Best Places to Stay and Eat in Lavender Country

Have a look at our selection of hotels and restaurants to enjoy during your trip to Provence from lovely views to contemporary elegance. Note: This article is part of a bigger magazine feature called “Purple Reign: Lavender and Provence”.

Lavender has been growing in Provence since the Roman Empire. The climate and landscape of Provence — garrigue (low scrubland found on limestone soils near the Mediterranean Basin) – make it ideal for lavender cultivation. By the 1700s, lavender was being grown all around Sault but it was when perfume makers began to regularly use lavender in the twentieth century that lavender was planted more widely across Provence. Now, lavender is thoroughly intertwined with the spirit of Provence. As the French author, Jean Giono, famously said, “La lavande est l’âme de la Haute-Provence” — “Lavender is the soul of Provence.”

Vaucluse-Luberon

Gordes

La Bastide de Gordes: One of Provence’s most spectacular hotels, its antique-filled rooms (some with private terraces) offer magical views over the Luberon mountain range. Expect exemplary service with every imaginable luxury all topped by a beautiful pool and Sisley spa. Dining options include gastronomic restaurants L’Orangerie and the Clover Gordes, by Michelin-starred chef Jean-François Piège, and Le TIGrr Asian bistro – all with terraces facing the Luberon mountain range for eye-popping views. airelles.com/en/destination/gordes-hotel

Gargas

La Coquillade: This stylish spa hotel is set on the sweeping 90-acre Aureto wine estate in the heart of lavender country and is justly famous for its 20,000 sq ft spa, with top-of-the line Parisian skincare and an indoor pool. The hotel also offers two spectacular outdoor pools (plus private pools in some suites), three gastronomic restaurants, two bars, and stunning grounds for strolling or hiking. At the onsite cycling centre, professionals will kit you out for scenic rides to visit the many nearby wonders, complete with picnics and wine tastings. A marvellous private house is the picture-perfect family rental. coquillade.fr/en

Bonnieux

Domaine de Capelongue: Expect astonishing views and contemporary elegance at this stunner of a hotel, plus a pool and luxury spa. The adjoining La Bastide restaurant, which is helmed by chef Noël Bérard, who won his first Michelin star in 2022, is a beautiful light-filled dining room, or you can dine on the terrace and soak up the views. There’s also the option of La Bergerie’s specialities cooked over a wood fire if you prefer. www.beaumier.com/fr/proprietes/ hotel-capelongue/restaurants

Les-Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Bastide de Moustiers: You simply can’t go wrong at this beautiful countryside refuge owned by superstar chef Alain Ducasse. Set in lovely scenery just outside of the village, every detail at this warm and welcoming hotel is in perfect harmony. Views are magnificent and in the able hands of chef Mathieu Bloyet, who sources much of his produce from the kitchen gardens, you will dine exceptionally well. www.bastide-moustiers.com

Forcalquier-Manosque

La Bastide Saint-Georges: Set on pretty manicured grounds among 100-year-old olive trees, this contemporary lodging offers spacious villa suites, all with private terraces and views, in an atmosphere not unlike a luxurious gated community. The spa offers a full menu of treatments and massages, and Les Terraces de la Bastide restaurant is a good casual choice for lunch or dinner. www.bastidesaintgeorges.com/fr/hotel-provence-luberon

La Bastide de l’Adrech: This lovingly renovated 16th-century country farmhouse is excellent value, both for its reliably warm welcome and its charming, homely rooms and common areas and beautiful grounds with views for miles. A scrumptious homemade breakfast comes with your stay, and dinners can be ordered too, which we heartily recommend. Reserve ahead as this is a favourite with repeat visitors – and it’s easy to see why! bastide-adrech.com

Drome Provençale

Grignan

Claire de la Plume: Beautifully situated at the foot of Grignan, all of the rooms at this beguiling hotel are quiet, spacious and stocked with antiques, some with their own private terrace or garden. Cool off in the pool while taking in lovely views of the village. The hotel’s chef Julien Allano’s Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant is one of the best in the region. Dishes highlight top local products with outdoor dining in the hotel’s private gardens. Breakfast, served buffet style in the old hotel kitchen, could not be better. Or treat yourself to afternoon tea in the heavenly gardens. www.clairplume.com/en

Café des Vignerons: An excellent choice for a casual lunch or dinner focused on the seasonal bounty of the area and the local Grignan-les- Adhémar wines among others. www.cafedesvignerons.com

Charols

Château Les Oliviers de Salettes: Expect a gracious welcome at this spectacular 16-room estate where everything you need is at your fingertips. The gastronomic restaurant consistently draws rave reviews and rooms are spacious and gorgeously decorated. A pool, whirlpool, spa and steam room, along with breathtaking views and plenty of peace and quiet make this the ultimate getaway. www.chateau-lesoliviers.com/fr

From France Today magazine