15 Best Hotels in Provence, France

Nestled in the middle of 170 acres of private marshland, this quiet, laid-back retreat has simple whitewashed buildings with equally simple guest rooms that feature terra-cotta tiles, jute rugs, white cotton throws, and large picture windows with hauntingly beautiful views of of rose-color reeds. Technology has found its way here, too, as each room has a TV and Wi-Fi. The cavernous dining hall with Provençal chairs and an enormous hand-carved fireplace is a great place to share stories while enjoying local wine and a hearty plate of selected meats, fresh tomatoes, and regional goat cheese.

Though only a two-minute walk from Lacoste, a more captivating country setting would be hard to find, complete with extensive gardens and olive groves, a wooded park with picturesque stone walls, a pool, and breathtaking views everywhere—including from your room. Each of the B&B's five bright, spacious rooms is equipped with all the modern conveniences and its own private terrace, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast or glass of the local wine while taking in the vistas.

A stay at this lovely restored farmhouse in the tiny hamlet of Les Martins—strategically set between the villages of Gordes, Ménerbes, and Lacoste—lets you enjoy all the wonders of the region without the crushing crowds. There's nothing quite like a meal cooked to your tastes and served alfresco under ancient trees and amid flower gardens. In summer, play pétanque, or cool off in the pool; in chilly weather, enjoy an apéro by the fire. Here, life slows down in the most pleasurable Provençal way.

With exquisitely styled, Provence-chic rooms, each done in soft colors, this property is an ideal respite after a long day of antiques shopping. Even if you don't bed down here, consider using the money you saved bargaining on that chipped Quimper vase to splurge on a lunch of tender duckling with lavender honey at the hotel's delightful restaurant.

Romantic doesn't begin to describe this beautiful eco-friendly B&B set in an 18th-century hunting lodge, where every detail is rendered with taste and refinement without an ounce of snobbery. Your gracious hosts encourage you to make good use of their property: stroll the manicured French gardens—listed by the French ministry of culture—or soak in the Provence sunshine by the spring-fed infinity pool. Two bright, first-floor guest rooms have king-size beds and a lovely interior design with original artwork. A delicious, all-organic breakfast is served in the garden or in the lovely dining rooms. Homemade gourmet dinners, massages, cooking classes, and wine tastings are available upon request.

Past residents of this 14th-century stone house on the medieval ramparts served the Avignon popes, including the hotel's namesake, Cardinal Orsini, but today's guests enjoy total relaxation, serenity, and eye-popping views—including from the vaulted breakfast room and spacious terraces—of Mont Ventoux on one side and the Palais des Papes on the other. For a jaw-dropping sunrise over the Avignon skyline, book the Panoramic Suite or the charming Suite Pamparigoust, which has a private terrace. Two antiques-furnished cottages, both with private yards, accommodate families; they're also perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

Though this cluster of private stone cottages has had a modernizing face-lift, the antique tiles and faux patinas keep things looking fashionably rustic, and the panoramic views are classics. Amenities include a heated pool, a billiards room, and babysitting services by arrangement. What's more, the atmosphere is surprisingly welcoming and familial for such a sophisticated inn.

It took four years for the two delightful owners, one a fifth-generation antiques dealer, to transform this 18th-century bastide amid farmland and vineyards into a guesthouse of rare elegance and taste. Whichever of the spacious suites you choose, you’ll be treated to museum-worthy antiques and artworks, luxury linens, comfortable contemporary furniture, and all the considerate touches that make you feel at home (the home of your dreams, that is). The private guesthouse next to the bastide is a masterpiece of contemporary design, mixing modern and classical artworks and antiques in the beautiful sleeping and sitting areas. The estate lies on three private acres of manicured gardens, orchards, and olive groves, with a pool and plenty of lovely spots to relax under the shade of ancient trees and take in breathtaking views of Ménerbes.

In the medieval part of town, this turreted 16th-century former bishop's palace has rooms with rustic charm—delicate fabrics, exposed beams, and wooden bedsteads. The surroundings and the warm welcome have garnered a loyal following among travelers who prefer character over modern luxury.

Whether on or off the Lavender Route, arriving by car or by bicycle—as many do—a warm welcome awaits you at this reasonably priced bed-and-breakfast set in a series of 18th-century stone mas (farmhouses) in the midst of lavender fields near Sault. Spotless rooms evoke a Provençal ambience with contemporary touches, and the spacious pool is appreciated on hot summer days. Four independent stone houses, including a 1,500 square-foot farm house with its own private pool, and a picturesque stone cottage adjoining the hotel offer a touch more privacy. If you’re booking for lavender season (mid-June to mid-July) reserve at least six months ahead.

Outside the hustle of town and yet just five minutes from the Arènes, this luxurious Art Deco hôtel particulier has lots of charm—especially in its large, airy, individually decorated guest rooms. The scent of jasmine leads you out to the garden, where colorful bougainvilleas contrast with the deep blue of the pool. Drift back to the lovely sitting room in the early evening for a cup of tea or a glass of wine (a fridge is at your disposal), and then curl up with one of the many good books thoughtfully provided by your hosts.

Resident chineur (that’s fancy for "antiques hunter") Michel Montagnier decorated his 18th-century home in the heart of Arles with furniture and paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries, creating a setting so flawless that it feels like a stage and enables you to relax in an arcaded courtyard, lounge in a library, or retire to a spacious and luxurious guest room. No detail has been overlooked—Quagliotti linens, Annick Goutal beauty products, and your choice of cashmere bedspreads by Oyuna. On a budget? One room with two twin beds goes for a lower rate. Breakfast is included, as are Wi-Fi access and access to two parking places (if available).

Set in a historic mansion on the town’s main street, this bed-and-breakfast has four loft-like rooms with soaring ceilings, contemporary furnishings, ample marble baths, and lovely garden or historic center views. Two of the four rooms can accommodate people with mobility issues, a rarity in historic hotels. Breakfasts are served in the onsite restaurant and tea salon, L’Heure Bleue, or in the greenery-filled garden.

At this Gîtes de France B&B, guest rooms have carefully chosen antiques and lovely tiled baths, and public spaces feel homey with scrubbed floorboards, a fireplace, and exposed stone. The hotel has a pool and a pretty garden, and it overlooks the valley from the village center.

Two minutes from the famous Avignon bridge, this contemporarily decorated B&B offers a rooftop terrace view of the palace but also tranquillity away from the noisy palace streets. Opaque glass metal doors open into clean and bright guest rooms, with white bedding, white paint, and white furniture, with artwork providing bursts of color. Your friendly hosts offer all the amenities of a hotel, such as soaps, slippers, a welcome bottle of water, and a candy dish at the door, as well as a tasty breakfast (included) on the terrace or by the fireplace off-season.