Co-owned by Hollywood star, Christophe Lambert, the 5-star Le Pigonnet is an enchanting hideaway on the outskirts of Aix-en-Provence. Approached by a tree-lined private avenue on one side and picturesque gardens on the other, this 18th country house hotel has been welcoming guests for almost a century.
During that time, the property has been continually extended and upgraded and today it is a charming maze of intimate nooks, resplendent with local style and modern luxury. The welcome is warm and friendly, and a concierge service can attend to every whim.
The magical gardens play host to 100-year-old chestnut trees, numerous babbling fountains, ornamental ponds, fragrant rose bowers, a terrace, and outdoor heated pool. Paul Cezanne was a frequent visitor and painted his beloved Mont Ste-Victoire from various garden locations.
The 48 rooms and suites are individually decorated and vary in both size and style. The blue, cream and ochre palette reflects the colors of Provence, and there’s a choice of traditional or contemporary style. There are four categories of room from Single to Deluxe, with a Communicating Room for families. Suites enjoy garden terraces and there is a dedicated Family Suite, which can sleep up to six. For more privacy, there is also a Private Villa, with four en-suite bedrooms and a private heated pool.
La Table du Pigonnet has been serving diners since 1924 in some style. This light and airy space boasts arched windows, which open out to the garden. Describing itself as ‘semi-gastronomic,’ the outstanding quality of the seasonal Mediterranean-inspired menu and top-notch wine list, make this a destination restaurant. Before and after dinner, guests can relax over a drink in Le 1924, the hotel’s cosy bar, full of old-world charm. During the warmer months, from May to October, the bar decamps to garden.
Along with the outdoor heated pool, there is a pétanque court, spa, and wellness center, along with a fitness room. While the museums, shops and cafés of Aix are just a stroll away, the hotel offers a shuttle service. Further afield, Marseilles, the Luberon and Avignon are all within an hour’s drive.
