The South of France remains a sought-after destination this summer, particularly Arles and its surrounding regions. Beyond cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and renowned art exhibitions, travelers are seeking peaceful yet rejuvenating escapes where comfort meets experience away from the party-seekers in St.Tropez and the yachts typhoons of Cannes. This is where real French people spend summer and it’s all the more blissful.
Boutique hotels with pools, spas, and seasonal restaurants have become coveted retreats, offering a serene alternative to the bustling coastline, yet still within easy reach of Arles, the Alpilles, and the Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue. The latter, increasingly favored by hoteliers and chefs alike, offers unmatched proximity to nature. Join Whitewall as we uncover the premier addresses embracing the Provençal art of living, where nature, cuisine, and slow living take center stage.
Hameau des Baux
Courtesy of Hameau des Baux.
Set within five hectares of olive groves inside the Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue, Hameau des Baux offers panoramic views of the surrounding Alpilles. Just a short train ride from Arles, this 27-suite retreat is built around a serene, heated pool, an ideal setting to soak in the final days of summer with swimming, sunbathing, biking, hiking, or touring the countryside in a vintage cabriolet. On-site, La Petite Guinguette serves up seasonal fare sourced from the best local producers.
Art, too, is woven into every part of the experience, from original editions in the suites to curated exhibitions by Double V Gallery in shared spaces, many of which reflect nature’s poetic spirit and support emerging and local artists. Each autumn, artist residencies bring fresh energy where participants are given full creative freedom.
What we love: Listening to live late night summer concerts under the stars.
Book your reservation HERE
Jules César Hotel & Spa
Courtesy of Jules César Hotel & Spa.
In the heart of Arles, the Jules César Hotel & Spa merges heritage with haute couture. Housed in a former 18th-century Carmelite convent, this five-star property was reimagined by French couturier and Arles native Christian Lacroix. His signature style pulses throughout with bold color palettes, Baroque flourishes, and Camargue-inspired motifs, breathing new life into the historic space.
Guests can unwind in the seasonal outdoor pool, tucked inside a lush Mediterranean garden, a rare and refreshing oasis in the city center. At Lou Marquès, Chef Joseph Kriz crafts refined Provençal dishes using local, seasonal ingredients, each plate a vibrant reflection of the region and the property’s creative spirit.
What we love: Rejuvenating at Cinq Mondes Spa.
Book your reservation HERE
Le Mas De Peint
Courtesy of Le Mas de Peint.
Le Mas de Peint is a five-star boutique hotel set in a 17th-century manor, surrounded by the wild beauty of the Camargue—salt marshes, rice paddies, white horses, and black bulls. On its 550-hectare estate, bulls and horses roam freely, raised according to local tradition. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in the land through horseback rides, 4×4 safaris, bike tours, nature hikes, and secluded wellness retreats.
The property also produces Camargue rice, olive oil, and bull-based delicacies. Culinary offerings are led by Chef Juan Ipuz, who brings together his Colombian heritage with Camargue flavors to create refined, seasonal dishes. From the pool to the terrace to the restaurant, the flavors and atmosphere leave a lasting impression. For private stays or events, La Bergerie, a restored 18th-century building, offers a peaceful, secluded setting that embodies the spirit of the estate.
What we love: Observing native wildlife in their natural surroundings.
Book your reservation HERE
Le Cloître
Courtesy of Le Cloître.
Le Cloître, located in an old world building, allows its visitors to escape the busy city center. The intimate hotel is adorned with colors that represent Arles, and custom furniture made of raw materials that preserve rich history within the building. Unwind on the rooftop with the breathtaking view of the Cloister of St Trophime, and capture unforgettable memories through photos and conversation that will last a lifetime.
What we love: Exploring the bathroom’s special Végétalement Provence products.
Book your reservation HERE
L’Arlatan
Courtesy of L’Arlatan.
L’Arlatan takes a modern approach to stylizing its luxurious interior space by teaming up with artist Jorge Pardo. Colorful handmade mosaics lead visitors through the staircases and doorways, creating an atmosphere unlike any other. Boasting 35 guest rooms, a pool, a lush garden, and a calm courtyard, L’Arlatan offers a magical experience of culture and senses.
What we love: Discovering the menu of Provencal and Mediterranean flavors at the hotel’s patio restaurant.
Book your reservation HERE
L’Épicerie du Cloître
Courtesy of L’Épicerie du Cloître.
L’Épicerie du Cloître in Le Cloître Hotel offers a dynamic range of dishes inspired by local products, as well as seasonings from Provence to Japan. The intimate outdoor dining area adds a rustic touch to the fresh ingredients, providing a serene escape for a memorable meal.
What we love: Enjoying dinner on the terrace with a glass of regional wine.
Book your reservation HERE
Le Nord-Pinus
Courtesy of Le Nord-Pinus.
The 100-year-old Le Nord Pinus is an elegant boutique hotel with an interior that evokes surreal charm and grand beauty. Chandeliers and wrought-iron beds add a unique touch to the renovated rooms, providing both comfort and unique detail. The 26-room hotel also offers Mediterranean cuisine and drinks in their intimate bar and restaurant, welcoming guests to a private or social night of wonder.
What we love: Visiting the delicatessen for high quality bites.
Book your reservation HERE
