Château de Fonscolombe

There are castles, and then there are castles. This one dates back to the 1700s, which explains its unusual Italianate style, and only became a hotel in 2017, after three centuries as a private estate. Its setting, just to the north of Aix-en-Provence, endears it to wine lovers, as does the Fonscolombe winery itself, which produces organic reds, whites, and rosés. But the key to its appeal is that it’s quite simply the most luxurious hotel for many miles around.

Of its 50 rooms, 13 are set in the landmark castle building, which means they’ve got more character (and beautiful garden views) in exchange for slightly less space. Still, this isn’t Paris — square footage is ample all the way up and down the range, and the recent renovation means up-to-date modern comforts are universal as well, including a full-service spa occupying the old stables.

One of the best things about any chateau is the opportunity to wander acres and acres of grounds, and that’s certainly the case here. Just be close by at mealtimes: L’Orangerie, the indoor-outdoor restaurant, is spectacular, and serves a refined and inventive Provençal cuisine along with some extraordinary wines, some of them as local as can be.