Nestled in the heart of Provence, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a picture-perfect destination with quaint stone buildings and charming cobblestone streets. This idyllic town is brimming with traditional charm, from its prety shutered windows to its sun-dappled cafés. It’s relaxation with a dash of rustic elegance!
Saint-Rémy, like all of Provence, is packed in the summer months of July and August, when it can also get very hot. For early or late stays in June or September the temperatures are still good but there are less crowds. But Saint-Rémy is also ideal for an autumn escape, like the one we did in early November when we enjoyed sun and blue skies (it is said that Saint-Rémy has the good fortune to enjoy 300 days of balmy sunshine each year!)
Stay
Villa Marianne (Hideaways Club)
We stayed at Villa Marianne, one of the villas in the Hideaway Club collection, of which we are a member. The four-bedroom farmhouse near the village of Mollégès looks like it’s been lifted straight from a Provençal painting! The house is bordered by a traditional stone wall gate, with the elegant facade featuring light green shutters. Inside, Villa Marianne has a warm and inviting farmhouse atmosphere, with rustic touches including exposed wooden beams, cosy sofas and a log fire. The villa’s four bedrooms are decorated in a cosy, French country style.
The extensive outdoor spaces at Villa Marianne are a highlight, dotted with fruit trees and flowering plants. It really feels like you are in your own private country retreat. The garden is a great spot for outdoor dining, that we did even during our trip in November. There is a large swimming pool and pool house, with shaded seating and a spot for poolside refreshments.
Do
Eygalières
Just a short drive away is Eygalières, a postcard-perfect village that encapsulates the essence of Provence with its rustic charm and breathtaking views of the Alpilles mountains. This tiny village has narrow streets, stone houses and a centuries-old church. At the heart of the village is the Café de la Place, a beloved local spot where visitors and locals gather to sip coffee or enjoy a glass of rosé.
Château Romanin wine tour
Nestled in the Alpilles hills, Château Romanin is a biodynamic vineyard is known not just for its exceptional wines but for its extraordinary architecture. The château’s unique underground cellar is designed with astrological elements, creating a mystical atmosphere where wine and the cosmos are designed to align!
Carrières de Lumières
One of the most unique attractions in the region is the Carrières de Lumières, a series of immense limestone caves that have been transformed into an immersive art installation. Inside the caves, works by famous artists are projected onto the walls in a breathtaking display of color, light and sound. We have recommended this place to friends visiting during the heat of summer, as the cool interior provides an ideal escape. But we also had a great time during our Autumn visit.
Les Baux-de-Provence
A bit further away is Les Baux-de-Provence. Perched high on a rocky outcrop, this is one of the most beautiful villages in France. The medieval town offers stunning views over the surrounding countryside, with narrow streets leading to ancient ruins and charming stone buildings. The town’s historical significance is matched by its modern-day allure, with boutique shops, art galleries and delightful cafés making it a perfect place to wander and soak in the beauty of Provence.
Friday Market in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
The vibrant Friday market is one of the best in the region, with the market spilling through the town’s squares and streets, offering everything from fresh local produce to handmade crafts, Provençal textiles and artisanal cheeses.
Dine
Brunch at Aux Ateliers Chez Franck et Flo
We had a lovely, leisurely Sunday brunch at Aux Ateliers Chez Franck et Flo. The buffet is a true celebration of local flavours, with a tempting selection of hot dishes, artisanal cheeses, charcuterie and an entire table dedicated to indulgent desserts! The atmosphere is relaxed and convivial, with many of the seats at long, shared tables.
Chez Paulette, Eygalières
We had a rustic and charming Provençal dinner at Chez Paulette in Eygalières. It’s an intimate dining experience that feels like a cozy family gathering, with almost all the diners being locals: a good sign! The menu is based on simple yet flavourful Provençal classics. (for reservations, call +33 (0)4 32 62 18 19)
EDU, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
In the heart of Saint-Rémy, EDU offered more a contemporary twist on traditional Provençal cuisine. The restaurant brings modern techniques and creativity to the table whilst still showcasing the fresh, vibrant flavours of the region.
Image: https://www.edu-restaurant.com
L’Auberge de Saint-Rémy
L’Auberge de Saint-Rémy is a Michelin starred restaurant in Saint-Rémy where we had one our most memorable dinners out on this or any holiday. Chef Fanny Rey cooks up intricately designed and beautifully presented dishes that spotlights local produce, inspired by childhood memories or more recent experiences and emotions. Her partner Jonathan Wahid is an experienced pastry chef and previous French dessert champion. The interior design is also striking, with bare stone walls and a white ceiling imitating a wave.
Image: https://www.aubergesaintremy.com/en/the-restaurant-fanny-and-jonathan.html
Le Saint-Rémy
Le Saint-Rémy is another restaurant offering the Provençal fine dining. Set in a restored 19th century hôtel particulier, the restaurant has an elegant ambiance for a more refined night out. We would especially recommend it in the summer months, when there is a large, lovely outdoor terrace in the courtyard.
Image: https://www.le-saint-remy.fr/fr/restaurant-saint-remy-de-provence
Why a weekend in Saint Rémy?
A trip to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is the perfect Provençal experience, with charming villages, sunshine, beautiful countryside and food, food, food! The combination of authenticity and refinement is one that has kept us going back again and again.
