Chateau de Massillan

Parkland, peace and a courtyard pool at this 1555 chateau with sublime 21st-century interiors, north of Avignon

The Chateau was built in 1555 for Diane de Poitiers, a mistress of Henry II. Perhaps he wanted her discreetly hidden away, perhaps she loved the deep country. Either way, you’ll thank them for it. You’re grandly lost to the world here, the silence of 23 acres of parkland wrapping around you, with majestic avenues of plane trees and a weeping willow that dips her branches into a small lake. The hotel - old bricks and mortar, crisply elegant contemporary interiors - offers what the price demands: unabashed aristocratic flair.

There are vaulted ceilings, stone-arched doors and claw-foot baths in turreted bathrooms. A central courtyard is the hub of the hotel, with fountains, arched colonnades and a smart pool, but the winter garden, a room open to the elements, is best of all, its stone pillars, huge mirrors and fat art deco chandeliers the very definition of cool understated opulence. Light and airy bedrooms are sprinkled all over the place and have a clean contemporary simplicity. Some look onto the courtyard, others over parkland. Don’t miss the night sky.

Highs

• The courtyard, for the pool, the fountains and the winter garden
• Sumptuous bedrooms: cool, uncluttered, contemporary, elegant
• The parkland setting, with lake, fields and woods
• Well placed for vineyards, lavender fields, truffles, and the biggest antique market in France
• Follow paths through the forest: mountain biking, horse riding, hiking and kayaking can all be arranged

Lows

• It’s expensive, but you get a lot for your money
• The restaurant is closed in low season
• It's a fair way north of Provence's prime attractions - but Avignon, Orange and the Cotes du Rhone are on your doorstep