Hold onto your sun hats, because the luxurious world of The White Lotus is about to get a major shake-up! The highly anticipated Season 4 will reportedly ditch its Four Seasons roots and set up shop at Airelles Saint-Tropez’s Chateau de la Messardiere. Yes, you read that right—it’s not a Four Seasons property this time, and that’s got everyone buzzing. But here's where it gets controversial: could this be the end of the show’s iconic partnership with Four Seasons, or is there more to the story? Let’s dive in.
The White Lotus has become one of my absolute favorite TV shows in recent years, thanks to Mike White’s genius storytelling and its unique travel-meets-luxury vibe. Each season takes us to a breathtaking hotel, blending drama with wanderlust in the most addictive way. With three seasons already under its belt—filmed at Four Seasons properties in Maui, Taormina, and Koh Samui—the show has become synonymous with opulence and intrigue. And now, Season 4 is expected to start filming later this year, with rumors swirling about a South of France location. Well, the cat’s out of the bag: it’s Airelles Saint-Tropez, a property that’s as stunning as it is exclusive.
Variety reports that the fourth season will be shot at Airelles’ Chateau de la Messardiere in Saint-Tropez, France, with filming scheduled between April and October 2026. But here’s the twist: while the hotel will be a major setting, the show won’t be confined to its walls. Expect multiple venues, including an unnamed Paris hotel, to add to the drama. And this is the part most people miss: Airelles, a boutique French hotel group owned by entrepreneur Stephane Courbit, is one of my all-time favorites. I’ve had the privilege of staying at all their properties, and let me tell you—they’re nothing short of spectacular. From the Chateau de la Messardiere to the Chateau de Versailles, each one offers an unparalleled sense of place and luxury.
But here’s the catch: while Airelles properties are already on the pricier side, Chateau de la Messardiere has become the it spot in Saint-Tropez, attracting the who’s who of New York and London’s elite. For those of us who cherish great luxury hotels without the overwhelming social scene, this is a bit of a bummer. Rates have skyrocketed, and reservations are harder to come by. Still, it’s easy to see why the property has become so popular—its beauty and prestige are undeniable, even if the scene isn’t for everyone.
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: why the sudden shift from Four Seasons to Airelles? The first three seasons were part of a strategic partnership between The White Lotus and Four Seasons, which was a win-win for both brands. The show’s fictional “White Lotus” hotel group may not have been an exact match to the Four Seasons properties, but viewers were still drawn to these locations, boosting their popularity and rates. With Season 3, the partnership even expanded, so it’s surprising to see Airelles take the spotlight now. Four Seasons has a stunning property in the South of France—the Grand-Hotel Du Cap-Ferrat—so what’s behind this change?
Was it a matter of cost? Did The White Lotus balk at the price of shutting down a Four Seasons hotel for filming? Or did the owners of the Four Seasons property in question simply pass on the opportunity? Maybe Four Seasons wasn’t willing to renew the partnership terms. Or, perhaps, Mike White fell head over heels for Airelles’ Chateau de la Messardiere. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a question that’s sure to spark debate.
As for Season 4’s plot, details are still under wraps. We know it’ll follow the familiar format of a week in the lives of hotel guests and employees, and rumors suggest the Cannes Film Festival might play a role—a logical choice given the location. But the bigger question remains: is this the end of The White Lotus and Four Seasons’ partnership, or just a temporary detour?
For Airelles, this is undoubtedly a huge win. The exposure will likely send their already-high rates through the roof and thrust the brand into the mainstream. As someone who adores their properties, I’m thrilled for them—but selfishly, I can’t help but mourn the potential loss of exclusivity. Still, change is part of the game, and I’m excited to see how this new setting influences the show’s tone and storylines.
What do you think about The White Lotus Season 4’s reported filming location? Are you Team Four Seasons or Team Airelles? Do you think this marks the end of the show’s partnership with Four Seasons, or is there more to the story? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss!
