Hôtel Etape

This imposing Provençal farmstead is steeped in the unmistakable balmy scent of the South of France: think thyme, savory, lavender… A family business for generations, chef Jany Gleize and his daughter Jane embody a vision of Provençal cuisine that is tasty and indulgent, by way of several set menus. Stay over in one of the spacious guestrooms decorated with period furnishings.

Settle at your table in this bright, modern interior and experience the talent of Thierry Chouin. This Breton chef may have a particular penchant for fish - based fare, but that doesn't mean he snubs lamb and potatoes. He fetes the ingredients with nicely turned - out dishes, each a lovely homage to tradition.

Raised in Marseille, Xavier Mathieu is a true-blue Provençal lad. He was introduced to the world of haute cuisine by master chef, Roger Vergé, a family friend. He went on to complete his apprenticeship with Joël Robuchon in Paris, before returning to the splendid family home nestling in the Luberon scrubland. The chef, who sports a distinctive shock of white hair, breathes new life into Provençal culinary traditions, giving each dish a new twist on its original form. Tian of black olives from the garden, leg of lamb from the Alpilles cooked in warm sand of the garrigue, two-course pieds et paq

Christophe Bacquié greets diners like old friends in his gorgeous farmhouse set in peaceful countryside, surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and lavender fields. With his wife Alexandra and a closeknit, committed team, all of whom share his passion for Southern France and its produce and wines, Bacquié unfolds a single set menu with a strong Mediterranean identity. With flavour as his watchword, he crafts the finest ingredients simply and transparently and we were delighted to see some of his signature dishes, such as his modern aioli and his vision of iced Calisson, in pride of place on the

Venture into the business park and make your way to this handsome contemporary establishment – you won’t regret it! In a spacious, comfortable conservatory-cum-dining room, chef Pierre Grein curates a modern score of Provençal leaning, steeped in delicacy and high-flying technique: gnocchis with girolles, cream of mushroom soup; local squab roasted whole with fluffy dauphinoise potatoes; a trompe l’œil strawberry and pistachio tart… The sauces and jus deserve a special mention, as does the slick, friendly service.

Delicate and decidedly creative cuisine based on good regional ingredients: this restaurant surrounded by vines and cherry trees is a real find. Try the surprise menu, inspired by the offerings of the markets and small-scale local producers. The chef-patron takes care of everything himself, both in the dining room and the kitchen. Special mention for the peaceful terrace, where you can hear the cicadas' call.

This iconic Luberon restaurant is run by a talented team headed up by chef Noël Bérard. His modernised take on Provençal cuisine finds joyful expression in two tasting menus, one of which focuses on plants. High-quality ingredients (including veal from Gordes, trout from the River Sorgue, oysters from the Camargue, pork from Monteux etc), bold sauces and jus and a delicate style. There is a magnificent terrace from which you can admire the sunset. Also of note in this enchanting setting in the heart of Provence is the wood-fired cooking at La Bergerie, and of course the comfortable guestrooms