Discover Five Unique Destinations Showcasing the Best of Provence Living
Five remarkable hotels, each offering a distinct atmosphere, united by a shared promise: to indulge in the finest Provençal way of life. From charming country estates and tucked-away hamlets to Michelin-starred restaurants and pools shaded by towering cypress trees, our curated selection captures the essence of southern France. It’s as if the soul of the South itself is embodied in these exceptional places.
The Legend: Baumanière – Les Baux-de-Provence
Some places stand the test of time without ever aging. Baumanière is one such icon, perhaps the Chanel No. 5 of luxury hotels: timeless, legendary, and uniquely its own. Established in 1945 by Raymond Thuilier, this historic Relais & Châteaux property has hosted an impressive roster of guests—Humphrey Bogart, the Queen of England, Pablo Picasso, Grace Kelly, Christian Dior—creating a guest list worthy of Hollywood’s red carpet.
Today, Baumanière remains a concentrated dose of Provençal dolce vita: five historic bastide buildings house 53 stylish rooms and suites, plus a private villa available for exclusive rentals. Visitors can enjoy a luxurious spa, three pools, tennis courts, organic vegetable gardens, and of course, the renowned restaurant L’Oustau de Baumanière. Led by Chef Glenn Viel, this three-star Michelin eatery marries Mediterranean flavors with precision and poetic flair. The property also offers La Cabro d’Or, a more relaxed dining option within the estate. For those wishing to deepen their experience, wine workshops and tastings are available in the estate’s cellar. This legendary hotel rightly earns its place among Provence’s most beautiful accommodations.
Starting at $385 per night
Holistic Retreat: Le Couvent des Minimes, A L’Occitane Spa Hotel
Here’s a hidden gem for travelers seeking renewal and tranquility under the Provençal sun. Nestled in Mane, in the heart of the Luberon, this historic 17th-century Franciscan convent was transformed into a luxurious five-star Relais & Châteaux property in 2023. The renovation retains the building’s soul, offering a contemporary and calming aesthetic that pays homage to its spiritual origins.
Elegantly appointed, the 49 rooms and suites feature noble materials, soft colors, and minimalist decor. Some rooms hide in the former chapel or are perched atop the building. Dining is split between two very different experiences: Louis Gachet, a Michelin-starred chef, crafts refined dishes served outdoors under an ancient plane tree, while Pamparigouste, a lively bistro, revives Provençal classics with a contemporary twist. The 2,500-square-foot wellness spa is a destination unto itself, offering pools, hammams, Himalayan salt caves, sensory showers, yoga, Pilates, and treatments from L’Occitane en Provence—dedicated to reconnecting the body and mind. This is a space that celebrates holistic well-being at its fullest.
Starting at $425 per night
The Gourmet Escape: Château de Berne
Venture into the Var hinterlands, between Lorgues and Flayosc, for a quintessential Provençal weekend filled with sunshine, spa pampering, fine dining, and regional wines. Welcome to Château de Berne, a proud Relais & Châteaux hotel nestled within a 150-hectare vineyard estate. The property offers 34 beautifully styled rooms and seven villas that evoke the traditional Bastide architecture—earthy terracotta tiles, blond woods, and expansive views of the surrounding vineyards.
Ideal for groups and families, the villas exude a charming Provencal style with their terracotta tiles and light wood accents. The estate’s acclaimed restaurant, Le Jardin de Berne, is run by Chef Louis Rameau, who crafts inventive, environmentally conscious dishes made with ingredients harvested directly from the estate’s organic garden. After a rejuvenating massage at the Cinq Mondes spa, guests can unwind with a glass of chilled rosé in the vineyard’s cellar—a perfect extension of the relaxing experience.
Starting at $309 per night
Relax and Unwind: Les Petites Maisons – Hameau des Baux
In Maussane-les-Alpilles, just a stone’s throw from the Château des Baux, lies a charming retreat perfect for disconnecting. A luxurious five-star hamlet, hidden within a five-hectare olive grove where the villagers produce their own AOC olive oil. This exclusive hideaway offers a serene setting for a relaxing escape.
The 27 thoughtfully decorated suites are scattered through the estate’s buildings, featuring charming touches like lime plaster walls, antique wood beams, and vintage furniture from Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, complemented by modern designer pieces. Select suites with terraces provide stunning views of blossoming almond groves. The lively central square serves as the hub, where guests gather at a restaurant offering tapas, mezze, and sun-filled small plates in a cheerful, picnic-table atmosphere. The chef sources ingredients from top regional producers, ensuring a seasonal, ultra-fresh menu. At the bar, sip cocktails infused with thyme, lavender, or rosemary while relaxing in a hammock or lounging poolside. Activities include reading on sun loungers, a dip in the pool, early morning tennis, or cycling through the surrounding Alpilles—an ideal setting for a laid-back escape where no one will judge you for a day spent in a swimsuit.
Starting at $262 per night
Elegant Living: Château de Fonscolombe
Just 20 minutes from Aix-en-Provence, step into the magnificent 18th-century Château de Fonscolombe, now a coveted five-star Relais & Châteaux property. The decor is so stunning it feels like stepping into a Sofia Coppola film: historic salons adorned with Gênes leather accents, Chinese porcelains, antique chandeliers, a grand piano, and intricately carved ceilings create a luxurious, cinematic ambiance.
The 50 rooms are spread out across the main château and its annexes, decorated with a refined touch—antique parquet floors, traditional terracotta tiles, and views of lush gardens. The Michelin-starred restaurant, La Table de l’Orangerie, features a chef-driven menu inspired by the estate’s organic vegetable garden, emphasizing fresh, seasonal produce. The pace of life here is gentle—stroll through the extensive park, lounge poolside, or indulge in massages at the wellness area. When adventure calls, the scenic landscapes of Luberon are just minutes away, making Château de Fonscolombe an authentic castle experience in modern Provence.
Starting at €394 per night
