When living in a glamorous country like Monaco, sometimes it’s nice to get away from it. In the South of France, one of the best places for a relaxing escape is Tourtour. Located midway between Provence and Côte d’Azur, near the Verdon Gorges in the heart of 9 acres of pine woodland, this is the perfect spot to take in the incredible natural beauty of Provence.
When I heard about this small, family-run hotel located at an altitude of 635m and offering a 180km panoramic view, it was the perfect excuse to skip Monaco and hit the sky!
Here’s my experience staying at La Bastide de Tourtour.
Getting To La Bastide de Tourtour Hôtel & Spa
In a protected environment, the Bastide de Tourtour Hôtel & Spa is a one and a half hour drive from Nice airport. The trip there will take you through some gorgeous Provençal scenery before the road ends at this beautiful Bastide. Choose to take the little roads instead of the highway.
Helpful tip: Be sure to stop at Les Adrets de l’Esterel where you will admire the lakes of Avellan and Saint Cassien. These two lakes are a paradise on earth for anglers. In addition, Saint Cassien Lake has several small beaches with bathing facilities as well as snack bars and pedal-boats.
The Hotel
Arriving at La Bastide de Tourtour Hôtel & Spa feels like coming home. This four-star hotel has only a 23 rooms and a staff that is beyond accommodating.
It’s a breath of fresh air compared to staying at big chain hotels.
As this place looks like it’s suspended in the air, it feels like you’re a million miles away from anywhere. The secluded courtyard garden is the perfect place to lie back and forget about the world. You’ll find super comfy loungers beside the pool, and during the winter, there’s a heated indoor pool, hamman, sauna and jacuzzi, which is perfect for warm afternoons in a cocoon of tranquility.
The Rooms at La Bastide de Tourtour Hôtel & Spa
I was lucky enough to stay in one of the most beautiful rooms of the hotel. I loved the large patio which opened to an exceptional view over the mountains of the Massif des Maures, the Estérel and the Sainte Baume.
Enjoying a glass of wine and waking up to this breathtaking view was the pinnacle of relaxation. Once sat on the comfortable chair there, I just forgot everything and took time for myself.
This place has all of the mod cons, like powerful Wi-Fi and satellite TV.
The Food at La Bastide de Tourtour Hôtel & Spa
La Bastide de Tourtour Hôtel & Spa offers a seasonal cuisine with fresh products. I especially liked the view from which I had my breakfast. I chose to sit in the Orangeraie, the lovely terrace from which you can admire the panoramic view over the Maures Mountain before reading a book to the shades of the trees.
For dinner, Chef Stéphane Martinot cooked a delicate, gourmet cuisine. I loved the foie gras and the desert, a tasty fruit tart.
Activities at La Bastide de Tourtour Hôtel & Spa
As you would have understood, La Bastide de Tourtour has a spa. From a heated indoor pool, hamman, sauna, to a Jacuzzi, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a moment of total relaxation.
I had the chance to be pampered by one of the therapists and I have to say it was pure pleasure. The massage was done with the wonderful products Sothys. Obviously a great professional she combined her experience, delicacy and strength to make this moment fabulous following the brand’s exclusive treatment techniques and protocols.
Outside of the hotel, you would miss something if you would not go visit the cute little town of Tourtour, one of the most beautiful villages in France, known as “the village in the sky”.
Just nearby, the Verdon Gorges in the heart of 9 acres of pine woodland is a place you must go to as well.
I am sure you will love the hotel as much as the area so go for an escape in the sky and enjoy the Provence beauty. Check the hotel’s last offers, there is 100% something for you!
Visit La La Bastide de Tourtour website and call to book +33 (0)4 98 10 54 20
Location : La Bastide de Tourtour – Route de Flayosc – 83690 Tourtour
