Absolutely Mama finds peace in Provence at  picturesque French retreat Crillon Le Brave

The Estate

Formerly the country residence of a Parisian family, the guest rooms at Crillon Le Brave occupy seven beautifully aged buildings strung across a beautiful Provencal hillside and connected by bridges, alleyways and quaint courtyards. Flanked by olive groves and vineyards, each newly renovated room looks out over the garden, pool and terraces and is blessed with sweeping views.

The Food

The hotel is not short on fine dining options, with Restaurant Jérôme Blanchet leading the culinary charge. French haute cuisine is served in its vaulted dining rooms or en terrasse, while the neighbouring 40k Bistro is a little more informal but no less foodie (its name is derived from the fact that all ingredients are sourced from within 40 kilometres of Crillon – a testament to the bounteous nature of the surrounding landscape). Food and drink is also served all day at La Grange, the perfect spot from which to soak up the sun between dips in the pool.

Things To Do

Crillon provides easy access to nearby vineyards, lavender farms and sleepy French towns that spring periodically into life with bustling antiques markets. Cycling enthusiasts flock to the area’s scenic cycling routes, making pilgrimages to the famed Mont Ventoux (now a UNESCO-acknowledged Biosphere Reserve); ask the hotel about their organised cycling weekends. Those in pursuit of a more leisurely stay can enjoy tennis and golf, a boules court and the fabulous mini-spa – small, but as luxurious as they come.

The Damage

Nightly rates at Crillon le Brave are available from €290/£240 per room per night for two people sharing including breakfast. To book, email [email protected]

or telephone +33 (04) 90 65 61 61; crillonlebrave.com