October 15th, 2007, by Mary Winston Nicklin
Explore Provence with Hostellerie Les Frenes, Avignon
Indian Summer reigns supreme in Provence. Why not steal away to the south of France and discover the lovely historic city of Avignon, the former papal stronghold surrounded by vineyards, medieval villages, and Roman ruins? Book a room at the charming Hostellerie Les Frênes, one of the newest members of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Located just five minutes outside the city, the hotel is a lovely Napoleon-style villa with 200-year old gardens dotted with Greco-Roman statues. There are only 20 guest rooms, decorated with period family heirloom furniture, and outfitted with luxurious modern amenities like private Jacuzzis, satellite TV and wireless Internet.
The hotel has put together the perfect package to experience the magical region of Provence. Enjoy a full day’s wine tasting with a sommelier from Provence. Take a jaunt to the picturesque village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape in the southern Rhone Valley, origin of some of France’s greatest wines. Explore the vineyards, taste the wines, and lunch on a delicious picnic prepared by the hotel’s chef. You’ll also enjoy full breakfast daily plus one dinner at Le Jardin des Frenes, the hotel’s excellent restaurant offering contemporary interpretations of traditional Provencal cuisine. Available until November 3, 2007, the Explore Provence package is priced from EUR 900 for two people for three nights.


I am very interested in traveling to France early summer of 08 to interesting places other than just Paris.