Get Immersed in Provençal Village Charm at Hotel Lou Calen

Located in the Var department of Provence and officially recognized as one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France (Most Beautiful Villages of France), Cotignac is delightfully out of the way, yet it delivers authenticity and postcard-perfect looks in abundance amidst its shaded squares, artisan boutiques, local cafes and vibrant Tuesday market. Even better, Hotel Lou Calen lingers in the heart of it all, allowing you to live out your Provençal village fantasies while staying in a rustically luxurious hotel that appeals to both kids and adults. Our founder and CEO, Amie O’Shaughnessy, recently returned from a stay and was utterly charmed. We think you will be too.

Hotel Lou Calen: Boutique Style Amid Authentic Provençal Village Life

CB: What makes this property stand out for Ciao Bambino! travelers?

Amie: Hotel Lou Calen is a gem, truly. It’s a 4-star, eco-conscious boutique property with just 36 rooms, but it feels expansive and full of character — a good choice for families and travelers seeking something in the heart of an authentic French village, yet with space to roam (it sits on 7.5 acres), a splash pool for kids and even a tennis court. It’s casual, full of Provençal charm without being too kitschy, and at around €350 for an entry-level room with village views, the value is unbeatable.

CB: Can you describe the village of Cotignac for families who may not be familiar with the area or with France?

Amie: Cotignac is one of the cutest villages I’ve seen in the south of France, about an hour and 15 minutes from Aix-en-Provence and two hours from Avignon. It’s set dramatically at the base of a cliff, and some of the oldest homes are built into the rock. It has everything you want your French village vacation to have: cobblestone streets, shady plane trees, adorable cafés and a weekly farmers’ market (Tuesdays). Hotel Lou Calen is a definite yes if you’re traveling to the South of France. It’s no wonder George Clooney and George Lucas both chose to have properties nearby!

CB: Can you share more about how the hotel caters to families?

Amie: The hotel has made thoughtful choices. There are three pools, one of which is designated for adults only, and a splash pool with a sandy bottom, giving it the feel of a small beach. There are a few multi-room configurations available for families, ensuring everyone has their own space. And the grounds are a bit of a natural maze, which is great for kids who love to explore. Lou Calen is low-key and not a “kids’ club” type of property, but for families who value togetherness in a French village, it works beautifully.

CB: How is the dining experience at Hotel Lou Calen?

Amie: The food is fantastic, simple, fresh and prepared with a lot of attention to detail. Their Secret Garden restaurant even boasts a Green Michelin Star, which speaks to their commitment to sustainability. Le Bistrot, meanwhile, leans into French classics and flame-grilled meat in a light and airy space that’s open every day. One night we had dinner for around €55 per person, and the quality blew us away. Everything is elevated enough but doesn’t feel fussy, which is perfectly on brand for laid-back Provence. You’ll feel welcomed and relaxed.

If you’re a fan of local brews, you can’t get more local than the hotel’s microbrewery, La Tuf, set up in a former laundry room (closed Sunday and Monday). There’s also a pastis bar, O’Fadoli, on site, with 80 kinds of pastis and absinthes.

CB: You mentioned the Tuesday market. What will we find there?

Amie: The market on Tuesdays is my new favorite in the region with loads of French goodies like spices, olive oil, wood products, beautiful fabrics and, of course, fresh locally grown and made food.

CB: How does Cotignac fit into a broader Provence itinerary? Could you use Hotel Lou Calen as a home base?

Amie: This part of Provence, the Var department, is still relatively under the radar, which is part of its appeal. The hotel is also well-situated to make it a peaceful home base for exploring other major French cities. So while Cotignac feels blissfully off the beaten path, you’re never too far from a cute café or a local market, and within a couple of hours of more iconic sites and hubs of Provence and the Côte d’Azur.

For first-timers to Provence, I’d recommend staying on-property for two days, exploring Cotignac, enjoying the market, sipping local rosé under the plane trees and dining at the hotel’s excellent restaurants. Then, if you want, move on to the Alpilles or the Luberon Valley, or nearby cities or coastal towns.

CB: What kinds of travelers should consider Hotel Lou Calen as part of their French holiday?

Amie: Families, couples and friends looking for an immersive experience with a touch of rustic elegance will fall in love with Hotel Lou Calen’s eclectic and stylish vibes. Anyone who wants to show their kids a more authentic side of France, or who appreciates relaxed hospitality in the heart of a Provençal village, will get the most out of it. Think of it as less tourist checklists and more authentic connections.

CB: Any tips for booking?

Amie: As is the case everywhere these days, if you have your heart set on an experience or a place, book early, especially in high season, to avoid disappointment. The town is small and the hotel, with only 36 rooms, fills fast. It’s open year-round, so off-season travel is also a worthwhile consideration.

CB: How does Hotel Lou Calen compare to other resorts in the area, like Château de Berne?

Amie: Château de Berne is gorgeous, but it’s different. It’s much more of a wine resort. It’s also more remote, not in a village setting. At Hotel Lou Calen, you get the best of great food and wine, warm hospitality and a setting that lets you walk out your door and straight into French village life.

To book your stay at Hotel Lou Calen, contact our Ciao Bambino Travel Advisor team today.

Relevant Links: 

Browse all accommodations and destinations in France on Ciao Bambino

52 tips for traveling in France with kids

5 favorite kid-friendly things to do in Provence

Top kid-friendly things to do in Sainte-Maxime, France

Photos by Amie O’Shaughnessy.

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.