Provence-First Time
 

My adult daughter and I will be visiting Provence for the first time in early July. Any suggestions as to hotels? Looking for comfort and charm.

Do you have any ideas what towns you want to visit? Provence is a large area and there are thousands of hotels.

Will you have a car?

We liked the Hotel Calendal in Arles. If you will have a car there's a car park not far. It's well situated,friendly, there is a café in the lobby, and the rooms have charm. For something a little more chichi there's the Nord Pinus---if you don't stay there at least check out the beautiful design of the lobby and the bullfighter's bar. I think it was designed by La Croix but not positive. Lots of 20th Century history there. When I was an adult daughter my Mother and I stayed at the Julius Cesar about 25 years ago. It seems a little stodgy to me these days.
Arles is a good central location from which to explore that part of Provence and I do recommend you rent a car. Much more fun that way. Get yourself a good guide book and start reading and see what appeals to you. St. Remy de Provence is another good spot to locate yourself--but much smaller than Arles. We rent a house there so I'm not the one to recommend a hotel but if you search the Fodors France forum you will find many suggestions. Better get on it, however, July is a very busy time in Provence.
Bon Voyage.

I've stayed at both the Calendal and the Nord Pinus which is much more expensive but they have their own parking garage.
there are many charming Bed and Breakfasts throughout Provence.
One of my favorites is the Mas du Pastre in Eygaliers.

How long will you be there? Have you considered renting an apartment?

Also, that's a very popular time to go. Whatever you choose, you'd better book quickly.

I suggest checking out the Fodor's Provence and the French Riviera, as well as Frommer's Provence and the French Riviera day-by-day. The latter has some great itinerary suggestions.

If staying in St-Remy is on your list, then you might consider Le Mas des Carassins. Check out tripadvisor.com to cross-reference what you learn on this forum.

You won't beat this for charm : http://www.hotelfp-saintmaximin.com

It is well positioned for touring Provence by car.

Peter

Thanks for the great advice (I'm the daughter)...I'll start looking at some of the suggestions! And yes we are renting a car, and we are staying a little over a week. Wish we could stay longer this time but someday we'll come back when we can stay much longer!