Como Le Beauvallon GM Pascal Le Roux on the Saint-Tropez hotel’s artistic charms

Pascal Le Roux: It is an honour, a deeply emotional experience and quite a responsibility. The Como Le Beauvallon carries more than a century of Riviera history, and one can feel that sense of legacy upon arrival. Our vision was to preserve the soul of this legendary property and gently restore its elegance, while introducing a contemporary and artistic energy. What makes it truly special is the harmony between heritage, culture, gastronomy, wellness and the relaxed sophistication that defines life on the Côte d’Azur.

 

I would absolutely take that as a compliment. Art was always intended to be part of the guest experience, with more than 300 curated pieces integrated throughout the property. Guests can discover moments of beauty and inspiration, whether through sculpture, design, light or architecture. There is a very residential, intimate feeling to Como Le Beauvallon and we would like travellers to see it as their home away from home.

 

Indeed, it has always attracted creatives, writers, artists and people searching for beauty and freedom of expression. Como brings a quieter, more refined interpretation of luxury to the destination, one rooted in authenticity, well-being, discretion and understated sophistication. Guests can immerse themselves in the vibrancy of the Riviera via an eight-minute boat ride to the heart of Saint-Tropez and then return to a place that feels calm, elegant and restorative.

 

Beauvallon has welcomed an extraordinary mix of personalities over the decades, from artists and writers to aristocrats and international icons. Historic guests include Winston Churchill, Colette and Audrey Hepburn, all drawn to the timeless glamour and discreet atmosphere of the property. What is fascinating is that even today, the spirit of the hotel continues to attract guests seeking privacy, inspiration and a more understated Côte d’Azur experience. There is a wonderful sense that the walls of the property still hold many stories.

 

Toi & Moi by Zheng Lu in the lobby, as there is something incredibly poetic and emotional about it. I also love The Never-Ending Painting by Tan Khoon Yong, as guests encounter it upon arrival and often leave with their own personal take and memory of it. Finally, I would choose the Conceptual Seating installation by Li Jiwei because it perfectly reflects what Como Le Beauvallon is about — creating memories and spaces that encourage conversation and connection.

 

Rather than traditional offers, we focus on highly curated experiences. Guests can enjoy holistic wellness journeys with Como Shambhala, daily free boat transfers to Saint-Tropez, and exceptional culinary experiences by chef Yannick Alléno. For guests staying in our Como Suites for three nights or more, we also provide helicopter transfers from Nice Airport directly to the property in about 18 minutes. Everything is designed to make the stay feel seamless, memorable and deeply personal.

 

I am currently reading a book centred on hospitality and human connection, which I find fascinating. In our industry, luxury is no longer only about beautiful spaces or flawless service — it is about how people feel and the memories they experience. I believe understanding human behaviour, empathy and emotional intelligence is just as important as operational excellence. Reading helps me reflect on how we can create more meaningful guest experiences.

 

My playlists evolve constantly depending on the atmosphere and moment. I am enjoying a blend of relaxed jazz, alongside contemporary electronic music, which also feels aligned with the spirit of the Riviera. There is a balance of sophistication and lightness that I find inspiring. Music plays such an important role in shaping emotion and ambience, especially in hospitality.

 

Bali is high on my list because of its spirituality, wellness culture and extraordinary natural beauty. I would love to go to the Como Shambhala Estate, our flagship wellness resort. I also hope to return to Italy for its incredible food and culture, as well as spend time at Como Castello Del Nero in Tuscany and Como Alpina Dolomites, both of which capture different sides of the country.

 

First, I would encourage them to experience Saint-Tropez early in the morning before the town fully awakens — there is something incredibly magical and authentic about that, and the boat ride from Como Le Beauvallon is the best way to start the day. Second, spend time wandering around the market on the Place des Lices and simply observe local life. Next, explore nearby villages such as Gassin, Ramatuelle or Grimaud, each with its own charm and breathtaking views. Finally, sip on an aperitif at the Port de Saint-Tropez while admiring the beautiful yachts and soaking in the timeless glamour and energy of the Riviera as the sun begins to set, before heading to dinner, followed by a visit to a nightclub. Also a must is a long leisurely lunch with a good rosé at our very own Beauvallon Sur Mer by Yannick Alléno — the latest hotspot for the 2026 season!

 

It would begin with a quiet breakfast overlooking the sea while the gulf is still calm and shimmering from the morning light. I would then spend the morning on a boat discovering the coastline around Cap Taillat and Cap Lardier. Lunch would be relaxed and Mediterranean — fresh grilled loup de mer, seasonal local produce, and a chilled rosé shared with friends by the beach. In the afternoon, I would explore nearby villages or some of the region’s quieter hidden beaches. The day would end with dinner outdoors under the pine trees overlooking the Golfe de Saint-Tropez, enjoying beautiful seafood, more rosé, music and long conversations late into the evening.