French Countryside Chic

During the Summer we stayed in the most beautiful French boutique hotel near Arles and Nimes called Domaine des Clos.

This beautiful countryside retreat is an 18th Century converted wine estate with 9 bedrooms and 9 apartments (all of which are quite different) which the owners have lovingly restored in a tasteful, rustic-chic style, maintaining many of the buildings’ original features.

As soon as we arrived, we were bowled over by the beauty of the place. The gardens are beautifully kept and you are spoilt for choice for stunning picnic, reading and barbecue spots.

We loved the stylish details paired with the simple but beautifully restored old buildings. Nothing was overdone or overthought. Just rustic chic at it’s best.

The accommodation ranges a lot so it’s worth having a good look at their website to see what best suits you. We loved the two bedroom apartment in the Dovecote. A few of the bedrooms are more rustic than chic and the bathrooms are ‘gite-style’ (curtains around the sinks) but don’t let that put you off – it really is a lovely place to stay.

As much as the hotel has a ‘French feel’, there are some eclectic and tropical touches everywhere you look. The swimming pool is a great example of this, with it’s tropical planting and Moroccan-style covered terrace.

Total bliss…..as was breakfast!

Sitting in the dappled morning sunlight eating fresh fruit, yoghurts, local cheeses, charcuterie, eggs and a huge choice of breads & pastries was heaven.

If you can tear yourself away, there’s a lot to do nearby if you have a hire car. The Camargue with it’s beautiful white horses and wildlife is not far and I particularly loved the city of Arles which is only a 20 minute drive away. With a host of Roman ruins, narrow characterful streets and great restaurants it’s difficult to beat.

If you’re not vegetarian do try the local dish of bull stew which is usually slow-cooked in red wine with olives and served with rice – it’s delicious!