Where to Stay and Eat in the Drôme Provençale

The best restaurants and accommodation in the region, and how to find them

Related articles: Secret Provence: Exploring the Drôme Provençale in the South of France
The Towns of the Drôme Provençale

TOP RESTAURANT SELECTION

Le Resto des Arts (Nyons) serves classic French dishes made with fresh, local produce worthy of a much more expensive table. The prix-fixe menus at lunch are a great deal. Website: lerestodesarts.free.fr

Excellent food at excellent prices at Le Resto des Arts in Nyons

WHERE TO STAY AND EAT

GRIGNAN

Beautifully situated at the foot of Grignan, all the rooms at the charming Clair de la Plume are quiet, spacious and stocked with antiques; some even have their own private terrace or garden. Cool off in the organic pool in summer while taking in lovely views of the village.

The hotel’s resident chef Julien Allano’s superb (and reasonable) Clair de la Plume’s Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant is the best in the region. Dishes highlight Allano’s insistence on the best local products – including an all-truffle menu – served with the finest local wines. The hotel bistro is another good choice, with outdoor dining in warm weather. Treat yourself to teatime in the garden. Website: www.clairplume.com

Le Clair de la Plume hotel. Photo: Alain Maigre

CHAROLS

A gracious welcome awaits at the 16-room Château Les Oliviers de Salettes, a spectacular estate with everything you need right at your fingertips. The restaurant consistently draws rave reviews and rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed. A pool and whirlpool, spa and steam room, breathtaking views from every angle, and plenty of peace and quiet make this the ultimate getaway. Website: www.chateau-lesoliviers.com

Château de Rochegude

ROCHEGUDE

The Château de Rochegude is a Relais & Châteaux property in the town’s imposing castle. Rooms are large and furnished with antiques and there is a gourmet restaurant on the premises. Here you will have the distinct sense of history emanating from every hushed corner. Website: www.chateauderochegude.com/fr

BARRET-DE-LIOURE

Set in a village just minutes from Montbrun-les-Bains, the delightful Monalisa Chambres d’Hôtes were renovated to contemporary perfection by Lianna and Manuel Valsecchi, your hosts. Enjoy gourmet meals (order in advance) prepared by Manuel with seasonal local bounty, and stupendous views of Mont Ventoux. Website: www.la-monalisa.com

Monalisa Chambres d’Hôtes

MONTBRUN-LES-BAINS

The former castle of Château des Gipières has been converted into a residence with luxurious holiday accommodation. Choose from 44 apartments and studios with Provençal interiors. Its Restaurant L’O des Sources closes in winter but reopens in spring with delights such as the house’s Crème d’asperges (Cream of asparagus soup). Websites: www.chateaudesgipieres.com and www.o-des-sources.com

ROCHEBAUDIN

Right at the heart of the Drôme Provençale, the chambres d’hôtes at La Belle Étoile sit in an exceptional stone farmhouse dating to the end of the 18th century. There are  ve well-appointed rooms perfectly-located for exploring the Drôme’s famous villages perchés, lavender fields and truffle oaks. Website: www.labelleetoiledrome.com

From France Today magazine

Râpé à la truffe sur son risotto – Le Clair de la Plume – © Alain MAIGRE