Le petit nid douillet

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.

Set in deepest Provence, Mane is both picturesque and steeped in history, which is also true of the 17C Couvent des Minimes, whose admirable restoration has retained its period charm. This provençal Arcadia is home to a luxury hotel, with swimming pool, spa and a fine dining restaurant, named after Louis Feuillée, Louis XIV's botanist, who was born in the village. The kitchens are masterfully run by Louis Gachet, MOF 2023, who seamlessly navigates between his native Burgundy and Provence. Bold dishes and exquisite sauces exemplify the creative consummate culinary talent of this virtuoso chef.

This chef, originally from Vietnam, meticulously prepares inventive and instinctive cuisine that is constantly evolving. The single multi-course set menu allies local produce and exotic touches in dishes that are colourful and fragrant. With its exposed beams and hardwood floors, the traditional interior opens onto a veranda that leads onto a pleasant terrace overlooking an imposing metal statue of a rearing horse.

You can't miss this 18C coaching inn with its blue cart on the roof, in a nod to René Barjavel's eponymous book in which he recounts his childhood in this part of the world. The spirit of the region is everywhere, from the terrace shaded by a reed canopy to the generous regional cuisine, examples of which are a terrine of marbled ham, warm potato salad with a spicy ravigote sauce and a decadent île flottante (egg whites in custard) in a culinary lineup as patriotic as the Marseillaise!

This restaurant, a former mill, stands at the foot of the village’s iconic pointed rock formation. It serves fish and seafood specialities (bouillabaisse to order). The interior sports a modern vibe, offset by an old mill wheel that adds a characterful note to the décor.

After a career at Christian Têtedoie’s restaurant (Lyon), Fei - Hsin and Jérôme Lamy decided to take over this place. He still works as a sommelier, offering appetising food and wine pairings that showcase his wife’s lovely cooking, which is inspired by her Taiwanese origins. A wonderful marriage of French and Asian.

In addition to his fine dining restaurant, chef Louis Gachet lovingly oversees this upscale bistro. The space is soothing and relaxing, plus there is a dining room-cum-terrace, whose picture windows are opened fully in fine weather. The menu is a skilful blend of traditional favourites and contemporary dishes with a smattering of Provençal touches.