Between the pines and olive trees, the song of the cicadas and the mistral air that touches the trees, the sun that illuminates the stones of period buildings, these spa hotels alone embody the charm of Provence and its picturesque villages.
Arriving in front of the gates of these areas, we discover a postcard from the south that comes to life before our eyes. If their gastronomy and rooms invite you to escape to Provence, the spas of these luxury hotels are also particularly famous in the region.
Château de Berne
In the hinterland of the Var, in the small village of Flayosc, lies the Château de Berne, a sublime 18th century stone building set in the heart of 515 hectares of nature, including 150 hectares of organic vineyards. Reopened since 7 March, this hotel in Provence is the wine tourism destination par excellence, between wine tasting and a dip in the two outdoor swimming pools. Considered one of the most beautiful Relais & Châteaux in the region, this authentic setting has 34 rooms and suites made of typical terracotta tiles, flowery curtains and classic furniture. Chic countryside atmosphere assured. Seven villas are located on either side of the estate. These private houses can accommodate between 3 and 20 guests and are equipped for the most part with a swimming pool and large terrace, as well as access to the facilities of the property. Among them, we mention the spa Cinq Mondes et Vinésime, a wellness sanctuary of 800m2 with indoor pool, jacuzzis, hammam and solarium. Favorite for the yoga session in the heart of the vineyards. Château de Berne also unveils the one-star Jardin de Berne, a restaurant respectful of seasonality where haute cuisine takes root in the products of the vegetable garden. Le Bistrot et L’Olivier de Berne are inspired by both the Provence and the Mediterranean.
Baumanière
Worthy of the most beautiful postcards of the south, Baumanière, in the village of Les Baux-de-Provence, enjoys an idyllic location, among vineyards, garrigues and olive groves for a romantic stay. From this typical nature of the Alpilles emanates Provencal smells that soak the domain. To inspire the chef Glenn Viel who drives the 3-star l’Oustau de Baumanière. Although not starred, the restaurant La Cabro d’Or is no less gastronomic. The 53 rooms are distributed in l’Oustau, the Maison de Famille, the Manoir, Flora or Carita All different, these keys are made of mosaic, marble or waxy paint and furniture as well as antique as from the workshops of great designers. To relax in this hotel in Provence, head for the 500m2 spa des Baux with 6 individual cabins dedicated to body and face treatments, a hammam, a sensory pool and a sauna.
Hotel du Castellet
In the small village of Le Castellet, this five-star Relais & Châteaux hotel is nestled 430 meters above sea level in the Var hills, in a 12 hectare park covered with umbrella pines. Behind the ochre facades of Tuscan buildings, 43 rooms and suites unveil a classic style with Provencal charm. With its 3 stars, La Table du Castellet by chef Fabien Ferré affirms its local identity through sunny and creative dishes to be enjoyed in front of the gardens of the estate. Not to mention the Bistrot San Felice on the shaded terrace. If we come to the Hotel du Castellet, it is also for its ultra-renowned luxury spa, awarded many times. A temple of relaxation on 700m2. Golf enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that the luxury property has its own 6-hole course, the Swing Center.
Villa La Coste
Distinguished by the Palace label, the Villa La Coste, nestled on hillsides, combines three elements of choice: art, gastronomy and relaxation. The 5-star hotel offers 28 villas with clean lines and spaces designed by the greatest artists, such as Jean Nouvel and Frank Gehry. We appreciate the creative sculptures in the gardens that lead to the large swimming pool and the art objects in the library and gallery of the lobby. Hélène Darroze’s restaurant has earned a star thanks to impeccable service and sophisticated dishes that enhance the products of the vegetable garden. As for the spa, the hammam ritual is the treatment to book, between exfoliation, clay wrap and deep hydration. Perfect to magnify your body when the sun is in the abyss. A hotel-museum to book with your eyes closed.
Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort
In a magnificent ochre villa of 3200m2, the spa of the hotel Terre Blanche in Tourrettes is an ode to calm. Swimming pool of 20 meters, heated outdoor pool with jets and bubble beds, care with brands Valmont and KOS, zen garden… The place promises a day of absolute relaxation in an idyllic setting. The five-star hotel offers 300 hectares of suites and villas with a minimum surface of 60m2 and 4 swimming pools, including one dedicated to children who are also perfectly welcomed in the hotel’s kids’ club. The gastronomic restaurant Le Faventia offers a panoramic view of the surrounding villages and highlights the cuisine of the south. With its Mediterranean dishes, Le Gaudina promises a warm and relaxed atmosphere on the terrace. The restaurant Les Caroubiers overlooks the property’s 18-hole golf course, while Le Patio and Le Touscou Grill, near the pool, offer both local and world-inspired dishes.
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Featured photo : © Château de Berne