Combine hilltop villages, fields of wild flowers, picturesque winding drives, good food and wine and a luxurious spa and you have the perfect makings for a romantic getaway. Provence has this all, plus much more during any season of the year. Whether you want to steal away for a few days while renting a villa during your family holiday, or you are visiting the region for a just few days, Provence now has several wonderful hotel spa retreats that can be combined with romantic activities. The following are some of our recommendations for a memorable, relaxing and intimate few days with a loved one.
Spa Hotels in Unique Provencal Settings
Provence is now home to some truly amazing hotel and spas, set in some truly amazing settings— on hillside cliffs overlooking the Luberon, or set into the lush valley surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.
Bastide de Gordes
Renovated in the spirit of the 18th century Aix Bastides, La Bastide is a Palace in the heart of the Luberon, set above the village of Gordes, classified as one of the most beautiful in France. Its terraces and hanging gardens give way to an almost endless view of lavender fields and olive groves which you can soak in from the shade of the cypress trees, surrounded period furniture, portraits and fabrics harkening back to 18th-century Provence, when the French ‘art de vivre’ was at its height.
Star watching
Those who love starry skies can learn the secrets of the stars and planets in season every Friday after 10pm with an astronomer.
Coquillade Provence – Gargas
Only a handful of kilometers away, you have another great option for a romantic getaway.
Nestled in the gently rolling hills of the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon, the Coquillade Provence is a five-star gem tucked away yet near to all the favorite hill top villages. Their 63 bedrooms and suites reflect a farmhouse feel and the hotel is complete with its very own vineyard—Aureto.
Le Couvent des Minimes Hôtel & Spa L’Occitane. – Mane
Head a bit further east towards Forcalquier and you will find a Le Couvent des Minimes Hôtel & Spa L’Occitane. The restoration of the old convent is truly spectacular, with its minimalist, clean feel and the Occitane Spa is a real treat and quite a bit larger than the other two.
Romantic Activities to combine with your Hotel & Spa Experiences
Balloon Ride over the Luberon
Sip champagne et a panoramic view at stunning Provencal landscapes in a hot air balloon. During this serene hot-air balloon ride, you’ll glide over the region’s hidden treasures, which are even more stunning above the ground. Float above medieval hilltop villages, lavender fields, and wild sage, getting a bird’s eye view of one of France’s most picturesque locations. Tours normally include private car transfers to the launch site.
Private Wine-tasting Tours
Enjoy a private wine tasting experience at one of the many vineyards in the region. Provence is known for its fabulous wine (nothing better than a Provence rosé in the hot summer months!). It’s free to stop in and taste at most wineries but also fun to have a private, behind the scenes tours at ones that have a particular interesting history. Chateau de Milles is a favorite of ours— used to be the summer home for the Popes!
Visit here for more information on customized or self-guided wine activities in the region.
Romantic Dinners – Our top pieces for some romantic hideaway meals
While the above great hotels have world-class dining, we suggest stealing away for a least one meal at one of our favorite places hidden away in the smaller more discreet villages. These two are our top choices for intimate, romantic dinners in Provence.
Le Jardin Sur Le Toit – Saignon
Expect views, sunsets and fabulous gastronomy at this little gem of a restaurant tucked into one of the most picturesque, quiet villages in the Luberon.
Le Sanglier Paresseux – Caseneuve
This is a sweet little gem tucked into the picturesque village of Caseneuve. You feel a million miles away from normal life with the best of local traditional food in a quiet stone village setting.
Luxury Villa Rentals in Provence, France
As the luxury property rental market has exploded worldwide, renting a luxury villa has become the preferred choice for accommodations in Provence. Only Provence has the largest selection of luxury properties in the region.
Benefits of Luxury Villa Rentals
One of the many benefits of renting a luxury villa is having a genuinely private yet authentic experience in Provence, complete with in-home chef services.
Below are some of the few great benefits of a luxury villa over other traditional accommodation options.
- Personalized experiences such as private chefs and organized tours and activities;
- Privacy and exclusivity;
- A dedicated villa manager and staff;
- A sense of feeling at home while staying in a private luxury villa;
- Private luxury villas are ideal for groups of families or friends traveling together.
If you are interested in renting a luxury villa in Provence, reach out to Only Provence or book now.
