20 June 2023

For anyone looking for a bit of back footed European luxury this summer, one of my favourite getaways is the South of France. Of course there are many versions of the South of France. Those that want to be seen flock to Cote D’Azur, but for a more chilled, authentic trip, the triangle between Nimes, Mont Ventoux and down to Aix offers everything you could want from a laid-back luxury French holiday. Multiple airports with the big hitters and the low cost airlines flying, plus stunning scenery and so many incredible hotels and places to visit. My top tips are; HOTELS: Hotel Le Vieux Castillon – You might know it as the original First Dates Hotel from the Channel 4 series. The hotel has a private pool within a medieval fortress at the top of a mountain with 360 degree views. Sit in the pool with a cocktail and take it all in. For those wanting the five star treatment, check out either of these two big hitters in the Baux de Provence; VINEYARD/ GOLF & A CASUAL MICHELIN STAR: Domaine de Manville, a stunning hotel with its own golf course in the olive groves and naturally the restaurant just happens to have a Michelin star, but if you are looking for less formal there’s also a great brasserie. MOST LIKELY CELEB SPOT: La Baumanieres de Provence has the celebrity edge, another with a Michelin starred restaurant once favoured by Picasso and a young Queen Elizabeth, more recently by Johnny Depp and the Pitt Jolie family (whose Miraval vineyard is just next door). ARTISTIC CITY DWELLER: If you prefer a city vibe, try La Divine Comedie in Avignon. A boutique hotel that might just inspire you to write a novel. THE ULTIMATE: If you want it all and don't mind being a bit further North, try Hotel Le Crillon le Brave. Set on the edge of Mont Ventoux, the hotel takes up a medieval village turned into a hotel. The only problem is whether or not you can actually get a room. DAYS OUT: You will be spoiled for choice, and for the Roman history geeks (like me), there’s also plenty to see. Pont du Gard: A Roman aqueduct and a marvel of engineering. Nowadays it's a riverside hangout for locals and tourists alike. Why not grab a lounger, spend the day with your family in the sun (or the river). Practice your diving if you are feeling brave or if not just watch the local kids doing it much better than you. If a boozy lunch is more your thing, there's also a great bistro on the riverside... but just remember someone will have to drive you back at the end of the day. Nimes: The town where denim was invented (de-Nimes)... Nimes also has an almost complete Roman amphitheatre which hosts plenty of very cool classical and pop concerts in the during the summer. Uzes: A medieval settlement, Uzes is now the hub of the artistic community. Writer, poet, artist or musician. Which one are you? Ille Sur La Sorgues: On the banks of the river Sorgues, this is the antiques capital of the South, rivalling the Paris brocantes. Everything from huge pieces lifted straight out of chateaux to smaller artwork and collectables. The prices are way more reasonable than in the UK and if your haul won't fit in the suitcase there are multiple transporters who make monthly journeys over to the UK. For anyone keen on cycling, or travelling with a bike, Mount Ventoux is an absolute must. A staple stage of the Tour De France, it's a very tough but exciting ride, so put your yellow jersey on and live your best TDF fantasies with everyone else doing the same... For anyone not brave enough to cycle, you can also jog it (like I did, ugh) but you can't drive it… There’s the legendary Café Reynard halfway up where you can refuel. Restaurant wise, there are way too many to mention in one blog, but if you are looking for somewhere off the beaten track in spectacular surroundings, Les Remparts in the village of Venasques is the best. Lucky you if you can get a table on the terrace and eat dinner whilst the sun goes down on the mountain side.