THE STORY: We can finally return to the Presqu’île de Giens! After many long months of renovations, the 37 bedrooms and four suites of the historic Provençal hotel have reopened their shutters at last. Perched on the rocks overlooking the mare nostrum, this storied hotel – founded in 1951 by monsieur Marius Michel, the former star chef of Le Lido – has played host to some of the most memorable chapters in the French Riviera’s history. Since 2021, the entire property (which includes a two-hectare estate and four restaurants) has been run by his two grandsons, Damien and Benjamin Piffet, along with their wives Julie Liger and Lene Arentsen. The foursome called upon interior architect Rodolphe Parente to bring some classic 1950s elegance back to the space. Now gleaming once more, the hotel brims with panache: rich cherry red tones and dark oak fill the lobby; Provençal craftsmanship and a rustic fireplace warm the lounge; mustard-yellow velvet furnishings and flowing drapes adorn the Pocket Bar; sunshine yellow, almond green or candy pink carpeting brightens the bedrooms, with headboards crafted from mahogany or colorful cork. And the entire space is dotted with works by emerging artists who have a connection to either the Villa Noailles or Provence – sometimes both – including Maximilien Pellet, Paul Bonlarron, Perrine Boudy, Hugo Capron and Johanna Solal. Double rooms starting at €130 a night.
TOILETRIES: Fragonard body wash, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion.
BREAKFAST: €25 for the buffet.
LITTLE LUXURY: Enjoy the sunrise from the legendary pool carved into the rockface.
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