La Ponche

La Ponche, a five-star hotel and seaside restaurant in the heart of Saint-Tropez, comprises 21 authentic, renovated rooms and four apartments, many with striking views over the bay; a private pontoon gives direct access to the cove. The restaurant and bar occupy a historic space frequented by artists and filmmakers since the 1950s; the bar, famed since 1949, is associated with Boris Vian and Brigitte Bardot’s film world. Marine Bon Mugnaïni directs the restaurant. Wellness includes a spa with La Mer facial treatments, massages, yoga on the pontoon and bespoke retreats with coaching. Dining spans a curated breakfast through à‑la‑carte evening plates alongside a legendary bar programme of signature cocktails. The dining room is elegant and candlelit with cotton tablecloths, and the sea‑facing terrace is soothed by the sound of waves. The bar retains a historic black‑and‑white checkered floor, deep sofas and a large fireplace, creating a convivial, intimate evening vibe. Chef Simon Pinault leads a kitchen of Provence‑inflected Mediterranean dishes built on local vegetables, fresh daily fish and market produce procured from carefully selected regional producers. Specialties include rock fish soup; grilled catch of the day; beef fillet with chanterelle mushrooms; Parmesan and wild mushroom risotto; warm chocolate mousse with Fior di Latte ice cream; and chef’s picnic baskets (gazpacho, Niçoise, burrata).