Three hours from Lyon, at the end of the highway and a few bends in Haute-Provence, a former convent hides a well-kept secret: a spa crowned the best eco-spa in the world in 2026. Between old stones, terraced gardens and views of the hills, this refuge has everything you need for a perfect weekend away from the city. And above all, it is unlike any other spa hotel.
Behind this title is the Couvent des Minimes, Hotel and Spa L’Occitane en Provence, located in Mane, in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. The 17th century building, transformed into a hotel and spa in 2008 then completely renovated before its reopening in 2023, was voted best eco-spa in the world 2026 and best country hotel spa in France 2026. With its 2,500 m² spa, it has become a flagship address for sustainable well-being.
Le Couvent des Minimes, 5-star spa hotel between Lyon and Haute-Provence
Built in 1613 to accommodate a religious community, the convent gradually changed its life before reinventing itself as a 5-star Relais et Châteaux hotel. Today, it has 49 rooms and suites distributed between the historic building and extensions perfectly integrated into the landscape. Everywhere, the decoration favors natural materials and soft tones to let the southern light shine.
From Lyon, it takes around three hours by road to reach Mane, a village not far from Forcalquier and the Luberon. Once past the porch, the contrast with the highway is immediate: cloister, terraces facing the hills and gardens of Mediterranean species invite you to pack your bags for a whole weekend. The address is clearly aimed at urban dwellers looking for calm, gastronomy and XXL spa without taking a plane.
The L’Occitane Spa in Provence, a 2,500 m² sanctuary
Covering 2,500 m², the Spa L’Occitane en Provence has a range of equipment. There is an indoor swimming pool, an outdoor Nordic pool, a hammam, two saunas heated to 70°C and 90°C, a salt cave, sensory showers and several relaxation lounges. This set makes it one of the largest, even the largest hotel spa in France, designed as a real sensory journey between hot water, steam and controlled cold.
The spa has 10 treatment cabins, including 2 double ones for duo rituals. Beyond massages and facial treatments from Spa L’Occitane en Provence, the program includes yoga classes, fitness sessions, naturopathy consultations and workshops as well as personalized coaching. The space is mainly reserved for adults, with very supervised access for those over 16 accompanied, and it also welcomes external customers by reservation for the wellness course.
Why this Provencal spa was crowned best eco-spa in the world 2026
The 2026 prize list named it “Best eco-spa in the world 2026” during the 2026, a prize which rewards each year the major players in well-being tourism. Le Couvent des Minimes also won the title of best country hotel spa in France 2026, confirming its status as a separate destination. These distinctions are in addition to previous regional awards, which had already drawn attention to the address.
Behind the scenes, the sustainable dimension is not a marketing argument. The Spa L’Occitane en Provence benefits from the Ecocert Greenlife label, and the hotel uses geothermal energy to provide 100% of its heating and air conditioning, according to its general manager Fabien Piacentino. A field of deep-drilled wells feeds a system that significantly limits the carbon footprint while guaranteeing constant thermal comfort. Between patient restoration of the 1613 building, local materials and plants and discreet technology, the address ticks the boxes of sustainable luxury three hours from Lyon.
Is the Couvent des Minimes spa accessible without staying at the hotel?
Yes, the spa course and treatments at Spa L’Occitane en Provence are accessible to external customers, by reservation only and subject to availability. It is recommended to book well in advance for weekends.
Does Spa L’Occitane en Provence accept children or teenagers?
The spa is designed primarily for adults. Access is generally reserved for those over 18, with a possible tolerance for 16-17 year olds accompanied by a parent, during defined slots.
How big is the spa at the Couvent des Minimes?
The L’Occitane en Provence Spa extends over 2,500 m² with several pools, a hammam, two saunas and 10 treatment rooms, making it one of the largest hotel spas in France.
How to get to the Couvent des Minimes from Lyon?
From Lyon, it takes around three hours by car to reach Mane, in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. The simplest route follows the axis of the Rhône valley before branching off towards Forcalquier.
What distinctions has the Spa L’Occitane en Provence received?
The spa was voted best eco-spa in the world 2026 and best country hotel spa in France 2026, in addition to previous awards which already recognized the quality of its well-being offer.
