Provence Guide
The 'It List'
Provence, one of my favorite places on this earth. One of the most asked questions I often receive is where to stay/eat/shop/see in Provence. Of course, I am always happy to help point people in the right direction. This small guide will be a helpful highlight reel for those traveling to my favorite region of France or if you would like to be mentally transported to this dreamy location during this read. Keep in mind, Provence is a fairly large region. This ‘It List’ includes my favorites from the areas I visit most often and hope to give you a bit of insight on where I enjoy spending my time.
Stay
Bastide de Marie. This hotel feels like my home away from home. Located in Menerbes, yes the same town Peter Mayle, author of A Year in Provence fame lived, it is charming, welcoming and you will have days where you don’t want to leave the property. The staff is so wonderful, the restaurant is divine and strolling around the vast, private property will leave you in awe with their stunning gardens. Breathe in the lavender, garden roses and herb garden located right outside the kitchen during the summer months. There is something about the air here that I can still smell even when I’m back home that always pulls me back to this magical place.
Airelles Gordes. Perched on the top of one of the most picturesque villages, Gordes, this luxury hotel will knock your socks off. You will fall in love with the breathtaking views, rooms clad in Pierre Frey fabrics and unparalleled service. Be sure to book an appointment at the spa. One of the best massages I’ve ever had.
La Mirande. In the heart of Avignon behind the ramparts, you will find this stunning and luxurious hotel. From the exquisite French decor bathed in historic French prints to delicious meals prepared in their restaurants, you will fall in love with this gracious hotel. Located at the foot of the Popes’ Palace, be sure to enjoy breakfast or tea out in the garden and soak up every ounce of this beautiful location.
Eat
La Table at Chateau d’Estoublon. Dine under the olive and plane trees on the terrace. This is the perfect place for a leisurely lunch and will surely take your breath away. Order the chocolate mousse for dessert, seriously the best I’ve ever eaten. Be sure to go inside and taste their famed olive oil which comes in the prettiest bottles. My favorite is this one paired with their balsamic vinegar on a simple green salad. You can also order online here.
Bastide de Marie. What I love about their restaurant is that it changes with the seasons. In warmer months you can dine outside which is like living in a fairytale. You get views of the vineyards, wildflowers and the sprawling grounds of the estate. The food is exceptional and intimate, so savor every moment here. My rule of thumb, always get dessert!
Clover at Airelles Gordes. Located with iconic views of the valley below, the terrace offers one of the prettiest spots to dine for lunch or dinner. Their authentic Pistou Pasta is always a crowd pleaser and the Lobster Ravioli, divine! Need I say more?
Bastide de Pierre in Gordes. Sometimes you just want a casual Italian meal in France. A village landmark since 1820, it is casual, great food and easy for families with children too. From pasta to pizza, you will not leave hungry. Be sure to order the Focaccia Rosa Aglio, simple pizza dough with tomato and garlic, to start. So good we ordered a second round!
Shop
Atelier Vime. It’s like walking into a dream the moment you step inside this glorious place. Anthony and Benoit have curated heaven on earth in this beautifully curated shop. Known for their wickerwork, the shop is filled with lighting, antiques, pottery, art and some of the best notebooks around which make for lovely gifts or simply for yourself. If you’re lucky (and kind) they may give you a private tour of the main house. This is not to be missed! Be sure to order their book here. It will leave you completely entranced.
L’isle sur-la-Sorgue. The antique capital of Provence is full of so many incredible finds. Sunday is their weekly market day and additional vendors in town make this day extra busy. Be sure to start early in the day to avoid the crowds if you plan on going on a Sunday. There are hundreds of permanent antique dealers in this town and there is truly something for everyone! I have also shipped so many antique French mirrors, pottery, furniture and art from here. It’s costly to do so, but the memories I have finding these favorite pieces are absolutely priceless.
Lourmarin Friday market. One of my favorite weekly markets. The produce is incredible, loads of market baskets, cheeses, charcuterie, olive wood serving pieces, and so much more to explore. Be sure to go into the shops in the village too!
La Faiencerie d’Apt. If you are an Aptware lover, be sure to get yourself to the town of Apt. You will seriously want to buy out the entire shop. Plus, they are happy to ship your purchase to your home in the U.S. It’s hard to decide which pieces to buy since they are all so beautiful and one-of-a-kind.
La Boutique de l’Antiquaire in Lourmarin. My friend Nathalie’s shop is a must. Filled with beautiful antiques, my retreat guests always clean this shop out. Some of my favorite tablecloths, napkins and silverware have all come from this magical shop. Give Nathalie a follow on Instagram to view her collection.
Luxe Provence. Effortless, Chic, Provence style. Linen dresses and clothing from high-quality natural and sustainable fibers you will want to live in. While there isn’t a brick and mortar location to visit, you can shop online. My lovely friend Tarik is the founder and designer behind this beautiful brand and she ships to the U.S.! How easy is that?
See
La Cuisine Provencale. If you love to cook and entertain as much as I do, a cooking class with Jane will surely be a highlight of your trip to Provence. You start the morning with a visit to the market for fresh ingredients and head back to her cooking school to prep, cook, bake and eat. My guests always say this a highlight of their week and I completely agree!
Chateau de Mille. This is the oldest wine estate in the Luberon dating back to 1238. You can visit for free, but if you’re looking for more be sure to book a bespoke experience which includes a visit to the winery, vineyard, the tower and medieval chapel, gardens and wine tasting. It’s such a beautiful and special property.
Carrieres des Lumières. The most beautiful immersive museum inside a cave that everyone should experience at least one in their lifetime. I took my last retreat group to the Monet exhibit and we all fell for this enchanting experience.
Abbaye Notre Dame Senanque. If you visit Provence in June or July you will hit the peak of lavender season. There is no place better to experience this than at the Abbaye. You can take a tour inside the abbey while you’re there then stop in the gift shop on your way out for all things lavender. You will want to go early in the day as it gets very crowded in the afternoon.
Favorite Villages in Provence
Bonnieux
Gordes
Menerbes
Lacoste
Saint Remy
Lourmarin
L’isle sur la Sorgue
Aix en Provence
I hope you all get to see the beauty and experience this region of France at least once in your lifetime.
xx Marianne
Wonderful recommandations on what to do and where to eat stay in Provence! Many thanks Marianne!