Review of La Reserve Ramatuelle, by Matt Morley

La Reserve Ramatuelle is located a mere ten-minute drive from central St.Tropez but feels a world away from the ostentatious glitz and glam of the town centre. Indeed, this spa-with-rooms has physical health and spiritual well-being as its distinctive raison d'etre. Consequently, you'll find a low-calorie restaurant menu, contemporary cool décor and outdoor activities such as yoga, hiking and golf on offer.

Service is provided by a youthful, well-trained team of French and Italians dressed in pristine whites; professional without being overtly formal, the intention is to make guests feel comfortable enough to wander through the resort in their spa gowns, if they so wish.

A 1000 sq m spa sits at the heart of the site, offering an exclusive range of Crème de la Mer facials and La Reserve's own signature massages from 13 treatments rooms with views of the Mediterranean. An indoor swimming pool is located next to the Technogym fitness room that comes equipped with the latest Kinesis equipment and an on-site Personal Trainer.

The stunning, 30m outdoor pool meanwhile is surrounded by a plethora of sun loungers, all-weather bean bags and concealed speakers that keep the laidback soundtrack playing right the way through to sunset. Guests are also encouraged to visit the small town of Ramautelle for the morning market and to make use of the many running paths leading down to the nearby beaches.

A total of 16 suites and 7 rooms are on offer, each with south-facing terraces or private gardens that add considerably to the sense of private space. Clean, crisp lines and the neutral colour tones throughout mean the bedrooms wouldn't look out of place in a B&B Italia catalogue, while the white stone bathrooms have more than a hint of Japanese zen about them.

Extra large amenities, rain showers, bathtubs and the all-inclusive mini-bar also help reinforce La Reserve's generous approach to hospitality. Finally, dressing rooms and plenty of cupboard space mean guests checking-in for the full 6-day spa package have everything they need for an extended stay.