For what occasion: Play at being Bonnie & Clyde with your other half for getaway a weekend in the Alpilles region between Arles and Avignon. Far from pollution alerts, crowded metros and work meetings, disconnect #OKLM
The place: lost in the middle of nature amongst 5 hectares of olive trees, lavender and arty works, an authentic hamlet with pool, tennis court, pétanque area and outbuildings, without any provençal folklore and deluxe bling. A design buff, the owner switched kitschy traditional decorations for vintage design furniture from the 50s to the 70s and works by contemporary artists— absolutely brilliant. You can even depart with the armchair in your room or a pain painting from the living room, because everything is for sale.
The trick to test absolutely: timeless guinguette evenings on the charming « village place » of the property. How about knocking back cold rosé along with chic plates from the fun retro food-truck. Tops also, outdoor movies every Tuesday night all Summer long. Small accessible pleasures without even having to stay in the hotel.
While you are there: rolling aimlessly along ultra bucolic roads that have a nice Holiday feel, aboard one of the 7 vintage topless cars available for rent by the day. Be sure to stop at l’Avant-Goût du Hameau, an eat-in grocery store in a nearby village.
Travel time: count 3h for the roundtrip Paris – Avignon TGV + 30 minutes or driving from the train station to the hamlet.
Count 290€ per room in full season.
