Last Updated on March 17, 2025
Have you ever been to Provence? If not, you need to think about putting it on your travel wish list.
Provence is a magnificently picturesque region in the southeastern part of France, known for its stunning landscapes, rich history and vibrant culture. Situated between the Rhône River and the Mediterranean Sea, it encompasses a variety of terrains, including hills, vineyards, olive groves and charming villages.
Provence is also known for its lavender fields that bloom in late spring to early summer, creating a purple sea of flowers. The region also boasts a stunning coastline with sparkling blue waters, and cities like Nice, Cannes and Marseille are famous for their beaches, cliffs and harbor views.
So, now that I’ve shared the beauty of the region and some of the reasons to visit, the next question is, “Where to stay?”
Nestled in Provence’s Var region between Lorgues and Flayosc, the five-star Château de Berne — part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux collection — has reopened its doors, kicking off a new season defined by excellence and refinement.
As a genuine wine tourism destination, this Mediterranean estate invites guests to embark on a journey steeped in the spirit of provencale dolce vita. Set amid 1270 acres of southern countryside including 370 acres of organic vineyards, Château de Berne showcases the art of living in all its splendor, a blend of authentic luxury, a vibrant terroir and passionate, generous savoir-fare.
For the new season, Guiseppe Cosmal’s arrival as general manager marks the beginning of a new chapter for the estate. With more than 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality, he brings a vision focused on long-term excellence with an ambition to elevate Château de Berne’s unique identity as an iconic wine destination in Provence.
About the Boutique Hotel in Provence
Guests may choose from 34 rooms and suites with decor paying homage to the authenticity and richness of Provencial heritage with fine materials and natural colors subtly evoking the estate’s natural surroundings. Panoramic views of the hills and vineyards provide an atmosphere of relaxation and timeless beauty.
The estate features three swimming pools, including two outdoor pools and one indoor. Each offers a space dedicated to relaxation, soothed by the gentle Mediterranean climate. The jardins à la française, representing true works of landscape art, invite contemplation amidst the soothing shade of umbrella pines and the gentle fragrance of lavender.
Bespoke Luxury Estate Houses
Seven luxury homes on the estate offer a unique experience where privacy and comfort are paired with elegance. Each private property can accommodate between three and 20 guests providing spacious terraces, most offering a private pool, along with the château’s exclusive hotel services.
Nestled in the heart of the vineyards and olive groves, these houses provide an ideal setting for stays with family or friends. Each home grants personalized access to private tastings, a private chef, cooking classes, wine tourism activities and other tailor-made services.
Gastronomy
Le Jardin de Berne, distinguished by a Michelin star and Green Star, embodies the excellence of a cuisine that honors the seasons and the bounty of its terroir.
Under the direction of Chef Louis Rameau and Pastry Chef Éric Raynal, each creation pays homage to nature’s abundance, showcasing ingredients from the estate’s three vegetable gardens spanning over 3,000 meters. Vegetables, berries, fruits, aromatic herbs and flowers are cultivated here in line with sustainable farming principles.
The estate’s 25-acre expanse also contributes to the exceptional ecosystem, yielding Château de Berne’s signature olive oil, acclaimed for its green fruitiness and finesse.
Chef Rameau’s signature dishes such as red mullet fillet with wild fennel espuma or roasted pigeon with Mediterranean herbs, reveal authentic flavors with a blend of minimalism, creativity and refinement.
Exclusive Dining Experiences
Gastronomy enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the world of Jardin de Berne with two exclusive dining experiences: the Table du Pass and Salon des Vignes. Chef Louis Rameau invites groups of two to ten guests to share an intimate, behind-the-scenes dinner in his kitchen with the chef and his team.
For a more private and immersive experience, the Salon des Vignes offers a special meal overlooking the vineyards with a view of the expansive, bustling kitchen. The private dining experience is accompanied by the chef himself, providing an unforgettable gastronomic journey.
Le Bistrot also offers diners the classics of Provencial cuisine under the guidance of Aurélie Liautaud, while L’Olivier de Berne celebrates Mediterranean flavours. With its vast terrace overlooking the vineyards, the bright and welcoming restaurant is an invitation to enjoy the fine outdoor weather.
Wellness Offerings
The Spa Cinq Mondes & Vinésime is an 8,600-square-foot wellness sanctuary offering a serene escape in perfect harmony with Château de Berne’s natural surroundings. Its treatments, crafted from organic grapes grown on the estate, deliver rejuvenating benefits inspired by the Provençal terroir.
The indoor pool, equipped with a counter-current swim system and a swan-neck fountain, opens onto the vineyards and olive groves. Two jacuzzis, a sauna, a hammam, and a solarium complete this experience of total relaxation.
The exclusive “Château de Berne by Vinésime” treatment enhances the benefits of Grenache Noir grapes from the estate’s organic Plateau de Berne vineyards, providing a deep connection to the essence of the property.
Guests can also enjoy yoga classes among the vineyards, while the Japanese garden invites meditation in a setting conducive to calm and rejuvenation.
The essence of Château de Berne
The organic-certified vineyard is overseen by Alexis Cornu, oenologist and cellar master. The famous square bottle, a true icon of the estate, draws inspiration from the two 18th-century towers at the château’s entrance. A symbol of elegance and innovation, this bottle embodies the uniqueness of the estate’s wines, now recognized around the world.
Each cuvée reflects the authenticity and richness of the HautPays Provençal terroir. The wines, produced in three colors—rosé, red, and white—express the finesse of the limestone soils and the unique character of the Mediterranean climate.
Weddings & Seminars
Château de Berne offers an idyllic setting for hosting weddings, seminars and prestigious private events. Each bespoke event combines authentic luxury, personalized service and immersion in unspoiled nature. The venue’s versatile spaces can accommodate up to 120 guests, providing an atmosphere that is bothintimate and grand.
The estate’s teams orchestrate every detail—from refined culinary offerings to floral decorations—to create unforgettable moments in a spirit of sharing and conviviality.
