Hostellerie les Frênes & Spa ★★★★

Encircled by crennellated ramparts dating back 800 years, Avignon sits proudly on the banks of the River Rhône. The ancient cobbled streets and leafy squares mark the historic core, while rolling countryside and hidden treasures unfurl outside Avignon. Head slightly out of the city and you’ll find a glorious manor house defined by elegance and refinement.

Arriving at Hostellerie les Frênes, the first thing I noticed was the grand white façade of the manor house, surrounded by rose-filled flowerbeds and ash trees which give the hotel its name. The symmetrical windows are adorned with sage green shutters, and the path leading to the grand entrance is lined with twinkling lights. Inside, historic structures and modern luxuries have been seamlessly combined, inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

The house has just 18 bedrooms, each one traditionally furnished and decorated in a Provençal style, with period furniture dating back to the Napoleonic era. After a long restoration period, they will carry you into a serene state of mind, with views of the magnificent grounds and a large pool to add to the pleasure of your stay. My weekend getaway was all about appreciating the finer things in life, so I disconnected from technology and immersed myself in my surroundings. Of course, if you’re in need of a modern-day fix, each room comes with a wealth of amenities including a minibar, a courtesy tray, free Wi-Fi, a TV and an ensuite bathroom with a hot tub and a selection of organic Damana toiletries.

After settling in, the views from my window were just too enticing, so I went for a stroll to explore the grounds encircling the house. Following the stepping stones through the shady trees in the gardens, I felt completely at one with nature, accompanied only by the sweet sounds of birds and the trickling of water from the fountains. Everything I came across was stunning, from the shaded areas with wicker chairs and tables, perfect for relaxing with a book and a glass of wine, to the enormous crystal-clear swimming pool, surrounded by loungers, lavender-filled terracotta pots and stone sculptures. Mouth-watering aromas were floating out from the kitchen, so I decided to visit the icing on top of this Provençal cake, where I indulged in my 5-course gastronomic meal, thanks to VeryChic. Served in a beautiful dining hall, Le Jardin des Frênes welcomes you to enjoy the flavours of Provençal and Mediterranean dishes cooked by chef Hervé, who combines tradition and imagination to create astonishing seasonal cuisine.

Feeling full and lethargic, I decided a lie down was in order. And there was no better place for this than the spa. After a long soak in the hot tub, I treated myself to a couple of exclusive treatments and rituals, leaving me feeling even more relaxed than before. The following morning started with a delicious breakfast on the terrace, complemented by gorgeous views and a friendly service which the staff ensued throughout my stay. It was hard to drag myself away from such seclusion and peacefulness, but when I did, the historic city of Avignon and the rolling countryside painted with lavender fields and sprinkled with quaint hilltop villages were just a short drive away. This is pure paradise.