À La Croix-Valmer, sheltered from the St Tropez hustle and bustle, a century-old residence tells another story of the French Riviera. That of discreet elegance, of a preserved Provençal art de vivre and of a heritage that transcends time. Welcome to the 4* Hotel The Orangery, a place that combines history and Mediterranean sweetness.
Table of Contents
Perched on the heights of La Croix-Valmer, near the magnificent Gigaro beach, This four-star establishment offers an unexpected escape just a few kilometres from one of the most publicised destinations in the world.
From convent to charming hotel: the metamorphosis of L'Orangeraie
Before it was a hotel, L’Orangeraie was a place to live. And even a place of refuge. At the end of the 19th century, as the Côte d’Azur began to attract European aristocrats and wealthy winter visitors, the building was constructed between 1898 and 1901 to house a convent orphanage run by the Sisters of Nazareth. Just a few years later, in 1905, the building was transformed into a hotel under the name Grand Hôtel.
Seaside tourism was then only in its infancy. Saint-Tropez was still a fishing port. La Croix-Valmer remained an agricultural village surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. More than a century later, the spirit of the place seems intact.
Successive restoration campaigns have helped preserve the historical elements that make the establishment so unique today: an old chapel, a white marble staircase, original terrazzo floors and elegant architecture typical of the Provençal Belle Époque.
From the hotel, everything seems accessible without ever suffering the summer bustle. In a few minutes, you can reach the beaches. In a few kilometres, Saint-Tropez.
And yet, each return to L’Orangeraie provides that pleasant feeling of finding a refuge.
Rooms open to history
The hotel has 36 rooms and suites. As soon as you enter the room, your gaze is drawn to its high ceilings and the immense terrace with views of the pool and gardens. Soft tones adorn the space: bright whites, sandy hues, natural beiges. They are all different. The same desire to preserve the spirit of the place can be found everywhere. Its generous volumes, high ceilings, and openings onto the greenery constantly remind you that you are staying in a building steeped in history.
A Mediterranean-inspired table
As is often the case in good establishments in the South, the kitchen occupies a central role. Under the direction of chef Henri Dambry, the restaurant at L'Orangeraie celebrates Mediterranean flavours with a sincere and contemporary approach.
Provence is celebrated here: sun-drenched vegetables, Mediterranean fish, aromatic herbs, olive oil, and products sourced from local producers. At lunchtime, the atmosphere is light and summery. Lunches are happily taken by the pool. In the evening, the restaurant takes on a more refined tone. The gardens take on an almost theatrical dimension. The building's façade provides a calming sensation.
The cuisine naturally follows this rhythm. On the menu, you'll find creations like Mediterranean sea bass fillet, roasted seasonal vegetables, and Var olive oil. A fine tart with seasonal vegetables, naturally. The bar complements this invitation to the art of living with a fine selection of Provençal wines and cocktails to be savoured while watching the sunset.
A plant-based interlude
The gardens are not merely a backdrop. They are a full part of the experience. Palm trees, Mediterranean plants and lush vegetation create a setting that shields the hotel from the outside world. The heated swimming pool is naturally integrated into this landscape. Around it, the sun loungers invite a form of contemplation.
L'Orangeraie: A Balcony Overlooking the Islands of Gold
In a destination often associated with its art de vivre and prestige, L'Orangeraie reveals another facet of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, more intimate and authentic. Behind its iconic landscapes lie a rich heritage, a unique history and a profoundly Mediterranean identity, to which the hotel offers privileged access.
At the heart of a constantly transforming territory, L'Orangeraie reminds us that true luxury is not only measured by comfort or exclusivity. It also resides in the beauty of a garden open to the sea, in the tranquility of a preserved place, and in the soul of a home that has stood the test of time.
Address
Boulevard Georges Selliez – BP 33
83 420 La Croix Valmer
+33 4 94 55 27 27
www.hotel-lorangeraie.com
Text : Laurence Grémy-Flamand
Photos : The Orangery
