In the sun-drenched south of France, Lou Calen, a luxury hotel in the village of Cotignac offers South Africans an authentic Provençal getaway where olive groves, local wine, and relaxed luxury meet at a fair price for world-class comfort.

Around two hours east of Marseille and just over an hour’s drive from Nice, Cotignac lies in the heart of the Var region, surrounded by vineyards and limestone cliffs. Lou Calen has transformed a cluster of 18th-century stone buildings into a 30-room boutique estate with a tranquil pool, lush gardens, and uninterrupted valley views.

Rates start from about €220–€350 (roughly R4 500–R7 000) per night in high season, including breakfast and access to on-site art exhibitions and concerts. It is not cheap but compared with five-star city hotels it offers richer value through space, food, and serenity.

At the Michelin Green-Star restaurant Le Jardin Secret, seasonal tasting menus cost around €70 (R1 400) per person, paired with regional rosés and olive oils. Guests can also book a Provençal cooking class, a private truffle hunt or a cycling tour through the vineyards for about €50–€120 (R1 000–R2 400).

Day trips to the turquoise Gorges du Verdon for kayaking, or coastal towns like Saint-Tropez and Cassis, are easily arranged through the concierge. Evenings bring open-air film nights, wine tastings, and jazz concerts under the olive trees.

For travellers seeking slow living and understated elegance rather than glitz, Lou Calen captures the south of France at its best; beautiful, local, and quietly indulgent without being excessive.