SAINT-RÉMY-DE-PROVENCE I ALPILLES
L’ile des amours,
une ile flottante à la
façon du chef, fraises,
framboises.
The island of love,
a floating island
in the style of the
chef, strawberries,
raspberries.
W
e continue on our discovery of Provence with
one of the most incredible and authentic places
yet of our trip.
The Château de Roussan has a unique energy. Its
history traces back to royal times and even to the time
of Nostradamus because the property’s oldest house
belonged to his family.
For several years, this magical place has been open to the
public as a prestigious hotel. It’s as if the château itself
chose this. The château gardens are stunning; strolling
along its gorgeous pathways is an invigorating experience.
The château was renovated 3 years ago to add to this
unique backdrop. Since the arrival of Sophie, the General
Manager, the place has been transformed and modernised,
but this hasn’t affected the authentic feel of the place.
Together with her team, consisting of Sabine, head of
reception, and Christine and Rafael, who are the eyes
and ears of the place, Sophie has been channeling all
her energy into the château. Every bedroom on the
second floor has been redecorated and equipped in a
contemporary style.
In addition to the natural pool which graces the garden,
you’ll find, in a secluded spot, a recently-installed hot
tub. The tub, with its hydro-massaging jets, and heated
to 38 degrees by a wood burner, is truly a place where
you can escape.
The distinguished hair stylist, Anthony Mauron, whose
career was largely with the most elite Parisian haute
couture fashion houses, has moved to the château. His
clients flock to him from throughout the region.
Roussan is in a full phase of renewal, you can just feel it.
Another compelling element is chef Ricardo Lourenço,
who has just taken charge of the kitchen. His career
is impressive. He’s worked at 9 Michelin starred
restaurants, including the Georges V restaurant, ***,
The Pavillon Ledoyen ***, the legendary Tour d’Argent
and even the Palace Hotel Mandarin Oriental in Paris.
After a stint in Portugal, chef Lourenço decided to return
to the area where his heart truly lies; Roussan was a very
considered choice.
He’s come to make the château a place of French
gastronomic excellence. His food is simple, direct,
elegant, and infused with passion.
The Château de Roussan is all poetry, serenity and
contemplation; its overwhelming desire is to preserve its
own origins.