Le Phébus & Spa ★★★★★

Despite having visited the Luberon region in France many times and being well-acquainted with its picturesque beauty and gorgeous sights, I was stunned when I arrived at Le Phebus & Spa ***** last summer. A typical Provençal farmhouse built in dry stone on centuries-old ruins, this five-star establishment stands tall among the greenery of pines, olive trees and lavender bushes. As I breathed in the perfumed Luberon air, a feeling of calm washed over me and I knew I had found a true haven of peace.

I entered, and was soon shown to my room. Tastefully decorated in a classically elegant style, with light colours, sumptuous beds and Provençal touches, the 24 rooms at Le Phebus & Spa ***** are all bright, spacious and, above all, peaceful. They enjoy wonderful views over the surrounding countryside and some even have the luxury of a private swimming pool. I set down my bag on the traditional tiled floor and looked out of the window. Later that evening, seeing the sun set over the town of Roussillon would be one of my favourite sights of the trip.

Curious to discover all my new home had to offer, I headed downstairs and wandered into the hotel gardens. Like a village square, the establishment is arranged around a fountain where the owner, Xavier Mathieu, has created a lounge area: the Café de la Fontaine. I sat down to enjoy a little bit of gentle Provençal sunshine with an afternoon cup of tea, but the bistro also serves a changing lunch menu. Nearby, the outdoor swimming pool, boules pitch and tennis court announced some of the pleasure to come.

Before enjoying those particular pleasures, however, I was unable to resist another. The hotel’s Carita Spa offers expert beauty treatments and massages in an elegant, contemporary setting that are sure to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. I treated myself to a wonderful couple of hours there, enjoying the steam room and hot tub before surrendering to a lavender body scrub and hot stone massage.

That evening, I was in for another treat. Xavier Mathieu’s hotel restaurant offers an exquisite selection of dishes inspired by the local region and made using local, seasonal produce. You are taken on a journey around Provence that you can enjoy from a large terrace overlooking the Luberon Valley. I must say I was very tempted to sign up for one of the chef’s cooking classes, which take place right in the restaurant’s kitchen.

It might be hard to leave such a charming place, but the surrounding region has plenty to offer. You can immerse yourself in the gorgeous countryside with long walks, bicycle rides or on horseback. You can head to the Fontaine de Vaucluse for canoeing or fishing, or to a nearby golf course for a round of golf under the blue Luberon skies. The nearby villages are also not to be missed: Roussillon and Gordes have both been classed as among the most beautiful in France, and Joucas, Murs and Lioux are also very charming. And remember, whatever you may choose to do, Le Phebus & Spa ***** will be waiting for you. This is your very own little heaven in Luberon.