While the glittering coastal area of South of France is arguably the most sought-after, if you go a little North or even North-West, Aix-en-Provence is really beautiful too and full of immense history and drama.
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Located here is one of my favourite places Villa Gallici. This 18th century Provençal house was once a private residence of the Deciani Counts. Now, a member of Relais & Châteaux, this place is a hotel with 22 guest rooms and luxury suites, rich in antiques, fabrics and sumptuous in every detail.
In this splendid enchanting residence where time seems to have stood still, guests can experience a truly exclusive getaway where history and nature merge together to give rise to unique emotions and atmosphere. The cuisine also pays tribute to Provence with dishes like sautéed loin of lamb and aubergine caviar with olives, prepared by the Chef Christophe Gavot, being on offer!
Not far from this place you’ll find an incredible Carrières de Lumières Art Centre. They have a new, must-see exhibition – that of Aix-born painter Paul Cézanne and the Russian artist Kandinsky.
And if you just want to explore there is plenty of fabulous exploration opportunities with beautiful landscapes – Les Baux de Provence being one of the prettiest villages in France.
Another place, which probably needs no introduction, is Le Mas de Poirier, in Avignon.
The name literally translates “The Pear Trees Farm House” as the house sits adjacent to the pear orchard and is said to produce 60 tonnes of pears annually. This place has been bought by an American family in 2014 and since undergoing an extensive renovation by the esteemed Alexandre Lafourcade this property has really attracted a lot of attention from many famous photographers for special photoshoots and has been hired for special events. Having said that, you could just come here and stay for a vacation if you wanted to!
There are again plenty of things to see and do during your stay. Gordes is a favorite among most visitors along with the other hilltop villages in the Luberon Valley such as Bonnieux, Lacoste and Menerbes. When visiting Gordes be sure not miss the lovely Abbey Senanque with its lavender fields, just beyond Gordes in a beautiful canyon.
Avignon itself is just ten minutes away and is home to the Palace of the Popes, one of the largest and most important Medieval Gothic buildings in Europe, and a UNESCO Heritage Site.
Baumanière les Baux de Provence is another beautiful property in the region, nestled in the Baux-de-Provence rocky outcrops, in the heart of Les Alpilles. It is actually one of the first Relais & Châteaux properties in the world, and has been a favourite discreet hideaway place of celebrities and royals for many years!
It encompasses five buildings: the L’Oustau, the historical main house, La Guigou, a Provençal farmhouse, the 18th-century manor, and finally Carita and Flora, two country abodes. The estate also has a spa, three outdoor pools, and a tennis court.
However, it’s most renowned feature is not the buildings, its the gastronomy!
L’Oustau de Baumanière restaurant offers exceptional cuisine, intensely flavoured dishes that take inspiration from the region, and service like no other! This restaurant has reputation to uphold and long dated history, having been founded by Mr. Raymond Thuillier in 1945 and obtaining 3 Michelin stars in 1954. He ran this establishment for many years before being joined by his grandson Jean-André Charial. Today Oustau de Baumanière restaurant is in the hands of the talented Top Celebrity Chef Glenn Viel, who in 2020 was awarded the third Michelin Star once again!
So, whether you’re on a mission to explore something new, learn a bit of local history or indulge your taste buds, Provence is definitely the kind of place you talk about with a large smile on your face and return home with many fond memories.
