France: Ramatuelle - Part 1

Ramatuelle, a small medieval village bathed in the golden light of southern France, has maintained its authentic charm and the region’s legendary hospitality. It is an ode to “slow attitude” in a bustling world.

If Saint Tropez and Ramatulle were sisters, the first would be the exuberant one, always ready to party and the second would be discreet, elegant and reserved. Just a few kilometres by Mini Moke form Saint-Tropez, Ramatuelle has retained the charm and authenticity that seduced actor Gerald Philipe in the 1950’s, to the point that he abandoned Paris at the height of his fame to move with his wife Anne to this small sun-drenched village where he wandered barefoot and smiling. It is carefree, graceful way of village life, a fusion of vineyard green and deep Mediterranean blue, which has always appealed to those who appreciate beautiful landscapes, small hidden coves and walks in the heart of unspoilt nature.

Perched on a hillside with breath-taking views over the Bay of Pampelonne, the village is closed in by ramparts from where you can see pink-tiled rooftops, old stone houses with period doors and windows, and pleasant narrow streets. The beautiful Notre Dame church dating back to the 16th century houses a bust of St. Andre, the patron saint of Ramatuelle, carved from the stump of a fig tree. Nearby, the maze of winding narrow streets stretches lazily throughout the village. The market, which is held on the square on Thursdays and Sundays, is an institution not to be missed.

Located in this idyllic setting, far from the commotion of everyday life, the hotel La Reserve Ramatuelle provides a unique tete-a-tete with the Mediterranean. Overlooking one of the most beautiful bays in the Cote d Azur, the building offers a truly magnificent view. From the lobby, the eye is gently drawn to the deep shades of the green of the trees to become lost, in wonder, in the intense blue of the sea.
The Mediterranean can suddenly reveal itself from the top of a staircase of around a corner, each time in a different aspect, but always fascinating. The serenity that emanates from the place is further emphasised by the dominance of natural colours warmed by noble and sensual materials such as wood and stone.

Paths lined with flowerbeds of rosemary and thyme that perfume the dusk air lead to the rooms and suites furnished by French architect and designer Jean-Michel Wilmotte.

Again, the communion with nature is exquisite, with large bay windows opening onto a terrace or private garden depending on the room or suite. The generous interiors are bathed in natural light and feature minimalist decor in soft tones of white and beige.

This art de Vivre unique to La Reserve Ramatuelle is also expressed in fourteen villas with pool, nestled in the heart of nature. Interior designer Remi Tessier has turned each of these Saint-Tropez style houses into a warm and intimate “home” with elements characteristic of the region such as terracotta floors and white walls perfectly married with sleek, contemporary furniture. The whole combination creates a joyful and comforting ambience, typical of a family house by the sea.