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Tested by Travellers Society: Baumanière

Les Baux-de-Provence, France

Reviewed by the Travellers Society: Baumanière, Les Baux-de-Provence, France
April 17, 2019 Pauline

If you're looking for a place that has managed to retain its authenticity, you'll probably fall for Baumanière. 5-star Relais & Châteaux hotel Located in the heart of Provence, the establishment will constantly amaze you with its extraordinary setting and the quality of services offered.

From Frédéric Dard, author of the San Antonio series, to Hugh Grant and Elizabeth II of England, they all had the good fortune (and good taste) to stay at L'Oustau de Baumanière. The reason? There are probably many, but let's bet the main one lies in the truly magical setting: Les Baux-de-Provence will accompany your stay from the moment you wake up in this little corner of paradise.

Baumanière's accommodation centers around 53 rooms, all decorated in a cozy and elegant style by the owner, Geneviève Charial. The furniture was found in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue or chosen from renowned designers. But the experience doesn't stop there, as the property also boasts a three-Michelin-star restaurant, a magnificent spa, and fosters an exciting culture of oenology.

The estate is vast: l'Oustau is the historic building of Baumanière. It is located in the heart of a near-wild natural setting, in an environment that will make you regret having to return to the city one day. This 16th-century farmhouse houses 11 rooms as well as the three-Michelin-starred restaurant.

We're falling for La Guigou, a small, typically Provençal farmhouse with only 5 rooms, ensuring maximum tranquility. Plus, the view is absolutely incredible.

Further on, you'll find the Manor, a large 18th-century farmhouse with 13 rooms, as well as Carita and Flora, harmonious spaces located just a stone's throw from the Sisley spa at Baumanière.

If you had to choose a specific type of room, it would be the Prestige Luxe. Spacious and bright, don't hesitate to specify that you would like Provençal or more modern decor. The real bonus? The panoramic view all the way to the Camargue.

À Baumanière, you will discover what the term «relaxation» means. Take a stroll through the gardens and let time drift by.

On 20 hectares, you won't even need to leave the estate to nap in the shade of a plane tree or listen to the soothing sound of water in the fountains and ponds.

Three swimming pools are present, for the happiness of the whole family: in the heart of a green setting, they are waiting for you, for maximum freshness and pleasure.

In a nutshell

  • A magnificent estate in the heart of the Provençal countryside.
  • A three-Michelin-star restaurant focusing on sharp flavors.
  • A retreat suitable for romantic getaways and family stays.

L'Oustau de Baumanière, 3 Michelin stars

Created in 1945, L'Oustau de Baumanière is one of France's truly legendary establishments. Today, it's Glenn Viel who is at the helm of the two-Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant. At 42 years old, he already has a career that makes others envious, having worked alongside Marc Marchand and Yannick Alléno.

A la carte, flavors from land and sea, exemplified by the pan-seared John Dory cooked on a spit with green asparagus, one crisp – the other overcooked, and a jus made from roasted fish bones. The dessert menu is just as colorful and refined, featuring the fan-shaped carrot confit with honey, vanilla crémeux, and verbena refresh.

Baumanière also focuses on vegetables, with a Vegetable menu made from vegetables from the kitchen garden (as well as from the surrounding village), the best AOC olive oils from the Vallée des Baux, and a lot of color.

Address

Baumanière, Mas de Baumanière, 13520 Les Baux-de-Provence, France – website – starting from €250

Inspiration

Shopping
Impossible to leave without it one or more bottles of Baumanière wine : The Affectif, cultivated biodynamically at Domaine de Lauzières.

Out for a walk
Entrust your desire for walks to the professionals at Baumanière, who will be able to show you the must-sees. If you're heading out for a day exploring the Alpilles, Avignon, the Camargue, or even the Luberon, don't forget to order a picnic basket.

Zen
The Baumanière Spa is a pure marvel. Intimate and so welcoming, it covers 500 m2, between woods and airy curtains. You will find a tree-lined patio as well as an aromatic garden, six individual cabins, a hammam, a sensory pool, and a fitness area.

We advise you «Immersion in Provence» 90 minutes including a foot bath, full body massage, foot reflexology, facial massage, and scalp massage.

In the suitcase

So forget your tablet and phone chargers, you'll see, you won't need them.

Recommended Reading
A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle