The Credentials:
Set atop a hill in the depths of the Provence countryside, Hotel Crillon le Brave is a secluded hideaway in the hamlet of the same name. The houses which make up the hotel originate from the 16th and 17th centuries, offering an alternative dwelling place to the bland chains. The hotel belongs to prestigious association Relais & Châteaux and boasts a unique location amid vineyards and mountains, with a heated outdoor swimming pool perched above them.
Dine:
There’s a dining room with a terrace overlooking the surrounding vineyards, as well as a restaurant in the cellar. Breakfast consists of breads, pastries, fresh fruit, a wide range of muesli and a selection of ham, cheese and spreads. Omelettes and cooked eggs are available on request.
The subtly decorated interior complements the view outside; the rustic fairytale style which runs throughout the hotel is given a modern twist with oversized furniture and elegant design. The dinner menu is a homage to Provençal cuisine. My fillet of camargue bull with wild mushrooms and royal potato (€32) was perfectly tender and can also be served stuffed with foie gras, while the chocolate fondant (€13) was to die for.
Sleep:
The houses-in-one hotel lends an intimate feel to the experience and means you’re not traipsing up and down corridors and multiple flights of stairs looking for your room. Rooms are simply decorated, fitted out with rustic furniture and BOSE sound systems. The iPod cable was a thoughtful touch. The large windows bring the stunning countryside in and the wet room with two shower heads was an unusual extra.
Who Goes There?
A glamorous crowd – we spotted a man with slicked-back hair and wearing pastel green suit dining with a heavily pregnant lady wearing huge stilettos. People from all over the world flock to Crillon le Brave for its tranquillity; we stayed with Canadians, Brits and French guests. The hotel is tailored to the needs of both couples and families and also hosts numerous weddings throughout the year.
Out & About:
If you’ve exhausted the hotel’s outdoor pool there are plenty of activities to get involved with. The hotel can arrange a day of tennis, golf, mountain-biking, horse-riding and even kayaking for the active. We borrowed bikes and set off down the hill to nearby vineyard Château Pesquié, passing the buzzy village of Bedouin and whizzing through the vibrant Provençal landscape for a tour of the cellars and a wine tasting. (The journey back up the hill was more challenging…) At weekends there is a popular antiques market in nearby Isle-sur-la-Sorgue.
The Best Thing:
The service is consistently attentive and the staff go out of their way to be helpful and informative.
The Worst Thing:
Not having a car severely limits your ability to explore the area; car hire is essential.
The Details:
Crillon le Brave rooms from €250 on a room-only basis. Master Suite from €700 on a room-only basis.
Book through www.crillonlebrave.com; +3349 065 6161
