In the heart of the Luberon Valley, far from the hurried pace of Paris city life, Domaine Les Martins offers something rare: a Provençal escape rooted in authenticity, understated elegance, and intentional calm. Just minutes from the famed village of Gordes, this former agricultural enclave has been carefully transformed into a luxury B&B that celebrates everything this region is known for—seasonal beauty, meaningful connection, and the calm of lavender-scented days.
Our arrival set the tone. A discreet stone entrance gave way to sun-washed courtyards and blooming lavender. There were no grand gestures—just a warm greeting, a chilled drink, and an immediate sense that we had stepped into a quieter rhythm. At Domaine Les Martins, the luxury lies in the details—and in the thoughtful absence of excess.
A Place of Balance and Beauty
The property’s architecture tells its own story. Once a 17th-century cluster of stone buildings, the estate has been sensitively restored by owners David Varon and Régis Péan —a couple who left behind fast-paced careers in fashion, design, and hospitality to pursue a different kind of life in Provence. Their vision and experience design expertise are evident in every choice, from the refined materials to the gentle preservation of the estate’s original character.
Interiors are calm and contemporary without feeling stark. Color palettes pull from the natural surroundings. Modern comforts are integrated with restraint.
Shared spaces flow organically: a central pool terrace warmed to 82°F year-round, a shaded courtyard framed by olive trees, and an outdoor fireplace that becomes a gathering spot after dinner. The gardens are quietly lush, organized into spaces for conversation, reading, meditation, or simply observing the Provençal light as the day unfolds.
Comfort with Character
Guest accommodations are divided between well-appointed rooms and private cottages, all designed with understated sophistication. Our suite was serene and uncluttered, with high-quality linens, a rainfall shower, and windows that opened to the scent of rosemary and the sound of birdsong. Every element—textiles, lighting, amenities—was chosen not for show, but for ease and comfort.
Suites feature lounge areas and curated touches like locally made soaps, bathrobes, and a healthy minibar. The private cottages with kitchens and terraces offer autonomy without sacrificing style and are perfect for longer stays. Across all categories, the emphasis remains the same: subtle luxury, air perfumed by botanicals, and a sense of personal space.
Life in Season
Mornings begin with breakfast on the fig tree terrace. House-made granola, fresh pastries, market eggs, ripe fruit, and local cheeses are served at a long communal table where conversation flows naturally. For those who prefer solitude, there are plenty of quiet corners for coffee and morning meditation.
Throughout the day, the estate adapts to its guests. Oversized hammocks invite afternoon rest. The outdoor firepit comes alive in the golden hours. As light fades over the stone walls, the peaceful rhythm of the property continues into the evening.
For those who seek it, the concierge team can arrange experiences to let you explore Provence. David and Régis are personally involved in every aspect of their guests' stay, drawing on their deep local knowledge and international sensibility. Their care is quiet but consistent, offering personalized suggestions that lead to authentic discoveries—whether it’s a tucked-away restaurant, an open-aired market, or the perfect scenic cycling route.
Between Hilltop Villages and Golden Light
Domaine Les Martins sits at the center of Provence’s “golden triangle”—an enviable position between the historic hill towns of Gordes, Ménerbes, and Roussillon. Each town is worth exploring: whether it’s a morning espresso in a cobbled square, a walk-through ochre cliff, or a market brimming with olives, truffles, and tapenades.
One of the most rewarding ways to take in the landscape is by bicycle. E-bikes and classic road bikes are available, and quiet country roads open up a world of scenic possibilities. Lavender fields stretch to the horizon, vineyards roll with the curve of the land, and time slows with each turn of the wheel.
For a more immersive experience, I highly recommend booking a guided cycling tour with Bike Session Luberon. Led by François, a thoughtful and passionate local guide, these rides offer a curated window into Provence’s most breathtaking and lesser-known routes. With François, the ride is never rushed—it’s about discovering the soul of the landscape.
The highlight of our ride was passing through the private estate of legendary filmmaker Sir Ridley Scott, where vineyards and cinematic touches converged in a landscape that felt both grand and grounded. Inside his estate, the imprint of a world-class director was unmistakable—each detail steeped in the creative legacy of one of cinema’s truest visionaries. That moment was the kind of travel memory that stays with you long after the ride ends.
Stopping often on the bicycle tour, we enjoyed the exquisite views at sun-drenched cafés. Meals in Provence carry a different weight: they’re built around what’s fresh, meant to be lingered over, and offered with pride. With a Nicoise salad and a view of the hills—everything unnecessary falls away.
From Domaine Les Martins, day trips are easy. The Abbaye de Sénanque is just minutes away, as are Michelin star restaurants, artisan markets, and cultural landmarks in Avignon, Arles, and Aix-en-Provence. Whether you explore actively or simply absorb the surroundings, the location places you in the center of it all—without ever feeling overwhelmed by tourism.
Thoughtful Hospitality, Seamlessly Delivered
What sets Domaine Les Martins apart is its quiet, intuitive approach to hospitality. David and Régis are ever-present, yet never intrusive. Their passion for this place is sincere, and their attention to detail—from the impeccably kept grounds to the warm, handwritten notes—creates a sense of genuine welcome.
Extras are available à la carte: on-site massages under the trees, yoga sessions at sunset, private dinners under string lights, and personalized itineraries. Whether you want to hike, shop, explore nearby villages, or savor a day with no agenda at all—here, every option is an invitation, never an obligation.
A Return to What Matters
In a region known for sensory beauty, Domaine Les Martins offers something more enduring: the ability to slow down and reconnect—whether with a partner, with nature, or with yourself. It’s not the most opulent place you’ll stay, nor the loudest. But it may be the most memorable.
Here, luxury isn’t about being seen—it’s about being understood. And that, in the end, is what makes this place truly special.
Article by Raquel Baldelomar
Raquel Baldelomar is an entrepreneur, author, and journalist. Her work explores how travel shapes creativity, balance, and human connection. Follow her at @raquel.b.la.
