Terre Blanche

From a certain perspective, Terre Blanche looks like another picturesque Provençal village, all sun-washed stone exteriors and winding tree-line paths, among the ancient Roman hill towns of the Pays de Fayence. Look a little closer, however, and the former Four Seasons resort (now independent) turns out to be anything but rustic, the sleeping quarters ranging from sunny, well-appointed suites to villas that live up to their name, the grounds home to everything from a secluded standalone spa to a pair of championship-caliber golf courses.

The golf courses, for many guests, are the major draw. Designed by Dave Thomas, architect of the Belfry, in Warwickshire, they wind through the surrounding oak and pine forests, with views of the nearby villages and the alps in the distance. For the traveler really on a mission to improve their game, there’s also the Terre Blanche Golf Academy, plus some high technology for diagnosing whatever ails your swing. (Anyone for “kinematic analysis” followed by a round of eighteen?)

While golf is Terre Blanche’s raison d’être, it’s hardly the only way to relax. The hotel’s spa, reached via a wooded path and awash in the scents of flowers and herbs from the surrounding gardens, is a haven of tranquility — which is saying something when you’re already on a peaceful seven-hundred-acre estate amidst the quiet of Eastern Provence. For some additional peace and quiet, leave the little ones at the kids’ club. With a dedicated kids’ pool, a wide range of structured indoor and outdoor activities, and a well-stocked game room at their disposal, they’ll be well taken care of.

And then there’s the time-honored pastime of taking long, leisurely meals. This, after all, is the south of France, and Terre Blanche’s four restaurants make fine use of the local bounty. Ingredients like foie gras, truffles and all manner of seasonal veggies are regulars on the menus; an on-site bakery turning out fresh breads, pastries and classic French desserts dispels any lingering stress over the odd stray shot on the links.

How to get there:
Terre Blanche is located 40 miles from Cannes.