The most iconic St. Tropez hotel property not actually located in the village, Chateau de le Messadiere sits in a removed country setting along the main Tahiti route to the Pampelonne beach clubs. A unique castle silhouette bolstered by four turrets and pinkish terra cotta façade, the location is preferred by those looking for a respite from frenetic village life in a setting infused with old world formality. An entrance flanked by rod-iron gate leads to a series of terraced courtyards with views that stretch over the bay and main reception framed in glassy art nouveau detailing and colorful blush interiors that exude a moneyed flair. A menagerie of styles is merged from colorful Provencal to deco revival meticulously maintained through its abbreviated seasonal opening.

Throughout the summer season the hotel hosts rotating art exhibits as well as classical music recitals in the lounge bar and reception spaces. It's also home to one of the area's best-regarded gourmands, Les Trois Saisons, captured within a sprawling dining room with summer terrace designed by Patrick Giorsetti Solay. The main hotel pool awash in parasols and sun loungers is an exception for those that prefer a rest from the nearby beach clubs with an all-day menu of spa specialties and spritzers amongst a Riviera backdrop and chirping birds of the adjacent wildlife sanctuary.

The Room:

The largest hotel in Saint-Tropez, Messadiere is home to a total of 118 rooms all overlook various angles of the 25-acre resort grounds that include an ornithological reserve. Entry-level King rooms mix native details like terra-cotta tile floors and rustic beam ceiling with ash-washed wood paneling or shaker shutter armoires and Louis XIV furnishings. Many room feature large outdoor terrace with sea views or suites with private patios arranged in chunky lounge furnishings by B&B Italia. All room categories feature Carrara marble or pumice bathrooms with stall-shower or soaking tub arranged in L’Occitane bath products.