Few places in the world are as irresistible as Provence, especially the Luberon valley to the east of Avignon; Les Alpilles, which is south of the same city and includes Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence, two of my favorite French towns; and the lovely leafy city of Aix-en-Provence. The region has recently seen the opening of several new hotels that cater to travelers looking for accommodations of exceptional comfort and character.

Domaine de Manville

Les Baux-de-Provence, France

Just outside Les Baux-de-Provence, the 30-room and nine-villa Domaine de Manville was created from a group of 18th-century stone farm buildings on a 250-acre estate. The main farm building, the Bergerie (“sheep barn”), houses the reception and two restaurants. Most rooms are located in two newly constructed wings. Thanks to the talents of architect Mireille Pellen, who specializes in projects that gracefully join the old and the new, they blend into their surroundings perfectly. The main bar occupies a handsome new conservatory-style space and is a delightful place in which to linger over drinks before or after dinner.