芬洛什城堡酒店

In the heart of the village, a spacious terrace shaded by a plane tree welcomes diners in fine weather. The interior boasts a confident neo-retro aesthetic, featuring zellige tiles, classic bistro tables, moleskin bench seating and antique trinkets. The brainchild of Mathieu Desmarest (Pollen, Avignon) and his partner, it proposes a short, seasonal and locally sourced menu, expertly delivered by the chef. Green pea gazpacho verde, brousse cheese and pickles; tuna steak, virgin olive oil, fennel and smoked paprika-infused yoghurt.

En route to the French Riviera, Paris's upper crust, including movie stars from Mistinguett to Jean Gabin and Fernandel, used to stop off in this village so beloved of wine buffs. The restaurant, still named after its 1922 founder, Germaine Vion, features huge murals evoking Belle Époque Paris, in the style of Toulouse-Lautrec, and a delightful terrace commanding a panoramic view. The Mediterranean-inspired cuisine elevates the ingredients and vegetables of Provence. The splendid wine list includes a good selection of Châteauneuf-du-Pape labels.

Near Avignon, this remote Provençal farmhouse set between cliffs and vineyards does not compromise on authenticity. The scents of the garrigue fill the tastefully renovated interior, which sports a harmonious blend of period details and modern fittings. In the kitchen, Maxime is assisted by his father, Serge Chenet, Meilleur Ouvrier de France. The pair share a love of all things natural and the seasonal ingredients bursting with the flavours of this sun-drenched region. These Bretons, who haven't turned their backs on the staples of butter and cream, work together to concoct a tasty Provençal-