Domaine Les Roullets

A beautiful B&B set in 7 hectares of gardens and vineyards, with fancy rooms, open terraces and a sparkling pool

This fortified farm stands midway between Oppède and Ménerbes, villages that found themselves on opposite sides during the Religious Wars, hence the defenses. But times change and these days the farm stands in 7 hectares of blissful peace, half of which are home to a small vineyard; soon you’ll be able to drink its wine.

Wander through the beautifully manicured landscape and find olive trees by the score, balls of lavender to scent the air, lawns that sprawl under the shade of tall pines and fabulous views of the Luberon. There are a couple of fountains, a glistening pool and a terrace for breakfast in the sun, but best of all are the seriously indulgent rooms. Expect stone walls, big beds, leather heads, lots of contemporary art; bathrooms are predictably funky too. Elsewhere, local hilltop villages (all with super restaurants) host an extensive programme of summer events, including opera in a disused quarry courtesy of Pierre Cardin. Mont Ventoux is close for cyclists, while antique hunters will love L’Isle-sur-La-Sorgue.

Highs

• The house and setting are both spectacular
• The stylish rooms don’t hold back - expect a little luxury
• This is a supremely peaceful spot; if you’re looking for silence, you’ll find it here
• The immediate area is teeming with hilltop villages and vineyards

Lows

• There's no restaurant and you’re out in the country, so most nights you’ll have to drive out to eat
• The dinners served twice a week are convivial communal affairs - great if you're feeling sociable, but not the best if you want some privacy
• You'll need a car if you want to explore the area
• It’s not child-friendly - a high for some