Review: Chateau des Alpilles

Provence had been faithfully sitting on our list of places we’ve been dying to go to and after doing some research for excellent Provencal hotels, there is no shortage of them. For us, Chateau des Alpilles stood out immediately and we knew it was somewhere we’d like to experience. There’s something about a hotel being family owned and run that is really what we’re looking for. There’s something more personal about it and its result usually is a very authentic and warm experience. The hotel is based only a few minutes drive outside of Saint-Remy-de-Provence, the most magical town you can imagine when thinking of Provence! Saint-Remy is in the heart of the Alpilles – so you are surrounded by incredible places to see and explore.

THE CHATEAU

The chateau was initially a farm but the history of this place goes back centuries. The chateau was eventually purchased by the Bon family in 1979 where they converted the old castle into what we see today. What an achievement it is! Now, three generations of women in the family take care of the chateau.

The grounds are amazing. Firstly, of course, when you arrive you are welcomed by the incredible driveway lined by hundred-year-old trees. 

The sounds of chirping birds are overwhelming. After living in London for so long, this is not a noise I am used to. The wildlife here is very happy, which I think is always a sign of a thriving environment. The grounds are large, surrounded by trees and flowers. There is a lot of life here. 

The chateau has 21 rooms and every room is unique. We spent a lot of time exploring the grounds and each room of the communal areas. Every corner is beautifully decorated and unique.

THE ROOMS

We stayed in a Double classic room in the mansion. We were overlooking the beautiful driveway and were thrilled to have been in this room. The rooms are classic and simple. The beds are comfortable and the room temperature was perfect. It’s very simple and designed according to your surroundings. When you arrive there are welcome treats in your room with some information about the area and the history of the Chateau.

The Cypress farm and The old Wash house offer larger-sized rooms for groups of friends or families. The Chapel is also available to be connected to cater to families. Children are welcome!

THE FOOD

After our trip around Provence it was clear that every hotel put its heart and soul into its food and Chateau des Alpilles was one of the best. Don't forget to book for dinner one night in the Manor and enjoy the incredible experience. In summer, lunch is served outdoors by the pool. I still can’t stop thinking about the souffle! One of the best food experiences we had on our entire trip.

The courtyard outside the mansion is full of picturesque tables and chairs and the perfect spot for an afternoon coffee or rose (it’s Provence have a rose!) they have an extensive drinks menu available in the afternoon for you to relax outside. The courtyard is also where breakfast is served in the morning. Breakfast is 22Euros per person or you can order a la carte which will likely be cheaper if you just have coffee and a pastry! Try the eggs though, they're delicious. 

One of our evenings we were lucky enough to be there for an art event! It was opening night for a fabulous exhibit by a local artist. In a separate house from the mansion, they had turned it into an art gallery and there was free-flowing rose, white and red wine for everyone there, including the guests! It was truly special to be there for this event and observe what seemed to be a standard evening for the fabulous locals of Saint-Remy. It felt like a movie.

the pool

The chateau has a beautiful pool and a tennis court. The surrounding park area is fitted out with sunbeds and there’s a bar by the pool.

THE LOCATION

Saint-Remy-de-Provence in the north of the Alpilles is located between Avignon and Arles in Provence. It’s a very significant place for art lovers around the world. It is where Vincent Van Gogh painted the very famous ‘Starry night’

Van Gogh spent a year, the last year of his life in Saint-Paul de Mausole psychiatric institution in Saint-Remy, The Alpilles and Saint-Remy served as his inspiration for some of his most famous works. Within that year he painted around 150 paintings. You can visit the asylum and learn more about his life and the history of the town. Although a devastating ending to his life, he is remembered well in the town of Saint-Remy and it’s an amazing place to visit to be so close to his life.

The Alpilles are a small mountain range and an absolute dream to drive through. Hire yourself a vintage car from Yes Provence and explore. Amongst the mountains is Carrières des Lumières a complete immersion of digital art. Built into a mountain, you are surrounded on every wall by digital art and music. It’s an incredible experience! You can read more about what to do in our Provence itinerary soon. 

The gorgeous tiny town of Eygalières is also not far from the Chateau and is worth a visit. 

Enjoy this beautiful and magical hotel.

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