An old stone family home nestled in 57 acres of vineyards, concealed by verdant gardens lined with majestic cypress trees and rows of lavender, La Bastide de Marie amalgamates every romantic trope you’ve ever associated with Provence. Intimate corners reveal tranquil settings ideal for taking in those perfect mornings or afternoons under the Provençal sun–from the outdoor patio overlooking the vineyards, cozy dining room or the property’s two swimming pools. The bastide is just as charming on a rainy day, during which guests can assemble in the antique-filled living room, curling up with a good book from the home’s well-curated library. –M.M.
- Amenities: Pools, restaurant, spa, winery
- Bonus Tip: Book a tour of the Domaine de Marie cellars followed by a wine tasting right on site.
- Address: 64 Chem. des Peirelles, 84560 Ménerbes
Photographed by Gaelle Le Boulicaut Instagram : @gaelleleboulicautpicsWeb : www.gaelleleboulicaut.comPhoto: Gaelle Le Boulicaut
The gardens at Domaine de Chalamon would certainly have provided great inspiration to Van Gogh, who famously resided in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence for two-and-a-half years. Framing a 16th-century bastide in the heart of the Provençal countryside which opened just last year as a 9-room guest house, the six gardens spanning nearly 37 acres were originally designed by renowned southern landscape designer Dominique Lafourcade nearly three decades ago. The new owners brought Lafourcade back to continue her transformation of the gardens and expand on her vision, providing a unique opportunity for guests to retreat into nature, where around each hedge secret streams, foot bridges, and a rich diversity of flora and fauna surrounding the pool are revealed. This botanical theme extends to the interiors with walls adorned with 19th-century floral wallpaper by Stéphanie Montaigu and floral watercolor paintings by British artists Rosanna Morris and Flora Roberts. –M.M.
