Travel
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The Best of Provence
The perfect places to spend a week in Provence
Words by Liz Skone James
All eyes might be on Paris this month, but we’ll be heading south to enjoy rolling vineyards, lavender fields and Mediterranean sunshine. Bliss
LA RÉSERVE RAMATUELLE
Set a little away from the hustle and bustle of glitzy, Saint- Tropez, La Réserve Ramatuelle is perched on the cliff edge in a secluded position, looking out over the endless, azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, and surrounded by vibrant wildflowers, and verdant greenery. The 19 suites and eight rooms each have their own terraces or private gardens, whilst 13 pool villas (offering between three and six bedrooms) are spread throughout the gardens. All of the accommodation was refreshed for this summer season, with new interiors overseen by renowned designer Jacques Garcia. Fine craftmanship, hand painted frescoes and mosaics reference the golden age of the decorative arts in the French Riviera. Indulgence is the name of the game here: foodies will delight in two Michelin-starred La Voile, where the menu gives pride of place to produce from the hotel’s own kitchen garden. And don’t miss the dazzling Spa Nescens, where a team of specialists offer the ultimate in pampering and wellness. Should you want a change of scenery, guests also have priority access to La Réserve à la Plage, on Pampelonne Beach. lareserve-ramatuelle.com
HÔTEL CRILLON LE BRAVE
Set within a cluster of centuries-old buildings offering impressive views of Mont Ventoux and the Vaucluse countryside, this picture-perfect hotel is part of the exclusive, family-run Maisons Pariente hotel group. There are just 34 luxurious rooms and suites here, spread between nine Génoise tiled houses linked by pretty courtyards and winding alleyways. Airy and cool, the accommodation feels authentically Provençal, with wooden beams, terracotta floors, antique furnishings and local artworks. Authentic flavour is offered in the restaurant, too. Chef Adrien Brunet anchors his cuisine in the region, using the very best seasonal produce for his menus at La Table du Ventoux, where the panoramic terrace offers unrivalled views to al fresco diners. Bucolic views are on offer from the heated outdoor pool, too, where you can cool off in the sparkling emerald waters or relax on one of the comfortable loungers. If this gorgeous setting isn’t invitation enough to slow down the pace, the spa should suffice. A tranquil sanctuary set within converted stables, it offers a host of indulgent treatments for face and body and is the perfect respite from the heat of a summer’s day. Sheer bliss. crillonlebrave.com