Fonscolombe castle : a paradise in Provence

You'd be hard-pressed to deny that this is a dream destination. Plus, the weather is always beautiful. Just a half-hour drive from Aix-en-Provence, the sublime Château de Fonscolombes is perfect for a getaway far from everything, disconnected from reality, with only the sound of birds disturbing the serenity.

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When you hear “5-star Relais & Châteaux,” you know it means excellence. In a charming family spirit where guests mingle from the lounges to the gardens, Fonscolombes impresses immediately with its imposing structure. This majestic 18th-century château, which hosted Queen Victoria (who even planted a tree here, fun fact), now offers 37 spacious rooms, all overlooking the park. In the morning, you might feel like royalty yourself as you open your windows to a domain that stretches as far as the eye can see.

While the rooms are enchanting, you’ll be drawn to the French garden with its pond, beds, and chairs scattered across the lawn, a lovely little chapel, and even a pétanque court. But the pièce de résistance is hidden behind the château: an immense pool where you can lounge on a deck chair all day. Psst: remember to bring a good book and sunscreen, because we bet you won’t want to leave.

Since the château is somewhat remote (a car is highly recommended), guests might be tempted to stay put. Luckily, the kitchens at Fonscolombes are busy from morning to night. Among our must-try favorites: the gargantuan Sunday brunch with a buffet of seafood and divine salads, lunch by the pool (just pick up the phone: drrinng, a Caesar salad by the pool, please), and of course, La Table de l’Orangerie, the refined starred restaurant led by chef Marc Fontanne. It's the dream, we tell you.

Find all current offers at fonscolombe.com.

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Also discover 5 ideas for a relaxing weekend near Paris and a dream day in the village of the Impressionists.