Fodor's Expert Review Château des Alpilles

Reached via a lane lined with majestic plane trees and set on 8 acres of luxuriant parkland, this gracious five-star manor (it's not exactly a château) dates from the Middle Ages and is one of St-Rémy's dreamiest spots—and that's saying a lot in this château-saturated territory. Stay in one of the sophisticated, beautifully decorated rooms in the mansion or in one of the smaller outbuildings—including a chapel and farmhouse—some large enough for just two people yet all done up tastefully and lovingly with a modern-elegant style. The heated pool, clay tennis courts, spa, sauna, and hammam are welcome amenities, as are the excellent restaurant and spectacular dining room, with a large terrace under ancient sycamores. The châtelaine of this family-run establishment, lovingly maintained by three generations of women, is warm, gracious, and always ready to go the extra mile for her guests.