Ménerbes, France
La Bastide de Marie
Vineyard Villa
What it is
An 18th century farmhouse on a 64 acre vineyard with a stone-walled outdoor pool, Provençal-inspired spa, storybook restaurant and aperitif hour in the garden.
What it isn't
Spanking new. The interiors may have been revamped for latter generations, but they retain a storied sensibility—plus an infusion of antiques for good measure.
What we think
If “Under the Tuscan Sun” opted instead to be filmed under the Provençal sun, this would be the spot: a particularly cinematic pocket of France, and a terracotta roofed hotel with star power. Rooms are scene stealers, too, including the 260 square foot Classic Room, which has a hulking stone fireplace mantel, exposed beams overhead, a clawfoot tub in the stone walled bathroom, and built-in corner cupboards. We have no doubt that any character played by Dianne Lane would be blissfully happy in the 484 square foot Suite Marie, with its soaring ceilings, canopy bed and a patio on the vineyards.
You're here because
You want to feel like you’ve died and gone to a Francophile’s heaven, and here, you know you will…down to the lunches on the pea gravel terrace, in the dappled shade of a linden tree.
The Moment
After a swim under a waterfall that flows into the stone wrapped pool, you hit the spa for an oxygen facial and a massage using Mediterranean seashells (warmed, natch). How do you say bliss in French?
Restaurants & Bars
La Table de La Bastide - elegant French cuisine for indoor or outdoor dining
Le Domaine de Marie - wine cellar offering visits to the winery and wine tastings
Afternoon Tea - tea and sweet treats offered in the garden or by the pool
Location
A country plot in the outskirts of Ménerbes with its own rolling vineyards, just a 32 minute drive from the Avignon Provence Airport.