The Best of Provence
With breathtaking medieval villages, gently rolling country fields, a rich and varied cultural scene, and some of the finest food & wine in the world, France’s southern Provence is a sight for the eyes and the senses. Here is a sneak preview of some of our favourite places to explore and stay in the Provence region:
1. GORDES Perched precariously on the edge of the soaring Plateau de Vaucluse, Gordes is one of the most beautiful villages in France. With a myriad of ancient stone buildings & churches dating back to the 12th century all tightly clustered around a labyrinth of narrow lane ways, savour Gordes' spectacular panoramic views overlooking the Luberon countryside. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby medieval l'Abbaye de Senanque monastery surrounded by bright purple lavender fields during the summer months. Here are some of our favourite places to stay in and around Gordes:
* Le Mas des Herbes Blanche $$$ A beautiful 4-star Relais & Chateaux hotel set in a former farmhouse with panoramic views, cosy, charming rooms and a peaceful location 8km’s from Gordes. Website
* La Ferme de la Huppe $$ Located on the outskirts of Gordes, this peaceful 19th century silk-worm farm has been converted into one of the most charming boutique guest houses in the area. Website
* Au Ralenti du Lierre $ A charming, stylish guest house located 5 minutes drive from Gordes in the tiny village of Les Beaumettes with affordable prices, chic rooms & a leafy outdoor swimming pool. Website
2. ROUSSILLON Coloured in vibrant splashes of ochres, reds and yellows and cascading dramatically down the mountain’s edge, the quaint village of Roussillon is one of the most spectacular sights in the Provence region. Roussiilon is built upon one of the most significant ochre deposits in the world, where the earth is a rich red colour which provides a dramatic sight for first-time visitors. Here are some of our favourite places to stay in and around Roussillon:
* La Coquillade $$ Located in the neighbouring village of Gargas, the luxurious Relais & Chateaux property, La Coquillade, is an oasis for connoisseurs of fine cuisine, history and outdoor activity enthusiasts. Website
* Le Clos de la Glycine $$ A charming Provencal boutique hotel perched on the edge of the mountain in the center of town, with simple yet cosy rooms and a lovely in-house restaurant. Website
* Bastide de Cassiopee $ A former 18th century silk-worm farm surrounded by cherry trees and vineyards which is now a charming B&B, with 5 individually-furnished rooms each with an artistic theme. Website
3. AVIGNON Avignon is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in France, with a wealth of cultural festivals which are staged here throughout the year. Surrounded by the picturesque Rhone river and offering many breathtaking landmarks such as the imposing 14th century Palace des Papes and the iconic Bridge of Avignon, here are some of our favourite places to stay in and around Avignon:
* Le Prieure $$ A 4-star Relais & Chateaux haven of luxury and gastronomy set within an ancient 14th century priest’s residence, only 5 minutes drive from Avignon in the medieval village of Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. Website
* Hotel d’Europe $$ Set within a 16th century aristocrat’s home, this is one of Avignon’s most luxurious hotels with an elegant classical design, a fantastic in-house restaurant and a prime central location. Website
* Domaine de Rhodes $ Enjoy the peace & quiet of this elegant 16th century hunting lodge only 5 minutes drive from Avignon, set within a beautiful garden estate. Website
4. OTHER VILLAGES If you’re looking for a place to rest, relax and rejuvenate over a weekend escape, we recommend that you check into one of these magical hotels which can be found in some of the most beautiful areas of the Provence region. Offering everything from luxury or boutique accommodation, gourmet dining, and state-of-the-art spa and treatment centers, here is our selection of some of the best hotels in the region:
* Le Crillon Le Brave $$$ Tucked away in the tiny village of Crillon Le Brave, this is one of the most elegant hotels in the region overlooking the dramatic peak of Mount Ventoux. Website
* La Bastide de Moustiers $$ French chef Alain Ducasse’s exquisite gourmet restaurant & hotel in the remote Provencal countryside of Moustiers, with an elegant contemporary design & picturesque gardens. Website
* Château de Massillan $$$ Housed within a fortified ancient castle, this intimate luxury hotel is a Provencal sanctuary of contemporary design, gourmet dining and relaxation, the perfect place to unwind. Website
