The essence of Provence between tradition and luxury

 

Perched on a hillside, a few steps from the picturesque village of Mane, Le Couvent des Minimes enchants with its timeless charm. From a former convent dating back to 1613, it has been transformed into an exclusive luxury resort. Protected from the mistral by the majestic Volx cliff, the building is a perfect blend of medieval architecture and contemporary design. Its historic façades, terraced gardens and the striking via crucis overlooking the surrounding landscape provide an atmosphere of peace and wonder.

Le Couvent des Minimes Hôtel & Spa L'Occitane is more than a wellness retreat: it is a sensory experience that regenerates body and spirit. The first spa in the world to be awarded the prestigious ECOCERT ‘Établissement de Bien-Être Durable’ certification, it testifies to a deep commitment to sustainability.

Here Fabien and Valérie Piacentino, together with their team, have created an authentic hospitality experience: warm and welcoming, just like a Provençal home, to make each stay truly unique and unforgettable.

 

The extension of Le Couvent des Minimes

 

Committed to the transformation of Le Couvent des Minimes into a luxury hotel, architect Anthony Micoud at De Planta Associés Architectes was responsible for designing the extension housing an elegant wellness centre as well.

To ensure perfect harmony with the surroundings, the architect chose clean lines, flat roofs and hanging gardens reminiscent of the old restanques, the characteristic stone terraces typical of Provence. The result is an architectural work that enhances the beauty of the landscape, enriching it with a modern and refined aesthetic.

 

A temple of well-being: L'Occitane Spa

 

With a surface area of 2,500 m² perfectly integrated into the historical context of Le Couvent des Minimes, L'Occitane Spa is spread over three levels, accommodating 8 suites, 4 swimming pools, one of which is outdoor, and an exclusive boutique. Opened in November 2023, this spa embodies the perfect fusion of modernity and tradition, offering visitors a unique, complete, and rejuvenating wellness experience.

 

Geopietra^®: sustainable innovation in the heart of well-being

 

In the extension of the wellness centre, careful attention was paid to the selection of materials, to ensure perfect aesthetic continuity with the original construction and harmonious integration with the surrounding landscape. In line with the values of sustainable architecture, the architecture studio chose Geopietra^® manufactured stone, an innovative solution that combines the authenticity of tradition with a contemporary approach.

Used to clad both interior and exterior walls, Geopietra^® masonry creates a visual continuum that reinforces the dialogue between the architecture and its natural context. The result is a perfect balance between material and design, where every detail is designed to create an enchanting environment in tune with the historical heritage of Le Couvent des Minimes.

 

The custom-designed Geopietra® cladding

 

The light and dark shades of Geopietra^® manufactured stone cladding perfectly integrate with the entire site layout, both in the exterior and interior spaces of the extension. The masonry model, specially designed for this project, is intended to create a connection with the ancient structure, where natural stone plays a load-bearing function. The masonry profile is enhanced by the sophisticated Plus dry installation, which involves the absence of mortar in favour of the special GeoFit^® components, used to fill the gaps between stones, visually reproducing the effect of stability typical of traditional masonry.

Geopietra^® manufactured stone was used in various spaces: inside the spa, where it clads the pool and reception area, creating a relaxing and intimate atmosphere, and outside, where it alternates with large windows, blending nature and design in a play of transparencies that reflects the tranquillity of the surrounding landscape.

 

The tested and guaranteed Mastrosistema^® system

 

The commitment to sustainability also reflects in the integration of cutting-edge solutions in terms of functionality and energy efficiency. The cladding was applied with the aim of harmoniously combining aesthetics and technical performance. It was installed on external thermal insulation using the tested and guaranteed Mastrosistema^® system. This is the only system in Europe that has received the Avis Technique from the French public body CSTB (Centre Scientifique et Technique du Bâtiment), which serves as a guarantee of quality and safety for all designers.

 

Geocorner cornerstones

 

While the extension project is characterised by a bold and innovative vision, the original structures, located in a distinct core, were renovated using natural stone for its load-bearing function, while preserving the convent’s historical identity. In the restoration work on the facade of one of the buildings, Geocorner manufactured cornerstones, which reproduce the square corners of old buildings, were placed around the French doors. These elements provide an authentic and faithful appearance to traditional architecture.

 

A blend of tradition and modernity

 

In the heart of an enchanting landscape, Le Couvent des Minimes stands out as an oasis of peace and luxury. This former convent blends its historical heritage with modern requirements to offer an unparalleled experience of relaxation and well-being.

 

The header image is taken from: https://www.couventdesminimes-hotelspa.com/fr/