In a remarkable feat of travel prognostication, a journalist for The Independent successfully forecast the filming location for the highly anticipated fourth season of HBO's The White Lotus. Ted Thornhill, the publication's US Travel Editor, correctly prophesied that the series would shoot at the opulent Château de la Messardière in Saint-Tropez, a prediction he made in an article published in April last year.
A Prediction Rooted in Luxury Experience
Thornhill's forecast, confirmed by recent reports, was based on his first-hand experience staying at the property. While considering potential locations for the hit anthology series, he drew upon his years as a travel journalist. The Château de la Messardière immediately stood out, possessing all the hallmarks of a White Lotus setting: sheer opulence, stunning sea views, an exotic French Riviera location, and multiple pools.
There was one initial doubt, however. All previous seasons have been set in Four Seasons hotels, in Maui, Taormina, and Koh Samui. Yet Thornhill speculated the scouts might opt for a change, especially given the inherent drama of the Château. The main building, constructed in 1904, was originally a wedding gift from cognac merchant Gabriel Dupuy d'Angeac to his daughter Louise and her husband, cavalry officer Henry Brisson de La Messardière.
Inside the 'Unforgettable' Palace Hotel
Recalling his own family stay, Thornhill describes the experience as filed in his memory's "unforgettable" section. The hotel, part of the Airelles Collection, holds the French government's prestigious "palace" rating, denoting properties that enhance the nation's global reputation.
The hotel's amenities are a significant part of its allure:
- Four swimming pools, including a signature shell-shaped mosaic pool, a 25-metre lap pool, an indoor spa pool, and a dedicated children's pool.
- An extensive Kids' Club Villa with a cinema, mini-farm, trampolines, and arcade games.
- Exemplary service, including a private Rolls-Royce Cullinan transfer to a beach club and thoughtful touches like a set-up wigwam and gifts for younger guests.
- Gourmet dining at the on-site Matsuhisa Saint-Tropez restaurant, offering Japanese cuisine with views over Pampelonne Bay.
Thornhill's family spent days relaxing by the mosaic pool, exploring the elegant gardens, and soaking in the atmosphere amidst a clientele whose supercars filled the car park.
The Perfect Backdrop for Television Drama
The editor had previously mused that actors at the Château de la Messardière would "have their work cut out" because the hotel itself is such a scene-stealer. Its hilltop position, surrounded by umbrella pines with views of superyachts in the bay below, provides the perfect setting for the series' signature mesmerising aerial shots.
With his prediction now confirmed, Thornhill offers one final forecast: a lot of viewers will be second-screening season four with the hotel's online booking page open. Rooms at Airelles Saint-Tropez, Château de la Messardière start from approximately £996 per night.
The revelation underscores the global fascination with the locations featured in Mike White's cult series, turning luxury hotels into instant bucket-list destinations and proving that sometimes, the future of television can be read in the tea leaves of travel journalism.
