Le Frégate Provence ★★★★

Driving along the undulating roads, we could be anywhere in France; the vineyards, deserted roads and rustic architecture do little to give the game away. But once we step out of the air-conditioned car, feel the warm kiss of the late afternoon sun on our backs and catch our first glimpse of the azure Mediterranean water over the treetops, it is absolutely unmistakable.

This is Provence, where beautiful, fertile landscapes roll their way towards the Mediterranean, dipping their feet in its alluring crystalline shallows. Located here is the Frégate Provence, which offers excellent cuisine, outstanding sea views and a pristine golf course. This is the chance for everyone to get to know Provence in real style.

We were treated like VIPs, with a spacious suite suitable for the most demanding A-lister. We had two bedrooms, a roomy living room, a richly appointed bathroom and no shortage of space, all kitted out with brilliant modern facilities. There was even a large, sunny terrace, overlooking the stunningly designed golf course and the glorious ocean - a spectacularly scenic spot to watch the sun go down and allow ourselves to feel star struck by the dazzlingly clear night skies.

Item number one on the itinerary was dinner that evening at the hotel’s Le Mas des Vignes restaurant, so it was soon time to drag the children away from the pool and back up to the suite. Once we were all finally looking presentable, we headed down into the warm, inviting and traditional Provencal ambiance of the restaurant’s terrace, where Chef Patrice Lafon's local, organic and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine delighted the children and adults alike.

Despite having an absolute wealth of activities to do, the hotel remains a relaxing haven where you can lounge by the pool or on the terrace of the bar and feel as if time is standing still.