La Réserve Ramatuelle Near Saint-Tropez, Côte D’Azur Michel Reybier’s retreat is a winner on the Presqu’ile A few minutes from the fabled village of Saint-Tropez, but far from crowds and noise, is a place preserved from the hustle and bustle. A vast private domain nestled in the Provencal garrigue, lulled by the song of cicadas, and with a spectacular view of the endless sea, La Réserve Ramatuelle overlooks one of the most beautiful bays on the French Riviera. 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 creation of Jean-Michel Wilmotte, one of the designers behind Doha’s Museum of Islamic Art, the hotel uses floor-to-ceiling windows and open balconies to capitalise on the region’s famed light. With natural stone in ochre 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. Mediterranean Masterpieces 18
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