Hôtel de l'image ★★★★

Champagne and chocolates - who said it was time to be more sensible? Definitely not the butterflies and crickets who will warmly welcome you to this charming hotel, which has been converted by a great fan of photography and is perfect for enjoying the local region. L’Hotel de l’Image is a two-hectare park lying just off the charming pedestrianised streets of Saint Rémy de Provence. From our bedroom, decorated in a simple and comfortable contemporary style, we could see the village’s pink roofs that beckoned us outside. From the loungers beside the swimming pool, you can also admire the view of the Alpilles massif while soaking up the warm Provençal sunshine.

You cannot feel more in Provence than under the plane trees on Jean Jaurès square, just a few steps from the hotel. But you will truly experience the full force of the south of France at the dinner table, at the hotel restaurant ‘Les terrasses de l’image’. After daydreaming in the sun all afternoon, our taste buds will certainly ready for some local specialities. Chef Christophe Chiavola carefully chooses his suppliers from within a radius of 250 kilometres. With melon from Cavaillon, fennel from Roussillon, lamb from Saint Martin de Crau, trout from Ardèche and cheese from Nîmes, you will be taken on a particularly delicious little journey around the region.

The hotel’s location is perfect for exploring Provence, and equally ideal for lazy weekends. If you do feel like getting to know the local area, the concierge service is on hand to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. With their advice, you won’t miss out on anything in this region, which was so dearly cherished by Van Gogh. Here, you will find hiking paths in the region’s Alpilles natural park, a medieval fortress at Baux-de-Provence (one of the most beautiful villages in France), the Arles arenas, Maison Carré in Nîmes and shows in Avignon and Arles. At l’Hotel de l’Image they even offer a great way of getting around - electric bicycles. You can book one for the day and they will supply you with a personalised programme. You’re sure to feel as free as a bird!

As for rest and relaxation, all your needs will be taken care of thanks to both the hotel’s magnificent gardens and also its spa, ‘La Maison d’Ennea’, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, which is just 900 metres from the hotel. The shuttle which is on hand to bring you there is convenient, although it is only a five-minute walk away, and it is lovely to make your way there on foot. The heated indoor swimming pool and the fitness room are perfect for getting ready for your long bicycle rides. Still, with the electric bicycle option, you could also go for the relaxation programme, including exfoliation, wraps, massages and other treatments from the Anne Sémonin range. Ladies and gentlemen, does this not sound like the perfect relaxing weekend break?