Couvent des Minimes
A luxurious spa hotel in Provence, set in a former convent, offering L'Occitane wellness and fine dining.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds at the spa
Couvent des Minimes
Best Time
Fewer crowds at the spa
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A luxurious spa hotel in Provence, set in a former convent, offering L'Occitane wellness and fine dining.
"This was the highest quality hotel in every aspect and one of the best we stayed at ever."
Book Spa Treatments Early
Secure your spot at the L'Occitane spa by booking in advance, especially for popular treatments. :massage_stick:
Dinner Reservations Crucial
Book your table at the Michelin-starred restaurant well in advance. Walk-ins may be difficult. :forkandknife:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
L'Occitane Spa Oasis
Spa Area
Indulge in a vast 2500m² spa with saunas, jacuzzis, and a range of L'Occitane treatments. Pure bliss awaits.
Michelin-Starred Dining
Restaurant Le Feuillée
Experience exquisite Provençal cuisine in an elegant setting. A culinary journey for discerning palates.
Tranquil Hotel Grounds
Gardens and Courtyards
Wander through historic grounds, soak in the serene atmosphere, and enjoy the picturesque Provençal landscape.
Outdoor Pool Relaxation
Pool Area
Unwind by the outdoor pool, enjoying the sunshine and gentle breeze. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Spa & Wellness Focus
Dining Reservations Essential
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Spa Treatments Early
Secure your spot at the L'Occitane spa by booking in advance, especially for popular treatments. :massage_stick:
Dinner Reservations Crucial
Book your table at the Michelin-starred restaurant well in advance. Walk-ins may be difficult. :forkandknife:
Consider a Day Pass
If not staying overnight, a half-day or full-day spa pass offers a taste of luxury. :ticket:
Explore the Grounds
Take time to wander the beautiful, historic grounds. It's a peaceful escape. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Spa Treatments Early
Secure your spot at the L'Occitane spa by booking in advance, especially for popular treatments. :massage_stick:
Dinner Reservations Crucial
Book your table at the Michelin-starred restaurant well in advance. Walk-ins may be difficult. :forkandknife:
Consider a Day Pass
If not staying overnight, a half-day or full-day spa pass offers a taste of luxury. :ticket:
Explore the Grounds
Take time to wander the beautiful, historic grounds. It's a peaceful escape. :walking:
Pack Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore the expansive property and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Le Couvent des Minimes offers a beautiful setting with a highly-regarded L'Occitane spa and elegant dining, though some guests find service inconsistencies and high prices. While the property's charm and spa facilities are frequently praised, occasional lapses in service and operational details can detract from the expected five-star experience for some visitors.
"Came on Sunday in a family of four. It’s not yet the “ Four Seasons” experience and service but close though it was more experience. In our one night stay we went to swim. Their swimming pool was really great for me who did 1,000 meters swim.
We had two meals plus breakfast. The outside bar had great view and we were fortunate to have a wonderful weather and comfortable breeze to soothe the heat. They had few selection which was somehow of disappointment because we didn’t have lunch but we managed to order few dishes. It was not absolute excellence but simply fair. Those dishes kept us to a late dinner where we tried to reserve a table at their Michelin rated restaurant but to our dismay. We had to just walk in at their bistro. Their recommended 800gr entrecôte was good however came to us cold. After few slices we had to ask to warm them.
My wife and daughter had their bookings for spa being turned down but they could enjoy the facility inside the spa and they absolutely satisfied.
I came for late breakfast. I found lack of fresh fruits and hot dishes. Their selection of bread and flour based breakfast were great.
Overall, my family was satisfied and think it was the high expenses. The service was impeccable and very polite.
The rooms were very clean and bright because they just finished their renovations in 2023."
L K
"We arrived at the hotel after staying in three 5-star hotels in the Provence region, and without a doubt, this was the highest quality hotel in every aspect and one of the best we stayed at ever.
The staff welcomed us warmly and graciously, and the room we received was exceptional. Both dinners - one at the Michelin-starred restaurant and one at the bistro - were excellent (opposed to another review I read here, the staff was fully aware of our dietary restrictions) and throughout our two-day stay, we enjoyed outstanding service.
Additionally, the hotel’s structure and rooms are tastefully and meticulously designed, conveying a sense of both luxury and comfort.
One comment to take into consideration is the relatively high food prices at the restaurants and the outdoor bar. For example at the Michelin stared restaurant we paid 450 euros for a 5 course dinner including a 77 euros cost of wine. This is the highest price we paid for 1 star restaurant. The food was delicious and service was excellent but still pricy."
AHL
"I stayed at le couvent des minimes in June and had a wonderful experience. The room was beautifully appointed, extremely clean and chic. The grounds were magical, filled with history and natural beauty. I spent a good deal of time at the spa relaxing and enjoyed a spa service. Spa staff were very kind. The gentleman who checked me in was excellent as well. Would love to visit again."
Kathleen Morris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Le Couvent des Minimes from Marseille is by car, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A7 and A51 motorways. Alternatively, you can take a train from Marseille to Manosque-Gréoux-les-Bains and then a taxi or local bus to Mane.
