Visitors from all around the world flock to Provence for its perfect hilltop towns, lavender fields, fine foods, sunflower-filled gardens, stunning views of wine groves and world-class spas, making it one of the top honeymoon destinations in Europe. So when the five-star Coquillade Village Hôtel-Spa in the heart of the French countryside offers it all within the confines of its own property—down to the little fountain that symbolizes the centre of a French town— it’s easy to understand why you would never want to leave.

 

The aptly named Coquillade Village itself, where the hotel is situated, is the epitome of a hilltop French town. Driving in to Coquillade feels right out of a French postcard: its impressive cypress tree-lined driveway lets you know you are in for a special stay. Much like a Provence town, the property has both an “old quarter” of rooms, with its original foundation, and a newer quarter of rooms—both equally luxurious and chic. It bodes three restaurants: Le Bistrot (a twist between traditional Provencal food and gastronomic fare), Ristorante (a fabulous Italian restaurant that features exquisite variety) and Le Gourmet (Coquillade Village’s fine dining option). A special treat for those visiting in the warmer months is Le Jardin Dans Les Vignes, which translates to “the garden in the vines”: a serene sitting area right by the property’s vineyard that is perfect for happy hour, or for dinner under their covered but open dining space.

The 2017 winner of the World Luxury Spa Awards, it is easy to see why their Spa & Wellness Centre requires reservations days or weeks in advance: locals and visitors alike make a special trip to Coquillade Village’s 1,500 square metre idyllic oasis of well-being. Featuring a sauna, hammam, steam bath, Kneipp baths, ice foundation, sensory shower, heated indoor pool, outdoor jacuzzis by the vineyard, relaxation room, tea room and private garden—not to mention their signature treatments and lavender-infused products—several visits over the course of the stay add to the ideal relaxing honeymoon itinerary.

 

For a private romantic experience, the spa is equipped with couples’ spa-suites, where you can be pampered with your significant other. Yoga, Pilates and a full suite of gym classes are also offered for those looking to stay a bit active.

 

With everything available within a short walk at Coquillade Village, you may be so happy you won’t find the need to venture off the property. But you should: while not only in the heart of wine country, you are also in the heart of bicycle country (Tour de France much?) Famous Swiss bicycle brand BMC has an outpost at the property, where you can rent, buy, or repair bikes and related accessories. What sounds like an intimidating process geared towards professional cyclists is surprisingly one of the biggest pleasures and perks of Coquillade Village.

 

“While we cater to many cycling groups, communities and professional organizations, it is equally important to us that we create an experience in which the family members of those riders can also partake in the activity with their loved ones,” says General Manager Carmen Wunderli. “At other properties, the family members of those who ride are often left to enjoy a spa or other activity. While there’s nothing wrong with that, there is something to be said for spending that time together.”

Indeed, honeymooners should seek this specialty offering out, and rent one of the property’s many electric bikes—the absolute perfect way to enjoy a custom tour with a local rider who knows the ins and outs of all the small towns and scenic views, and will have you leisurely zipping past lavender fields, olive groves, potato fields, sunflower fields, quaint neighbourhoods, views of the enormous Mont Ventoux mountain, and endless fig trees along the way (if you’re lucky and they’re in season, be prepared to stop for a little snack that will change the way you think of fresh figs). This is by far one of the most romantic and quintessentially French experiences honeymooners can enjoy in beautiful Provence, and it is right at your doorstep. La vie est belle!

 

The options are endless when it comes to a honeymoon in the South of France, but choosing a place with authenticity, quality and luxury is the reason to choose Coquillade Village. By the end of your honeymoon, you’ll feel like a true local, with a favourite village, a few bottles to bring home and countless memories of your French fairytale.