Even before its renovation, this hotel was a well-kept secret. The location of its pool, right on the water’s edge, is reminiscent of the grand Italian palaces on the Amalfi Coast , minus the exorbitant prices. Now that it has been revamped, it is likely to become the new hotspot of the south. Nestled on the Giens peninsula in a lush pine forest, Le Provençal boasts an exceptional seaside setting. This family-run establishment consists of several distinct entities: the hotel, a restaurant and a brasserie on the village side, and, further down, a spectacular swimming pool carved into the rock, a second restaurant, a tennis court and vacation homes on the Mediterranean coast. Acquired in the 1950s by Marius Michel, chef at the Lido, who gave it a sophisticated aura, Le Provençal is now run by his grandsons, Benjamin and Damien Piffet, and their partners Lene Arentsen and Julie Liger. Eager to breathe new life into this family business, the team undertook a major renovation in 2023, entrusting the project to Parisian interior designer Rodolphe Parente, his first hotel project. The result is a collection of eclectic spaces with old-fashioned charm, reminiscent of a large family home. The decorator designed timeless pieces (table d’hôte, wrought iron light fixtures, plaster wall sconces), favoring a discreet style. The original 1950s fireplace, designed by local architect Léon David, has been restored to its former glory. Rodolphe Parente’s main challenge was to ensure comfort in winter without compromising the lightness of summer.