A get away in Provence at the Couvent des Minimes

In the heart of Lubéron, the Couvent des Minimes is definitely not like other luxury hotels. Established in the typical and beautiful Provencal village of Mane, the hotel used to be a convent for Minim monks as early as 1613. Later it was abandoned and taken over in the 19th century by Franciscan nuns who planted fruit trees and vineyards, and that is the reason why it has such beautiful gardens today.

It has now become a 5 stars hotel belonging to Relais & Chateaux, with 46 rooms, 2 restaurants, a spa and a fitness area. Undoubtedly its wonderful spa displaying the cosmetics brand L’Occitane. It extends over an area of 7500 square feet with a hammam, a sauna, and a superb indoor swimming pool opening onto the garden.

With its warm yellow, it respects the traditional style of Provence and in addition to usual treatments, it offers authentic Provençal cares such as « Chaud-Froid Verveine », a body scrub with salts from Camargue, or « le Temps d’Oc », a relaxing massage…

Why go there ?

Obviously for a relaxing break in an amazing spa in the heart of Provence. But on top of that, the gastronomic experience there is absolutely amazing. The Couvent des Minimes has one restaurant, Le Cloître and a bistro, Le Pesquier. They are both handled by chef Jérôme Roy (who was trained by some the best Michelin starred chefs in France : Thierry Marx, Michel Troisgros and Pierre Gagnaire). The restaurant Le Cloître has one Michelin star and promotes a seasonal cuisine and local products. As for the bistro : Le Pesquier, it is located in a vaulted room and has a beautiful terrace with a view over the lavender fields. And last but not least, wine lovers will be able to taste some extraordinary wines at La Cornue, the wine cellar.