Airelles Gordes, La Bastide

Airelles Gordes, La Bastide is a stunningly gorgeous hotel perched perfectly on a hill, overlooking a valley in Provence. Hotel: The hotel is a maze of connected buildings. It’s very vertical, which it has to be given the hillside setup. Walls are thick stone. Interiors are richly decorated in a sort of old French opulent-maximalist style. Beauty is constant everywhere. Rooms: We had a two-bedroom, two-bath suite with an amazing terrace facing the valley. It was spectacular. It was hard to believe, really. Our sons had a small room facing the street. The small room was very nice, but I strongly recommend that you reserve a room facing the valley. Trust me: It’s worth it. Don’t skimp at this price point. Just go all in. Food: Breakfast is in the main restaurant and everyone sits on the terrace outside. The breakfast spread is great. They have a buffet of everything and also a small a la carte menu. We weren’t able to eat outside at dinner at this same restaurant because of the wind, which seems to be a regular issue in the evenings in the region. Sitting inside is nice enough, though. The dinner menu is decidedly French. The hotel has at least one more restaurant on the grounds — also French — and Airelles operates an Italian restaurant in Gordes. There are other restaurant options in Gordes as well. Make reservations. We worked with the concierge before we arrived. Service: This hotel is the kind of place where they can and will do anything for you. We had vans take us around the area. We shipped ceramics. We ordered all manner of food and beverages to the room and it all came just lighting quick. Tipping goes a long way, but service is amazing no matter what. The general manager is onsite and interacts with guests. Locale: You can get here on a fast train from Paris in under three hours (and then a short hotel van from Avignon). Marseilles is the closest major airport. Provence is lovely. Several villages and towns and easily accessible. Roussillon is pretty but very busy. Lacoste is artsy. Our favorite was Saignon; the square was just perfect and there were almost zero tourists. St. Remy was a bit of a letdown but that may have been based on expectations. La Nerth, a winery, was amazing and well worth a visit. The abbey just down the road from the hotel is a must-see. Activities: We played croquet. We admired the swimming pool and could not believe how dreamy and beautiful it was. We stood on our terrace in awe. We did a kayaking trip from Cassis. We did a private picnic where we arrived in a vintage Citroen 2CV and the Airelles staff had set out champagne and delicious hors d'oeuvres. It was windy but amazing. Highly recommend! Overall: Airelles Gordes is as close to perfect as you going to get for a luxury hotel anywhere in the world. The reviewers here who give less than five stars are just ridiculous. Is it expensive? Yes! Can you quibble? Sure: The hot water was slightly less than ideal during one shower and the light in a closet wouldn’t turn off. But, ultimately, this place is just fabulous. If you are lucky enough to be able to stay here, you should definitely take the opportunity as soon as possible.

This is our fifth and final day at this exceptional hotel—and I truly wish we could stay longer. From the start, communication was flawless. José provided outstanding assistance in the weeks leading up to our stay, helping to organize everything from a wine tour, to a hot air balloon ride over the lavender fields, to restaurant reservations, and much more. His responsiveness and attention to detail made planning effortless. Upon arrival, we were not disappointed—our room exceeded expectations in every way. One of the most delightful surprises were the thoughtful nightly turndown service. Rather than the typical chocolates or cookies, we were gifted unique, memorable keepsakes that will always remind us of this special stay. The twice-daily housekeeping service was flawless, and the entire staff—from the front desk to every team member we encountered—was consistently warm, professional, and attentive. It’s no surprise, as we had the pleasure of meeting Angela Kruez, the hotel’s director, on several occasions. Her friendly, approachable manner sets the tone for the entire team, and it’s clear her leadership is reflected throughout the property. As far as the food, breakfast each morning was simply outstanding—both the quality of the food and the impeccable service were five-star. We also dined at the hotel’s Italian restaurant, La Bastide de Pierres, where we enjoyed an excellent salad and pizza. Another evening, we had cocktails and sushi at Le Tigre, also located at the hotel, which did not disappoint. If you have the chance to enjoy the pool you will probably run into Tom - one of the hardest working pool attendants I have met. Also if you have lunch by the pool, don’t pass up the Club Sandwich—it’s easily one of the best I’ve ever had. Today, we also had the opportunity to experience the hotel’s outstanding spa. From the moment we arrived, Annabel at the reception desk greeted us with warmth and professionalism, setting the perfect tone. The treatments themselves were exceptional—Valentine delivered one of the best deep tissue massages I’ve ever had, and my wife thoroughly enjoyed both her relaxing massage and rejuvenating facial with Melissa. Each therapist was not only highly skilled but also made the entire experience feel personalized and luxurious. La Bastide de Gordes is truly something special, and we are already looking forward to returning on our next trip to Provence!

My wife an I spent 3 nights here last week and we can honestly say it's one of the best hotel experiences we've had anywhere. The room was very nice and well appointed especially for such a historic building. Each day, room service would leave little "gifts" with the turndown service. The little included "extras' really go a long way. Love the fact that there is free laundry included every day. The service was spectacular. Everyone was always eager to help and with a big smile on their face. We got to know a few of the staff members and it seems like Airelles really takes care of their employees well and in return, workers keep coming back each season. You can tell people feel passionate about he place. It's not "just a job". The pool is beautiful, as is the town of Gordes. Be sure to go to the lookout point at the south edge of town some morning to watch the sun rise over the town and valley. Many fun towns to check out- we hit up Rousillon, Menerbes, LaCoste- all fun to explore. We will definitely try to return some day.

We went on a small getaway with my boyfriend for 3 days (perfect time length). The hotel is just beautiful, it is an old renovated style, but what makes this hotel truly special is the service by the staff. From A to Z, we were taken care of. Upon arrival, Manon gave us a wonderful tour of the hotel. In the room, as welcome amenities, you get a tote bag and a pyjamas set: Small details that made us feel at home. Every evening, you get a small attention put on the bed. (a candle, a pochette...) Baptiste from the pool was the highlight of our trip. He always had a smile on his face and gave us great recommendations. We tried all of the restaurants open at that time of the season, La Table, Clover, Pool Bar, and Bar. We will have to come back for the Tigrr. Our favorite one was La Table; we loved the ambiance, and the eggplant starter was delicious. On one of the rainy days, we had a great massage at the SPA, which we recommend. We used our car a couple of times during the trip, and the doorbell guys always made sure we weren't missing anything. Lastly and most importantly, Eliot, the concierge, was the STAR of the hotel! He made all of our wishes come true from arrival with the flower arrangement my boyfriend requested and to the departure with the Brie Truffle Cheese. Lastly, macarons for the car ride were greatly appreciated alongside the personnalized bag tags. Huge thank you to everyone! We will be back soon!

Wow! Can’t describe how wonderful this place is. I stayed with my family in this lovely hotel and we had the time of our lives. The room was incredible and the views breathtaking. We also really enjoyed our experience at the restaurant and the breakfast. The spa is just perfection and the pool I ideal.