La Bastide de Marie

SPECTACULARLY SURROUNDED BY ACRES of vines in the Luberon valley, La Bastide de Marie epitomises rustic-chic Provence. This wonderfully restored 18th century stone farmhouse is a beauty.

Gardens filled with olive and lemon trees and lavender-filled walkways lead to the house, imprinted with the textures and colours of Provence. Exposed stonework, country furniture, whisper-light muslin drapes, hand-printed fabrics and natural shades of sage, aubergine and ivory accentuate its style and charm.

Airy bedrooms at La Bastide de Marie – many with views over the domaine’s vineyards – are named after herbs from the nearby hills. Some have rustic raftered ceilings and four poster beds or clawfoot baths. All blend pleasing neutral shades with splashes of local colour – whether it’s Jaune Mimosa or Bleu de Nimes.

Sun drenched terrace

Salons have floor-to-ceiling book shelves, squashy sofas and baronial stone hearths. Old antique market finds sit comfortably alongside eclectic contemporary pieces, giving an overall effect of stylish sophistication.

If indoors is good, you’ll be smitten by the fabulous outdoors at La Bastide de Marie. Have lunch or breakfast on the sun-drenched terrace, surrounded by a sweeping carpet of vines– the perfect setting for a crisp glass of rosé with views good enough to bottle and take home.

You’ll also find two pools – one heated, one refreshingly cool – more terraces set with wrought iron tables and chairs, and rosemary scented herb gardens. Completing the picture is a tranquil and serene spa where you can be soothed and recharged with pampering face and body treatments.

Good food and wines go hand in hand here, and rates include not only dinner but a deliciously retro afternoon tea and an evening aperitif. Since you’ll be drinking from the Domaine de Marie cellars, it’s worth checking out the vineyard tours and tastings, too.

A pleasingly hospitable vibe draws fans of La Bastide de Marie back year after year, making it the perfect place to kick back and unwind. With the hills of the Luberon and the hilltop town of Ménerbes, nearby, this is quintessential Provence.

© Room for Romance