1938–1939 :
A SEASIDE PENSION CAUSING A STIR

In 1938, the Association of Homeowners in Pyla-sur-Mer voiced concerns over two signs posted by the Capeyron agency advertising the sale of the "La Guitoune" guesthouse. The reason? These signs breached the seaside resort’s strict regulations, which required special authorization for any real estate activity.

On May 30, 1939, La Guitoune officially changed hands — becoming the property of Monsieur Sonthonnax.

1941–1945 :
THE WAR YEARS

From April 15 to October 15, 1941, La Guitoune was requisitioned by the occupying army. The hotel housed 30 soldiers, providing access to the dining room, daily service, and linens for three meals a day. An allowance of 10 francs per man per day was paid, while food was supplied by the military.

After the war, in 1945, Jacques Choisi succeeded Monsieur Sonthonnax as owner of the hotel.

1947 :
A STORY OF FAMILY AND FINE FOOD

La Guitoune’s golden era began in 1947, when Monsieur André Scappazzoni took over the hotel through the Capeyron agency. While he oversaw the dining room, his wife, Andrée Main — a true chef at heart — brought refined and generous cuisine to life. They were supported by their nephew Ubaldo, who handled the books, and their wartime godson Lulo Tesini, ever ready to lend a hand.

In those years, La Guitoune earned a name for its vibrant table: oysters with crépinettes, Bordeaux-style crayfish, foie gras from the Landes… all paired with the finest Bordeaux wines, from prestigious grands crus to lesser-known but equally delightful bottles. A celebration of local flavors that helped build the hotel’s legendary reputation.

1952 :
GROWING INTO SOMETHING GREATER

In 1952, La Guitoune expanded its footprint: a new restaurant wing to the north, a hotel extension to the south. Now owned by the Malnoé & Co company, the property was managed by Rosalie Héloïse Malnoé, wife of André Scappazzoni.

1958 :
A RECOGNISED ADDRESS

In 1958, Monsieur Scappazzoni formalized the offering of 17 rooms under the letterhead “La Guitoune — Owners Malnoé & Scappazzoni.” That same year, the Arcachon directory listed the hotel as a 3-star establishment, with full-board rates ranging from 3,000 to 4,600 francs.

1973 - 2000s :
A NEW CHAPTER IN MANAGEMENT

On June 14, 1973, La Guitoune came under the direction of Claude Émile Denis Heres, who became the sole manager of Scappazzoni & Co. A new chapter of stewardship began, carrying forward the family legacy.

2017 :THE REVIVAL

After nearly a decade of abandonment, La Guitoune made its grand comeback. Acquired by two locals from the Arcachon Bay, the hotel underwent a year-long renovation led by Bordeaux architects Philippe Ducos and Alexandre Rougier, and brought to life with the whimsical flair of Bambi Sloan — the most Parisian of New Yorkers. The result: a renewed space with retro charm and modern comfort.

2021 : A NEW CHAPTER

In 2021, La Guitoune was acquired by the Pariente family. Driven by Gérard and Gary Pariente, the hotel became part of INFLUENCE Hôtels & Destinations — their family hospitality group also behind La Bastide de Saint-Tropez, a 5-star Relais & Châteaux property. A new chapter begins, honouring the hotel’s vibrant, joyful and unconventional spirit.