Domaine de Châteauneuf ★★★★

Nestled in the foothills of the Sainte Baume massif, the Domaine de Chateauneuf is a charming 18th century manor house sitting in a pretty four-hectare park. With a beech grove that is several centuries old and the Sainte Marie-Madeleine cave (which has been a pilgrimage site since the Middle Ages) it is an almost mystical setting in which you can unwind and reenergise.

The air is filled with the perfume of the centenarian cedar and linden trees which line the estate, a perfume that is enriched with further layers of sweetness thanks to the vegetable garden. Hints of lemon balm, verbena and lemongrass reach you with their delicate fragrances, hinting at the culinary delights to come later. Opposite the house, the prestigious Sainte Baume golf course rolls out over several hectares, perfectly peaceful and quiet.

Built in 1780, the former manor house was transformed into a hotel nearly one hundred years ago. Its 18th century character nevertheless remains, thanks to carefully chosen antique furniture and sympathetic restoration. Red-brick floor tiles, ceramic friezes, sturdy wardrobes and traditional Provence linen make for an interior that is rich in charm and tradition as well as modern comforts.

Here, you can feel the good life in each nook and every cranny. The interior design crystallises the spirit of Provence, the comfortable bedrooms invite absolute rest and relaxation, the deep blue swimming pool glistens in the sun and the terrace is shaded by hundred-year-old plane trees.

On arriving in the Luxe bedroom, you will be met with a glass of champagne – a very pleasant way to start off a long, relaxing weekend! You will then be sure to notice the generous size of your new bedroom (30m2), which includes a seating area that is just perfect for getting lost in a book. Each of the bedrooms have been individually designed in traditional Provencal style, with a fairytale canopy bed and all the usual comforts including air conditioning, flat screen television and mini bar.

When morning arrives, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast made with sumptuous local produce, starting off your day as you mean to go on. Next comes the ultimate pleasure: taking your towel and settling by the swimming pool, after a wonderful night’s sleep and a delicious breakfast. Between refreshing dips in the pool and quick naps under the trees (in honour of local tradition), the hotel tennis courts and Sainte Baume golf course provide leisurely entertainment if you fancy a more active afternoon.

To finish off your perfect day, you can try the beautiful gourmet cuisine of chef Emmanuel Mercadier with dinner in the hotel restaurant. The talented chef uses high quality local and seasonal products, blending the scents and flavours of Provence in harmony with produce from the Aveyron (his native region). It really is an impressive gastronomic experience. In warm weather, you will even have the chance to savour his impressive dishes outside on the enchanting terrace. This is a priceless moment of pure happiness.