Airelles Gordes, La Bastide

Overview

Gordes, one of France's most beautiful villages, rises from the Luberon Valley like a masterpiece carved in stone. Its cobblestone streets wind past hidden courtyards and medieval ramparts, while the surrounding landscape unfolds in a timeless tableau of lavender fields, cypress trees, and ancient olive groves. Here, perched along the village's sun-warmed limestone cliffs, La Bastide reigns as a 16th-century Provençal palace. This historic maison captures both the grandeur and intimacy of an authentic 18th-century bastide, those traditional country houses that define the architectural heritage of Provence. The unassuming façade along the rue de la Combe belies the magnificent domain that stretches gracefully across the hillside – a hidden world of terrace gardens, historic interiors, and seemingly endless views of the Luberon Massif.

A Provençal palace, as you might expect, offers exceptional dining for all those staying within its walls. Two distinct restaurants on property, each with a sun-soaked terrace, showcase the diversity of Mediterranean gastronomy. Move between L'Orangerie, where refined Provençal cuisine is served beneath shade-giving mulberry trees, to multi-Michelin-starred chef Jean-François Piège's Clover Gordes, where innovative Mediterranean dishes and flame-grilled specialties are enjoyed against panoramic valley views. Or, roam further into Gordes to discover three other esteemed eateries in association with Airelles: from the iconic patisserie Ladurée to Le TIGrr, where Pan-Asian flavors merge with Provençal flair, and La Bastide de Pierres, a classic Italian trattoria in the heart of the village.

The spirit of wellness pervades every corner of La Bastide, from diving into the turquoise waters of its striking terrace pool, surrounded by ancient olive trees and majestic cypresses, to discovering the serenity of the Airelles Spa. Inspired by the historic abbeys of Provence, this 17,000-square-foot haven features vaulted ceilings and panoramic views, where treatments by healing hands showcase revered beauty brands such as Barbara Sturm and Tuscany's finest, Seed to Skin. Its treatment rooms and private terrace embrace the tranquility of nature, while the indoor pool, hammam, and sauna offer year-round relaxation.

Beyond the palace walls, La Bastide offers a gateway to the riches of the region. Days unfold at a leisurely Provençal pace, filled with hot air balloon rides over ochre cliffs, vintage Citroën 2CV adventures through lavender fields, yoga sessions in the gardens, or evening stargazing with an expert astronomer.

Available for exclusive use and idyllic garden events for up to 120 people, the palace provides an exceptional setting for celebrations that honor both the occasion and the timeless beauty of Provence. Here, from its privileged position above the Luberon Valley, La Bastide invites guests to experience the region's rich heritage, natural beauty, and gentle way of life.