Yes, parking is available for guests. However, some reviews mention that valet parking may not always be available late at night, requiring guests to park themselves.
The closest major airport is Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), located about an hour's drive away. From the airport, you can rent a car or arrange for a private transfer.
While possible, it's less straightforward. You can take a train to Manosque-Gréoux-les-Bains and then a taxi. Relying solely on public transport for the final leg might be challenging.
Yes, it's a popular destination for day trips, especially for its spa facilities. However, booking spa slots in advance is highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, booking spa treatments and even day passes in advance is highly recommended, as slots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. +1
Prices vary. A weekday half-day pass is around €70, a weekend half-day pass is €85, and a full-day pass is €120. These prices can change, so it's best to check their official website. +1
Yes, you can opt for a half-day pass (weekday or weekend) or a full-day pass, which grants access to the spa facilities. Treatments are booked separately.
Yes, you can visit the grounds and potentially dine at the restaurant or brasserie without staying overnight, but access to the spa facilities typically requires a booking or a day pass.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official website or contact the hotel directly for the most up-to-date information on spa operating hours.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The hotel offers a luxurious L'Occitane spa, an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, beautiful gardens, and multiple dining options including a Michelin-starred restaurant and a brasserie. +1
Yes, the spa is open to outside guests, but hotel guests sometimes report issues with overcrowding and outside guests occupying areas meant for them.
It's described as a magical, fairy-tale-like place with a serene and luxurious atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and romantic getaways. +1
Yes, some reviews mention that rooms were recently renovated in 2023, featuring clean and bright decor.
Yes, Wi-Fi is typically available throughout the hotel for guests.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There's a Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Feuillée, and a more casual brasserie. An outdoor bar is also available, offering great views.
Food prices are considered relatively high, especially at the Michelin-starred restaurant. A 5-course dinner with wine can cost around €450.
It is highly recommended to make a reservation for the brasserie, even if you are a hotel guest, as it can get busy.
Yes, the staff is generally aware of dietary restrictions, but it's crucial to communicate them clearly when booking and ordering.
Breakfast typically includes a buffet with fresh fruits, bread, and pastries, as well as à la carte options. Some guests noted that à la carte items like boiled eggs or avocado toast might incur an extra charge.
📸 📸 Photography
The spa area, the elegant hotel interiors, the manicured gardens, and the outdoor pool offer stunning photographic opportunities. The fairy-tale ambiance is very 'Instagrammable'. +1
Yes, the spa's design and ambiance are very photogenic. However, be mindful of other guests' privacy.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, professional shoots might require special permission. Always be respectful of other guests' privacy.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for the grounds and exterior. Midday can be good for the pool area.
Yes, food photography is common, especially in the elegant dining settings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the spa is a major draw, it's primarily geared towards adult relaxation. However, the pool area provides a great alternative for younger guests. Dining options can cater to families, but it's wise to check menus for kid-friendly choices and be aware of the higher price points. Booking family rooms or adjoining rooms in advance is recommended.
💖 Couples Seeking Romance
Consider booking a spa treatment for two or enjoying a candlelit dinner at the Michelin-starred restaurant. The beautiful grounds also offer serene spots for quiet moments together. Opting for a room with a view can further enhance the romantic experience.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Spa Enthusiasts
It's essential to book your spa access and any desired treatments in advance, as these passes are popular. Arriving early can help you make the most of your time and enjoy the facilities before they become too crowded. Remember to check the specific pricing for weekday vs. weekend passes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The L'Occitane Spa Experience
It's crucial to book spa appointments well in advance, as they are highly sought after. Day passes are available for those not staying at the hotel, offering access to the facilities for a set period. Prices for half-day and full-day passes are available, with weekend rates typically being higher than weekday rates.
While the spa is a major draw, some guests have noted that it can become crowded, with outside visitors sometimes impacting the experience for hotel guests. Planning your visit during off-peak hours or booking treatments during less busy times can enhance your relaxation.
Culinary Delights at Le Couvent
The brasserie provides a more casual yet still elegant dining experience. While some guests have found the food to be good, others have noted issues like cold dishes being served, even after ordering. Reservations are strongly advised for both dining venues, as they are popular with both hotel guests and external visitors.
Breakfast is served indoors and typically includes a buffet with a good selection of bread, pastries, and fruits. However, some guests have expressed surprise at additional charges for à la carte items like boiled eggs or avocado toast, which is not always standard in comparable luxury hotels.
A Glimpse into the Hotel's Charm
Rooms are often described as beautifully appointed, clean, and chic, with recent renovations enhancing their appeal. The overall ambiance is one of tranquility and elegance, making it a popular choice for romantic getaways and relaxing breaks.
While the aesthetic is widely praised, some reviews point to operational inconsistencies that can detract from the five-star experience, particularly concerning service during busy periods. Despite these occasional service hiccups, the hotel's inherent beauty and the appeal of its Provençal location continue to draw guests seeking a luxurious escape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit