In our opinion, this is the most exciting opening of 2023 in France: the brand-new L’Occitane spa at the Couvent des Minimes in Provence. 2,500 m² dedicated to well-being, with multiple pools and a yoga room. This was all it took to convince Pascal Languillon, CEO of Luxe Wellness Club, to come and test the facility just a few days after it opened to the public. Below, he explains why the hotel is quickly establishing itself as one of Provence’s leading wellness centers.
A hotel with undeniable charm
Nestled not far from Mane, in the heart of Provence and the Luberon Regional Nature Park, the historic walls of the Couvent des Minimes have given way to a superb 5-star Relais & Châteaux hotel. Built in 1613 on the initiative of Marquis Melchior de Janson, the Couvent des Minimes has reopened its doors after a metamorphosis into a hotel with a modern, refined design .
I went there on a rainy day in late October 2023 with my little family. Despite the veiled sky (a rarity in the region), I was struck by the beauty of the setting. The terraced estate extends over eight hectares, elegantly overlooking fields of lavender and flowers. The four-century-old building captivates visitors with its bright, simple architecture.
The reception room (just divine) is none other than the former chapel! At the reception desk, young men wearing uniforms in almost stern tones. However, clothes don’t make the man, and she’s a very smiling, welcoming woman who made me feel at ease from the outset.
First observation: the décor is warm, blending beige tones, raw materials and a refined aesthetic. The convent offers a true interlude of serenity.
The exterior design is just as successful. The superb heated outdoor pool is extremely tempting! What can we say about the restaurant’s terrace around a magnificent plane tree? It certainly made me want to come back in the summer…
Ultra-comfortable rooms
The room we were assigned was the Meinado Terrace Suite. I found it both charming and spacious, with, as with the rest of the establishment, the use of natural materials in neutral tones. The very comfortable XXL bed, the glass wardrobe that holds the bathrobes and accessories provided by the hotel, the wooden desk… It’s all chic and simple at the same time.
The suite features a sitting area during the day, with a sofa bed that transforms into a children’s bed after dark. A terrace invites you to bask in the sun and the view. Nothing to say, the room is superb and we could see ourselves spending a whole week there!
In the beautiful bathroom, you’ll find both a spacious shower, even with a bench, and a cocoon-like bathtub. I particularly liked the L’OCCITANE welcome products, as well as the brand’s soaps and shower gels, which smelled delicious.
One of France’s most beautiful spas
Now let’s talk about the centerpiece of the establishment in my opinion: the brand-new Spa L’Occitane, which occupies an entire modern building with green roofs.
This extraordinary oasis covers more than 2,500 m² , with an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, a hydrotherapy trail and ten attractive treatment rooms, including eight singles and two doubles, as well as a yoga room, a fitness room…
I was simply blown away by the beauty of the design of this exceptional spa. Numerous almost Japanese-style decorative touches combine with local materials. Spaces are generous and light is omnipresent. Special mention goes to the yoga room and sauna, both of which open onto the forest.
I also liked the design of the salt grotto, the sensory shower and the relaxation room. I have to say that of all my visits to luxury hotels in France, this spa clearly stands out, and in my opinion is truly one of the very best spas in the country .
What’s also important to emphasize is that this is not just a spa, but a complete wellness center, with sports coaching and expert dietary and nutritional advice . There’s even an herbalist’s shop that doubles as a healthy juice bar serving diet dishes. No need to leave the spa for a bite to eat!
I was lucky enough to meet Morgane, the charming naturopath at Le Couvent des Minimes, who is gradually bringing her energy to this wonderful project. She is also a yoga teacher, with many classes scheduled each week and accessible free of charge. I really enjoyed the session I had with her, which turned into a private lesson. I guess the other customers weren’t in the morning mood that day!
The range of treatments available is vast, and each protocol is designed around the four fundamentals of well-being: beauty, renewal, harmony and purification. What’s more, you can benefit from a tailor-made treatment for a totally personalized experience, or even choose one of our multi-day “Destination” programs, designed to meet your exact requirements. Contact us and we’ll be happy to guide you through the process.
Delicious cuisine with fresh produce
In the restaurants, too, the décor is pure elegance, featuring natural materials. Both restaurants offer a remarkable taste journey in a refined yet friendly atmosphere. I was only able to sample the joys of Pamparigouste, the pretty bistro, preferring to return next time for Feuillée, the gourmet restaurant, which is less suited to dinners with the kids…
The dishes are delicate, using fresh local produce to celebrate Provencal gastronomy. I particularly loved the prawn and lemon risotto!
Breakfast is sumptuous, with plenty of healthy options (vegetables, nuts,…), fresh juices, salmon and eggs… not forgetting the delicious homemade pastries.
Our feeling
Le Couvent des Minimes is a marvel, and its brand-new L’Occitane spa one of France’s new wellness jewels. Magnificent design, generous volumes, comfortable rooms and brio in the kitchen… Everything you need for a successful wellness experience. The icing on the cake: the hotel is open all year round.
Luxe Wellness Club
Book the Couvent des Minimes Hotel & Spa L’Occitane
Take advantage of our expertise in wellness breaks and contact us for a personalized quote for the Couvent des Minimes .
Rates : From around 360 euros per night in low season. Wellness programs from 800 euros for 3 days. Enjoy exclusive Luxe Wellness Club benefits.
Call us for the USA on +1 (646) 980 6652 or for the UK on +44 20 4577 3258
