Retreat into Wellness in Saint-Rémy de Provence

Immerse yourself in art and nature in this history-laden town in the Alpilles. Nestling between Avignon and Arles, Saint-Rémy de Provence, the birthplace of French astrologer Nostradamus and once home to Vincent Van Gogh, now houses a vibrant community of artists, setting a creative scene as art galleries and antique shops line the cobblestone streets.

In the very heart of Saint-Rémy de Provence sits an oasis of calm and well-being. Le Saint-Rémy, a 19th-century townhouse turned 5-star hotel, elegantly outfitted in wood, rattan and stone from Provence as designed by Reyhana Tamboura, sets a welcoming bohemian-chic mood. Each of the 31 airy rooms is spacious and fully-stocked with 100% natural toiletries. The gourmet restaurant which extends to the expansive terrace invites for a light and savoury Provençal meal followed by a game of pétanque accompanied by the omnipresent sun. Set your sights on the bar lounge for an artisanal cocktail or purifying concoction.

The ultimate in R&R can be found beyond the shimmering outdoor pool at Le Saint Rémy’s 600 m2 indoor spa facility. It’s here that the idea of “Slow Life in Provence” takes on a holistic meaning. The goal of their spa “La maison du Tui Na“, led by specialists in Traditional Chinese Medicine massage, is complete well-being, detox and relaxation, both for body and mind.

Stop by the Saint-Rémy-de-Provence market, a weekly local affair that takes place on Wednesdays. (There’s also a Tuesday evening market all summer long.) Then hop on an electric bike available at Le Saint Rémy and ride up to the stunning hills of the Alpilles. This low limestone mountain range is set amidst an untamed landscape of pine and oak forests, with fields of lush olive trees stretching far into the distance.

What could be more detoxifying than inhaling fresh mountain air during an invigorating bike ride preceding an all-natural spa treatment? End the day at Le Saint Rémy with a yoga session adapted to every level and a wholesome meal illuminated by a glowing sunset. This is wellness defined.

Le Saint Rémy, 16 Boulevard Victor Hugo, 13210 Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Tel: +33 (0)4 84 51 04 51