(This article by Jenny Nguyen-Barron first appeared in ForbesLife. Click here to read the original)

Perhaps, like me, you’ve wondered what it’s like to be part of the old-world French aristocracy summering in the South of France. I envision days spent strolling amongst the heartbreaking natural beauty of hillside Provence within the private grounds of a luxurious country estate. And at the latest addition to Jocelyne Sibuet’s collection of luxe hotels, Domaine de la Baume, guests can experience a level of sumptuousness normally reserved for the old world’s gentry.

The elegantly refurbished 18^th century style French hideaway sits upon a vast 99 acre piece of land which was the residence of the famed expressionist painter Bernard Buffet and his late wife Annabel. Taking in the Domaine’s panoramic views and experiencing true quiet will help you quickly understand how Buffet must have thrived creatively in this serene home with a clear, inspired mind.

Today the Domaine’s picturesque grounds, suggestive of a more restrained Versailles, will visually delight guests as they explore the olive groves, ponds and manicured gardens, which all summon a feeling of pure, unadulterated bliss.

THE ROOMS

Each of the 15 rooms and suites have been given their own distinct personality and are furnished with carefully restored antiques, ornate headboards, soft comfortable beds and luxurious sheets. While the Domaine brings us back to the 18^th century, modern creature comforts like Wi-Fi and TV have not been forgotten ”“ the latter has even been fixed behind a vintage gilded mirror so as to blend in with the aesthetic. The bathrooms will meet the highest of expectations and also come with the deepest of bathtubs.

THE COMMON AREAS

Sibuet has given the Domaine’s interiors the same meticulous treatment by staying true to the 18^th century period but doing so through her own modern perspective where she takes French refinement and blends it with vivid Provençal colors like apricot, sky blue and crimson red. The Provençal interior aesthetic is also apparent in elements such as the terracotta tommette tiles and the elaborate toile de Jouy wall fabrics.

THE FOOD & WINE

There are many opportunities to sample the food and wine at Domaine de la Baume and all will live up to any expectations that come from the region’s celebrated food and wine culture.

Each day begins with a lavish breakfast spread served in the gardens overlooking that view you’ve probably become attached to. Lunch is the only meal not included in the price of the board but this is no reason to miss out on enjoying 3 delicately prepared courses beneath the Domaine’s majestic trees.

By the time aperitif hour begins you probably realize you don’t need any more food or wine but if previous dalliances are anything to go by, you’ll indulge anyway because it’s not every day you can have it this good.

The main event is dinner inside François Martin’s formal dining room and as expected it’s a lengthy affair. The 3-course dinner with fine wines selected from a sister property will rival some of the best meals you’ve ever had. Plus you can retire to your sleeping quarters at your own leisure since dinner and drinks are included in your room rate.

THE ACTIVITIES

Domaine de la Baume is the kind of place you won’t need to leave. With 99 acres, Sibuet has given purpose to each plot of land giving guests a seemingly endless list of activities. Start your stay by touring the grounds on foot ”“ admire the ponds, which are full of life and the olive groves, where olive oil is pressed directly on site.

A morning walk to explore the Domaine’s hiking terrain is a must. But before you leave, pack some bathers, a towel and make sure you tell the hotel staff that you’d like a massage inside the treatment room beneath the waterfalls. After your massage, keep climbing further because you’ll reach the Domaine’s cave and natural showers where you can jump in, get refreshed and ready for a round of tennis or Pétanque.

Afternoons are best-spent horseback riding, sun bathing by the pool or for the adventure seekers; mountain biking around the hillside town of Tourtour can be quite the energizing experience. And if the weather doesn’t perform the way it’s supposed to, there are plenty of indoor activities such as Provençal cooking classes or simply relaxing by the fireplace with a book.

Rooms at Domaine de la Baume start from 440€ to 1760€ a night.

http://en.domaine-delabaume.com/

2071 Route d’Aups, 83690 Tourtour, France
+33 4 83 13 27 27

(All images courtesy of Domaine de la Baume)

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