A St. Tropez Retreat Away from the Madness

by  Anne Roderique-Jones | Oct 14, 2019
Villa Marie Saint-Tropez
Villa Marie Saint-Tropez / Villa Marie Saint-Tropez / Villa Marie / L. Di Orio, C. Larit, HKV & DR

As a part of the Maisons & Hôtels Sibue, Villa Marie Saint-Tropez, located in the quaint town of Ramatuelle, embodies the same chic aesthetic as the portfolio. Here’s what we found on our recent visit. 

The Basics

Budget Level: Luxury (rates from $306 per night, depending on the season)

Lodging Type: Boutique Hotel (45 rooms and suites) 

What You Need to Know 

The Look

Villa Marie Saint-Tropez / Villa Marie / L. Di Orio, C. Larit, HKV & DR

Tucked away among a hillside pine forest but easy to access, you'll feel as though you’re staying in the villa of a wealthy artist. Here, owner Jocelyne Sibue has personally handpicked items from different parts of the world that make up the eclectic Riviera aesthetic. The grounds are sprawling and lush, and there will be times that -- even if the property is full -- you’ll feel as if you’re the only one on-site. 

Sizable Bohemian-style guest rooms and suites are each unique in decor and feature a charming balcony with furniture, high-end bedding, and a boudoir-esque clawfoot tub that is plunked in the living space. It feels utterly romantic. If that’s not your things, there’s a stand-alone shower, as well.

Villa Marie Saint-Tropez / Villa Marie / L. Di Orio, C. Larit, HKV & DR

The spa is housed in a small building off the breakfast patio with three treatment rooms. It’s worth noting that Sibue created a product line, Pure Altitude, that is used in all treatments. (The products have since become coveted in France and beyond.) Even if you're not getting a facial or hot seashell massage, it’s still worth popping in the spa boutique for chic St. Tropez-style lounge wear, accessories, and beauty products. 

The Vibe

Riviera chic, but far away from the party atmosphere of St. Tropez. The clientele is smartly dressed and friendly, due to the intimate nature of the property. You’ll often see the same guests at the (absolutely amazing) breakfast spread or at dinner. However, you'll feel as if you have the place entirely to yourself. The grounds are comprised of lush gardens, trickling fountains, and private sitting nooks. We especially loved the “cactus garden.” The staff offers up the most friendly and welcoming service you can imagine. 

Who Will Love It

Couples and friend groups seem to dominate the crowd, though families appear to feel equally welcome. 

Who Might Not

Those looking for the Champagne-popping, all-day party atmosphere of St. Tropez. That said, the town center is a 10-minute shuttle away, and there’s a lovely bubbles list on offer at the hotel. 

Best Amenity

Villa Marie Saint-Tropez / Villa Marie / L. Di Orio, C. Larit, HKV & DR

Dolce Vita, the hotel’s restaurant is open for lunch and drinks, but come evening, the space turns into a romantic wonderland. Here, multi-course menus (with items like lamb with black truffle, lobster pasta, or lemon risotto) are served under a greenhouse-like glass room lit by candles. The decor here, like the rest of the property, is eye-catching and elegant. 

The lagoon swimming pool is a close second. It’s an oasis with a calming waterfall and super comfy loungers. Order a plate of watermelon and rosé from the poolside menu. 

Money Matters

What’s Included

The room rate includes in-room Nespresso coffee and water, wifi, Pure Altitude bath products, twice-daily housekeeping service with special turndown, a robust breakfast buffet with included menu items and crepe/pancake bar, and a free shuttle into St. Tropez. 

How to Get a Deal

The best way to get a deal is by checking the resort's website under the offers tab. Current offerings include spa and romance, as well as breakfast and dinner packages.

Getting There

In the Neighborhood

The property is located in Ramatuelle, and the easiest way to get to there is to drive or take the ferry into St. Tropez. The hotel offers an on-demand complimentary shuttle into St. Tropez center. Additionally, Villa Marie is just a short drive from the famous beaches of Pampelonne Bay. The town of Gassin is about a 20-minute drive.

Nearest Airport

Nice Côte d'Azur Airport can be reached in about an hour and a half; the hotel offers free parking. 

Nearest Public Transit

St. Tropez can be reached by ferry, in which service varies throughout the season. See the schedule here

The Bottom Line

This seriously chic property offers the comforts of home with the luxury found only in the French Riviera.  

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