Mediterranean.
The best time to visit
Spring and autumn always feel like the perfect time to reset your body and mind, while summer is made for joie de vivre.
More to experience with Querido
Round out your Côte d’Azur experience with a stay at Terre Blanche in Provence.
How to get there
Nice airport (NCE) is approximately 90 minutes away.