Eager to satiate our curiosity for the small villages of Provence, my husband, two younger youngsters and I depart from Barcelona excited for our first household street journey by means of the South of France. Our journey takes us to Domaine de Manville, Domaine du Mas de Pierre close to the village of Saint-Paul de Vence and, lastly, Terre Blanche, passing by means of loads of pastoral settings alongside the best way.
A WEEK IN PASTORAL PROVENCE BEGINS
Three hours into our drive, we cross by means of Nimes and the surroundings shortly modifications to inexperienced fields and tiny villages that look to have not more than 50 residents every. Passing by farms and olive groves actually set the scene for our journey in Provence.
Our first cease: Domaine de Manville, an unlimited property surrounded by nature and a good looking golf course. The place has a wealthy connection to the Saut household from Baux de Provence, and it’s fascinating to see its evolution from a farm to a good looking resort with a permanent connection to the land.
On arrival, the tranquillity of the place is immediately felt. We’re given a golf cart with our names on it for getting round, which thrills the youngsters. Our villa is spectacular—there’s three bedrooms, a big front room, and an out of doors space with a barbeque. The kitchen is totally outfitted with every little thing we may probably want.
Our first dinner is at Le Bistro, which focuses on native and seasonal produce. The meals is unimaginable. The olive oil is in contrast to any I’d ever tasted earlier than and the freshly baked bread, parfait.
The subsequent day, we first take the youngsters to the indoor pool, then discover the attractive village of Les Baux de Provence. The lodge recommended we go to the Carriere de Lumieres, an exhibit showcasing well-known artists inside a cave-like area, so we do and it’s in contrast to something we’d by no means seen earlier than. Upon returning to the lodge, the youngsters take pleasure in a film within the personal cinema room—sure, they’d their very personal cinema.
Our dinner at L’Aupiho is one other spotlight. It’s a Michelin-starred restaurant on the lodge, and the dishes, made with recent substances from the backyard, delight our tastebuds. The unforgettable meal makes our keep much more particular. We even bought an opportunity to go to the kitchen and meet Chef Lieven van Aken in individual.
Domaine de Manville set a excessive commonplace—it’s an encompassing expertise that reveals the wonder and richness of Provence. It’s a reminder that touring is about extra than simply seeing new locations, it’s about connecting with the tales and the individuals of the locations we go to.
HAPPILY LOST IN WONDERLAND
The street journey continues with a detour by means of the gorgeous lavender fields of the Valensole Plateau, famend for its breathtaking views of purple blooms that stretch so far as the attention can see. This area, vibrant in the summertime months, provides a surprising pure show that completely captures the essence of the French countryside.
Driving towards Good, we cease simply 20 minutes from the airport at Domaine du Mas de Pierre. The detailed care taken on this resort’s gardens is instantly obvious. After checking in, we spend a soothing night by the hearth taking part in chess with the youngsters, an ideal method to unwind.
Our room at Domaine du Mas de Pierre is good for households, with its stunning exterior space and separate areas for us and the youngsters. The resort options an out of doors pool, an Alice in Wonderland-themed youngsters membership and fantastically maintained gardens with an orchid farm.
Steps from the spa, a good looking breakfast is served, with outstanding consideration to element—you possibly can even make your personal nut unfold. The indoor pool is one other spotlight, with its completely tempered water and accompanying backyard space the place you possibly can calm down outdoor or take pleasure in a jacuzzi. The spa additionally provides a sauna and steam room, offering every little thing wanted for a rejuvenating expertise.
The situation of Le Mas de Pierre makes it straightforward to discover close by sights. We go for a brief journey to Antibes, simply quarter-hour away, and likewise to St-Paul de Vence, only some minutes from the resort. Each cities are jewels of the Riviera, providing wealthy historical past, gorgeous artwork and charming streets.
A GRAND FINALE INDEED
Earlier than heading again to Barcelona, we make a final cease at Terre Blanche Resort Spa Golf Resort, recognized for its huge measurement and splendid choices. Regardless of its giant scale—all the domaine is greater than the nation of Monaco—the resort has a comfortable really feel with solely 115 suites and villas, guaranteeing every visitor receives personalised consideration.
On arrival, we’re warmly greeted by the workers who shortly escort us to our villa through golf cart. Already within the room are thoughtfully ready welcome facilities and items for the youngsters, which make us immediately really feel at dwelling. Whereas tempted to lounge across the heated out of doors pool, we go for the serene spa’s indoor pool. After a number of enjoyable hours on the spa, we head again to the lodge for dinner at La Gaudina.
The subsequent day, we discover a few of the close by villages—Fayence and Tourrettes. The resort can also be only a 45-minute drive from Cannes and Antibes, providing easy accessibility to the seaside and high-end procuring.
The historic depths of Provence at Domaine de Manville, the tranquil gardens of Domaine du Mas de Pierre, the expansive luxurious of Terre Blanche—every property on our journey uniquely captures the essence of its area. All three additionally present unparalleled service, beautiful eating and considerate facilities. This journey is a vivid reminder of the wealthy selection and prime quality of hospitality France provides. Returning to Barcelona, we carry again not simply souvenirs, but additionally cherished recollections that proceed to encourage our future travels.
