Luxury Luberon spa hotel, Domaine de Fontenille

Imagine staying in a glorious 19th century Provencal country estate surrounded by mighty cedars, olive trees and resplendent vineyards framed by the rolling Luberon hills of the Durance Valley. Transformed in 2013 by architect Alexandre Lafourcade, Domaine de Fontenille is now a luxury spa hotel and exceptional wine domaine, with nineteen beautifully appointed bedrooms, two restaurants and a spa. The original architecture has been carefully restored subtly blending the old and new to create this delightful haven.

Location

Situated on the outskirts of the Luberon village of Lauris, Domaine de Fontenille is 5 minutes from Lourmarin, 25 minutes from Aix-en-Provence, 45 minutes from Avignon and Marseille Airport, 50 minutes from Marseille and just over an hour from the coastal destinations of Cassis and Bandol. If you’re visiting the region a stay in Fontenille would be the perfect place to explore the serenity and beauty of the Luberon.

History

The original bastide dates from 1638 and belonged to the Savornin family. In 1850 Alphonse de Savornin built the gorgeous Provencal country property we see today. His granddaughter Amélie, later developed the park like grounds. In 2014 the current owners restored and developed it to its present glory.

The 17th century vaulted cellar has become the reception hall and the old wine cellars a Center for Contemporary Art. The ground floor reception rooms opening onto the terrace have been tastefully refurbished and overlook the stunning gardens.

Wine at Domaine de Fontenille

Under the guidance of oenologist and agricultural engineer Laurence Berlemont, an expert in Provence wines, the estate has now been fully restored to the 35 hectares it was in 1748. Since 2018 the production has been totally organic.

Le Cave de Domaine de Fontenille

Sample the domaine’s cuvées; Amélie, Fontenille and Alphonse in white, rosé and red at the tasting rooms; Le Cave de Domaine de Fontenille (across the road from the hotel). Open every day all year: 10.00 -13.00 & 14.00 -19.00, no reservations required.

La Boutique du Lourmarin

From April 1 to September 30 tasting is also available in Lourmarin on Place de la Fontaine, 2 rue du Grand Pré: Open every day : 10.00 – 13.00 & 14.00-18.00

At any time of year Fontenille’s terrace is the perfect setting to enjoy one of the domaine’s vintages, surrounded by the ambience of this special place.

Restaurants at Domaine de Fontenille

Fontenille has two restaurants overseen by Chef Benjamin Pâtissier. Both profile locally sourced products about 80% from the hotel’s own garden.

Le Champ des Lunes

Le Champ des Lunes is a Michelin-starred gourmet treat. Open all year, (From February to the end of May closed Sunday evening, Monday and Tuesday all day). Set Menu from 58 euros. Click here for full details and reservations

La Cuisine d’Amélie

From the terrace overlooking the beautiful grounds or in the south reception rooms, La Cuisine d’Amélie offers a delicious and creative choice of small plates. Breakfast is also served here. Open all year, (February to the end of May closed Wednesday and Thursday all day). Click here for menus and reservations

Summer musical evenings

Throughout the summer the hotel hosts wonderful musical evenings set within its breathtaking grounds

Enjoy a casual BBQ supper on the terrace or come just for the music. We loved it, the food was delicious and the performances were excellent, we’re looking forward to returning this year.

The Spa at Fontenille

In addition to the fitness room and 20 meter heated outdoor swimming pool Fontenille also has a spa. Combining the natural beauty of the hotel’s tranquil setting the spa offers bespoke treatments to meet client’s specific needs.

Spa Senses Day I’m excited to try one of Fontenille’s special Senses Days ~ a 50 minute treatment with lunch at either La Cuisine d’Amélie, or Le Champ des Lunes restaurant and complimentary use of the hotel pool all day. A perfect indulgence to pamper oneself. Click here for Reservations and Spa Menu