The

The

south of France conjures up images of sleepy villages,
sandstone buildings, shuttered windows and sprawling vineyards –
and Crillon Le Brave is all of those
things, with an added touch of je ne sais quoi.

Perched on a hill at the foot of Mont Ventoux, the hotel is
positioned within an old Roman settlement, where winding alleyways
are surrounded by vine-covered walls and flower-filled courtyards
that lead onto individual stone buildings. Like a village itself,
the hotel started 27 years ago as just one house, but now offers 36
rooms, each with its own story. From farmhouses to the village
school, every dwelling played a part in the cultural development of
this chocolate-box village – and in recognition each building has
been separately named, making it feel like you’re staying in a
private house rather than a hotel.

Touches like the retained individuality of each building are
what sets Le Brave apart. Steering well clear
over-commercialisation, the hotel strikes a balance between
Provençal charm and modern luxury, making guests feel at home in
its secluded fold.

Rooms

A sophisticated, organic air is created by whitewashed walls and
burnt-orange tiled floors, offset soft-toned furnishings. All rooms
have gorgeous views thanks to the hilltop location, while master
suites come with private terraces. If you’re on romantic getaway,
and you’re feeling particularly starry-eyed then opt to stay in the
honeymoon suite where you can soak in twin free-standing baths
while relishing views of Mont Ventoux.

What’s for breakfast?

Hit the buffet on the panoramic terrace to gorge on miniature
French pastries washed down with freshly squeezed orange juice.

How about lunch and dinner?

The staff at Restaurant Jerome Blanchet certainly know what they
are doing when it comes to wine pairing, so plump for the tasting
menu taken out on the terrace. In winter, the restaurant relocates
to the stables where a huge roaring fire makes for a romantic
atmosphere.

At Bistro 40K, the experience lives up to its name by sourcing
all of its food and wine from within a 40km radius of the hotel; a
simple menu showcases the best produce which arrive in generous
portions.

Is there a bar?

Bar La Grange is the hub of the hotel. During high season, there
are regular live jazz performances – if that isn’t your thing, slip
out to the terrace to enjoy your rosé in peace looking out at the
sun setting over Mont Ventoux.

Amenities

Despite its remote location, the hotel has plenty to keep you
occupied year round. During the summer,
borrow bikes and go for a leisurely pedal along the paths that play
host to the Tour de France. Cool off in the swimming pool and
you’ll soon realise that there aren’t many parts of this hotel
where the views aren’t spectacular.

If the outdoor pool isn’t relaxing enough, take a trip to the
spa. This peaceful haven is made all the more enchanting by its
stripped-back, rustic setting and the intoxicating scent of the
region’s freshly picked lavender. Come winter, choose from
truffle-hunting trips, carol concerts and skiing on Mont Ventoux.
The hotel will have put their open fire places to work ready for
you to cosy up next to upon your return.

Things you should know

Hire a car.

Within a short walk you’ll find…

The meandering streets of this tiny village are just a taster of
what the rest of the region has to offer. Hire a car to and plan
your excursions to coincide with the daily markets held in
surrounding towns.

Nightly rates at Crillon le Brave are available from
€320/£278 per room per night for two people sharing including
breakfast. To book, email [email protected], or telephone +33
(04) 90 65 61 61; www.crillonlebrave.com