A Hidden Estate in One of France’s Most Beautiful Villages Offers an Authentic Retreat Rooted in Slow Living, Sustainable Gastronomy, and Provençal Culture
In the heart of Provence, nestled within the historic village of Cotignac, officially recognised as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, Lou Calen is redefining the concept of luxury travel. More than a hotel, Lou Calen is an immersive escape into the rhythms of nature, slow gastronomy, and authentic Provençal living. Having quietly cultivated a reputation among in-the-know French travellers, the estate is now formally introducing itself to the UK market for the first time.
With four hectares of wild gardens, historic architecture, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability, Lou Calen is designed to be a retreat in the truest sense. Guests are invited to reconnect with themselves and their surroundings through mindful workshops, locally inspired cuisine, and the unfiltered beauty of Provence.
“True luxury is not in opulence, but in space: the space to breathe, to reconnect, to simply be,” says Graham Porter, the Canadian investor who has carefully revived the estate with a vision of cultural preservation. “Lou Calen offers something rare: an escape that feels entirely unforced. Here, nature leads, time slows, and travellers rediscover life’s richness through simplicity.”
AN IMMERSIVE RETREAT: WHERE NATURE LEADS
Unlike traditional luxury resorts, Lou Calen does not impose an experience—it invites one. There are no manicured lawns, no digital distractions, and no rushed itineraries. Instead, guests can immerse themselves in the slow, intentional rhythm of Provence:
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A landscape left to thrive – Wild gardens and natural surroundings create an uncurated sanctuary.
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Stay in seclusion or near the heart of the estate – Guests can choose rooms in the historic main building or secluded private residences.
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No TVs, no distractions, just presence – The absence of screens encourages guests to slow down and engage with their surroundings.
A DESTINATION FOR GASTRONOMY & MINDFUL CUISINE
Lou Calen is home to Le Jardin Secret, a Michelin Green Star restaurant led by renowned Chef Benoit Witz. With a hyper-local, zero-waste philosophy, the restaurant’s ‘Chef’s Menu’ changes daily, dictated entirely by what organic producers within a 50km radius deliver that morning.
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Farm-to-table, redefined – A commitment to seasonality, sustainability, and thoughtful preparation.
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Slow, intentional cooking – Meals are prepared à la minute to maximise nutrients, texture, and flavour.
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An unpretentious fine dining experience – Set in the original home’s layout, each dining space feels intimate and welcoming.
Alongside Le Jardin Secret is Le Bistrot, a more relaxed counterpart where the art of flame cooking meets global inspiration. Rooted in Provençal technique but influenced by worldwide flavours, Chef Benoit collaborates with Chinese and Thai chefs, exchanging culinary knowledge and adapting international dishes to local ingredients.
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On-site dry-aged meats – Specialising in long-aged cuts, cooked over an open flame.
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A place to experiment – A creative kitchen where flavours are playful, yet rooted in tradition.
LA TUF BREWERY & O’FADOLI: PROVENCE IN A GLASS
Lou Calen is also home to two unique drinking experiences:
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La Tuf Brewery – An on-site microbrewery led by Italian master brewer Michele, known for small-batch, experimental beers. Signature brews include an Apricot Ale, a Fig Beer, and the estate’s famous Mimosa Beer, crafted with hand-harvested mimosa flowers.
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O’Fadoli Pastis Bar – One of the only specialist pastis bars in France, featuring almost 80 varieties of the iconic Provençal aperitif. Self-taught expert Chloé curates pastis tastings, educating guests on the complex flavour profiles, much like fine wine.
A HUB FOR CRAFT, WELLNESS & MINDFUL EXPERIENCES
Lou Calen goes beyond hospitality, it is a cultural destination in itself. A rotating calendar of immersive workshops invites guests to rediscover their creativity, reconnect with their hands, and engage with Provençal traditions.
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Basket Weaving & Wood Sculpture – Mastering ancestral crafts with local artisans.
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Clay Modelling & Botanical Walks – Exploring Provence’s natural materials and healing plants.
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Drawing, Painting & Book Talks – Fostering creativity with local artists and authors.
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Sound Baths & Mindful Cooking Classes – Nourishing the mind and body through sensory experience.
A BASE FOR ‘FORGOTTEN PROVENCE’
While Provence is known for its lavender fields and luxury estates, Cotignac remains one of its last undiscovered gems. From its dramatic troglodyte cliffs to its historic town square, it offers an authentic escape from the Riviera crowds.
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The perfect base for a week in Provence – Within easy reach of Gorges du Verdon, Valensole’s lavender fields, and Provence’s best vineyards.
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A village unlike any other – Officially named one of the most beautiful villages in France, Cotignac is alive with local artisans, culture, and natural wonders.
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Easily accessible – Just 1.5 hours from Nice and Marseille airports, yet a world away from the typical tourist trail.
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