I discovered a cool little art gallery called Point Rouge with the most gregarious French owners, Olivier and Jean-Michel. Hidden upstairs are four guest rooms, each decorated by artists of the gallery, with funky names like “Love Nest” and “The Voice of Angels” making for a fun, unique sleepover. Breakfasts are served in the delightful courtyard. This is not just any Bed & Breakfast, but an artsy, fartsy, fun, affordable one. It can be found under Le Rigardeur Chambres d’hotes. Many renowned artists like Vincent Van Gogh have been inspired by Saint Remy and the surrounding landscapes of Alpilles.
One day I ventured off to Chateau La Coste, a unique fusion of wine, contemporary art, and architecture in Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade, that was showcasing an exhibition of Damien Hirst, “The Light That Shines.” This place is an open-air art gallery set amongst a 200-hectares vineyard where you hike around for hours discovering all sorts of unique installations and buildings on all parts of the grounds. They have a variety of restaurants including a one by famed Argentine chef, Francis Mallmann, a boutique hotel, plus of course a wine shop offering tastings. This is a two-thumbs up sightseeing suggestion while in the Provence region.
Provence promises and always delivers on a memorable getaway captivated by nature and simplicity. Every corner of this region delivers on authentic beauty waiting to be discovered from vineyards to lavender fields to olive groves speckled with art everywhere. For now, Saint Remy de Provence holds a special place in my heart as one of my favorites.