FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD
Before this year gets on in earnest, have a restful pause at these two sanctuaries. You’re welcome.
Two properties that will make you want to get away from it all
Stay at a monastery
Okay, it’s a former Dominican monastery, but still, the Terra Dominicata, which is part of the Small Luxury Hotels group, retains that sense of peace one gets in old and religious structures. The 26-room boutique hotel immerses you in its “holy mountain” setting, which is emphasised by the minimalist furnishings in the spacious rooms and suites. A colour palette of earth tones in the rooms and original stone walls bear witness to its religious past. But its transformation as a boutique hotel is evident in the amenities, from the inviting pool and warm terracotta tiles and the inviting furnishings in the rooms. Given its remote location – well, remote for city folk used to the noise and chaos of an urban lifestyle, at least – there’s nothing to do but take in the gorgeous views of Montsant Natural Park, go hiking through rugged mountain paths, or visit the ruined monastery in the nearby town of Escaladei. Don’t worry, though, you won’t miss the outside world. Terra Dominicata is famous for its Montsant and Priorat wines, a tradition that goes back to its roots as a monastery and is continued by the hotel. In fact, the hotel’s wine cellar has the largest collection of these famous appelations in the world. Pare a bottle or three with a delicious dinner at Alma Mater, where you
can dine out in the stone terrace and feast on modern interpretations of traditional recipes while contemplating the views and forgetting the outside world.
Immerse in local culture
This gem of a property – with just 19 rooms – beside Plages des Catalans allows you to immerse yourself in Marseille life. A short walk from the old town, Les Bords de Mer’s rooms and suites all have stunning views of the Mediterranean, whether from huge bay windows or from your private balcony or terrace. It’s a beautiful little place, with its gleaming white exterior complementing the blue of the sea outside and the pastel hues, and pale wood of the interiors. What to do here? Spending the day poolside is always a good idea or go out and explore the area. The hotel offers cultural tours of the old town as well as excursions farther afield, like boat trips to Calanques National Park or wine tours of the Luberon. After all these exploring, be sure to book an afternoon at the elegant spa, which features a heated pool, Turkish hammam and treatments using REN organic skincare.