A few months ago, it entered the Relais et Chateaux group and earned its place in the universe of exceptional hotels as wished by its founder, Philippe Gurdjian. Those terms are not just words, they fully justified.

The racetrack in Le Castellet has been part of the legend for a long time. Named after its father: Paul Ricard, has lost its public, except on some rare occasions, it opens its doors to privileged spectators and becomes a site for the best Formula 1 test-driving teams. During the elaboration of this project, you could sense feel the will to make a difference: the property was improving and a luxury hotel was under construction. The site was chosen! On a plateau of one hundred hectares, the horizon is split by two hills where an old traditional village at the top is watching, the old buildings are mixing up with harmony a “bastide” provencale, an Italian palace and a sunny hacienda, looking at the sea in the distance with an appropriate name: the Bay of Love. It can be written differently since the hotel also has a one-of-a-kind 4-holes golf course, very technical, among the pine trees, cypresses and box trees illuminated at dusk. Playing golf is one of the “fitness & leisure” pleasures, in a sophisticated setting, an indoor pool, a health track across the woods, on foot or on a mountain-bike and a tennis court.

Even before entering this refined universe you will be won over by its serenity. The lobby, majestic, has a long table with rare dimensions, over ten meters of lustrous dark wood. The SUD shop, in the lobby, is another place dedicated to luxury. Items hard to find, cashmere sweaters, plush, label watches, collection of pearly and silver napkin  rings, you will find plenty of gift ideas. Further, the bar has even more surprising dimensions. Some huge couches covered with pillows welcoming you that share the space by offering some private sitting-room with a big screen television in one corner. You could choose your room to be in the main building or from the villas on the edge of the forest. King-size beds, Big screen TV with DVD player, Wireless High Speed Internet, fax with a private number, elegant bathrooms, nothing is missing in any of those 47 rooms! But, we’ve kept the best for the end, literally: the restaurant. If the building is named after Edmond Dantes, logically the restaurant has been baptised Monte Cristo. Another hot spot! The young chef, Nicolas Sale, came last year after studying with Philippe Legendre, Pierre Gagnaire, Potel & Chabot, Lucas Carton, following his latest distinction, a first star on the Guide Michelin. A well deserved reward for this new team being led by Eric Descazaux, from the Crillon, while a young wine steward, Thierry Rondeau, is starting up. During April, the terrace could be opened for lunch, but you would get a better enjoyment if you wait for full spring. It is nice to stay warm in the comfort of this cosy restaurant. Nothing is needed to add to our happiness, other than sharing it with us. Can we invite you?

47 rooms from 320 to 750 €

Restaurant Le Monte Cristo, open every day.

RN8, 3001 route des hauts du Camp 83330 Le Castellet

Tel. : +33 4 94 98 37 77 www.hotelducastellet.com