We began with the most relaxing spa experience of my life, the perfect way to settle in and decompress after a few days of travelling. As an avid massage girlie, I was thrilled to try the Spa des Écuries, complete with luxurious Tata Harper products. The spa is intimate, nestled in the vaulted cellars of the former 18th-century stables, the perfect place to reconnect with yourself, body and mind. From full-body treatments to facials, there is something for everyone. I opted for the custom massage, and my masseuse had me asleep on the table within minutes. The treatment room immediately induces calm, filled with the scent of Provençal lavender. Slipping onto the table feels more like sinking into a bed. I left sixty minutes later, floating on a cloud.

From the spa to the private pool for hotel guests only, I had to pinch myself to believe it was real. It was the perfect retreat after that glorious massage. Spending the afternoon on one of the sun loungers made me feel utterly spoiled. The pool was the perfect temperature for a dip or a few lazy laps, and the view of Mont Ventoux from my lounger kept stealing my attention from my book. With poolside service and endless plush towels, there was no reason to ever leave.

Courtesy of Katie Leirey

Courtesy of Katie Leirey

Dining at the hotel’s restaurant, La Table du Ventoux, was the biggest treat of all. The culinary experience was unmatched, with every meal surpassing the last. The creativity and care in every dish reflected Chef Thomas Lesage’s passion for nature and his desire to celebrate local ingredients. Each meal was fresh, bursting with flavour, and left us speechless as we tucked in for another bite.

While the hotel itself feels like a perfect oasis, the nearby towns are worth exploring if you’re craving a change of scenery. We wandered the cobblestone streets of the Malaucène market, admiring fresh cheeses, produce, jewellery and colourful trinkets.

The region’s wineries are also a must for an afternoon of indulgence. We visited Chêne Bleu for a picnic and wine tasting. The estate dates back to the 11th century and is tucked away in a UNESCO-protected nature reserve. After a tour and tasting, we settled into the vineyard for a picnic packed in picturesque rattan baskets with red-checked tablecloths. The hotel’s attention to detail was flawless, with a spread of fresh sandwiches, desserts, and of course, more rosé.

Returning to the hotel to spend the afternoon by the pool, rosé in hand, and ending the evening with dinner at La Table du Ventoux as the sun set over Mont Ventoux was the perfect finale to our time at Crillon le Brave.

Saying goodbye to this picturesque escape was bittersweet. Beyond the stunning scenery and charming accommodations, the staff’s warmth and attentiveness made our stay truly unforgettable.

Hôtel Lou Pinet: a Riviera oasis

From there, we returned to Avignon station to begin the next leg of our journey to Saint-Tropez. After an easy two-hour train ride to Saint-Raphaël Valescure, we took a car along the coast for about an hour to reach the gorgeous Hôtel Lou Pinet. The coastal drive offered stunning Mediterranean views at every turn. We were lucky with little traffic, though it’s worth noting that this route can take much longer during peak season. After winding through streets lined with designer boutiques and charming cafés, we turned off the main road and climbed into the hills, where Lou Pinet awaited.