Bijoux B&B's - Perfect Provence Hideaways

For those looking for special getaways, the choice has never been better. There is no shortage of historic, characterful buildings in Provence and many have been transformed in recent years into charming places to stay.

Here we have brought together some of the loveliest boutique establishments throughout the area. Each has unique accommodation, beautifully restored or decorated and all have been receiving consistently excellent guest reviews.

La Maison d'Aix - Aix-en-Provence

La Maison d'Aix is a Hotel Particulier in the heart of the city of Aix. This wonderful 18th century townhouse has been sympathetically restored to provide four rooms and suites of refined taste. With 300 year old teak floors and modern classic furniture, the bedrooms are bold and minimal. There is a small spa area with swimming pool in the basement and a richly decorated salon for relaxing. There is no restaurant, but you are a stones throw away from the Cours Mirabeau and the pedestriansed quarter with their large choice of eateries. Rates start from €320, rising to €520 during the Aix Festival season.

L'Hotel Particulier - Arles

A wonderful example of where old meets new can be found in L'Hotel Particulier in the southern historic city of Arles. With only five rooms and suites, it is small but perfectly formed. The style is modern Louis 14th, with ornate beds and modern takes on furniture. With white panelled walls, French mirrors and floor to ceiling windows, the bedrooms are bright and airy, and beautifully understated. There is a spa, garden and swimming pool, but no restaurant. This 18th mansion is located in the old town of Arles, with plenty of restaurants and sights within walking distance. Rooms start from €289 and rise to €309 in high season (April to September inclusive). Breakfast is extra, and the hotel opens for the season on 20th March 2016.

La Maison sur la Sorgue - Isle sue la Sorgue

You will find more old fashioned charm mixed with cutting edge technology in La Maison sur la Sorgue, located in the bustling town of Isle sur la Sorgue (known for it's antiques shops & markets, and waterwheels). This guest house has four spacious bedrooms with exposed wooden beams, armchairs and object d'art, combined with modern bathrooms. Valet parking is available and there is a heated swimming pool in the garden. There is no restaurant for dinner but there is a good choice of restaurants in the immediate area. Rates are from €280 to €410 depending on the season and room type. Isle sur la Sorgue is located about 40 minutes to the east of Avignon.

La Clos Saint Saourde - north of Carpentras

To the north east of Avignon close to the village of Beaumes de Venise (famous for it's Muscat wine) is the amazing Le Clos Saint Saourde. This area is awash with vineyards, with Gigondas and Chateauneuf du Pape both a short drive away. The old farmhouse is built into rock so the four spacious bedrooms all feature exposed stone walls, creating an unique place to stay. Decor is neutral and classy, and modern-traditional bathrooms blend seamlessly. There is a swimming pool, and children are welcome (a private 8-10 person cottage is also available on the premises). No restaurant on site, but the area is blessed with gourmet restaurants in the surrounding hilltop villages. Rates start at €180 in low season, to €320 for a suite in high season (breakfast included).

Hotel Le Saint Laurent - north of Avignon

A somewhat more colourful choice would be Hotel Le Saint Laurent, a three star hotel in the village of Saint-Laurent-des-Arbres, about 20 minutes drive north of Avignon. The interiors are lavished with beautiful objects from travels abroad, and the 10 bedrooms are individually decorated but share an opulence thanks to the use of rich silk and velvet fabrics. Meals can be taken on the patio or in the atmospheric dining room, and there is a swimming pool and relaxation area. Rooms are priced from €95 in low season up to €225 in high season, breakfast is extra. Families are welcome.

Une Autre Maison - Nyons

Further north in the Drome region is Une Autre Maison. This wonderful guest house in the heart of historic Nyons has 10 bedrooms, decorated in a shabby chic style. Distressed lime washed walls and rustic wooden furniture create a dreamy romantic feel. There is a small swimming pool in the garden and the kitchen creates excellent Provencal cuisine. The small town of Nyons is best known for it's olive production, but there is some fabulous architecture to admire in the medieval quarter, and plenty of outdoor pursuits to enjoy. Rates start at €85 for room only in low season, and rise to €282 for half board in high season.

To find more Charming B&B's or Boutique Hotels in Provence, or have a look at other types of accommodation then check out our Hotel Listings.