A New Chapter in Provence: The Reopening of Mas de Guilles in Lourmarin

Tucked into the rolling hills of the Luberon Valley, the newly restored Mas de Guilles invites discerning travellers to indulge in a luxurious retreat. Surrounded by the breathtaking Provençal countryside, this boutique hotel reopened its doors in Lourmarin this spring, unveiling a seamless blend of historic allure and contemporary four-star sophistication.

“A hidden gem, where people come to discover Provence in a different way, and where they return for the atmosphere, the experience and the soul of the place.” ~Mas de Guilles

Photo credit ©Mas de Guilles

Reimagined Historic Estate

Embraced by nature, Mas de Guilles rises with a rugged stone façade, ochre walls sun-faded by time. This 17th-century Provençal bastide keeps its soul in original details: timeworn masonry, graceful vaults, and gardens in harmonious symmetry.

Photo credit ©Mas de Guilles

Step inside for thoughtful surprises; the recent improvements interlace heritage with modern flair. Natural textures, gentle hues, and understated elegance fill light-drenched interiors. The redesign honours the estate’s timeless grace—grounded in simplicity, openness, and luminous Provençal light.

Photo credit ©Mas de Guilles

Here, privacy and tranquillity take center stage, crafting an ambiance more akin to a secluded retreat than a traditional hotel. Soft modern tones and inviting furnishings highlight the effortless charm of Provençal living. Each of the 27 guest rooms is uniquely designed, blending rustic character with contemporary comforts and offering picturesque views across the estate. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including two fully accessible options.

Photo credit ©Mas de Guilles

A New Guest Experience

Every guest is at the heart of the Mas de Guilles experience. The dedicated hospitality team crafts personalized service, tailored itineraries, and insider recommendations for each visitor. Guests receive attentive support and local expertise. With meticulous attention to detail, they ensure every stay is a luxurious Provençal journey. Authentic local touches, such as welcome amenities and thoughtful gestures, enrich the experience.

At the heart of the revival is restaurant Les Terrasses de Guilles. Chef Patrick Cuissard and his team feature Provençal flavours. His background includes work at 5-star resorts and for private clients.
Seasonal menus at Terrasses de Guilles reflect local traditions. To honour the region’s terroir, they showcase ingredients such as Mediterranean seafood, seasonal vegetables, and cheeses—all locally sourced and highlighted by Chef Cuissard’s signature style.

Photo credit ©Mas de Guilles

Guests can savour meals indoors beneath soaring vaulted ceilings or dine on a shaded terrace overlooking Provençal scenery. Choose the prix-fixe menu or explore à la carte options—each is memorable. This refined dining experience highlights the estate’s values: simplicity, generosity, and connection to the land.

Photo credit ©Mas de Guilles

Begin or conclude your evening at the Mas de Guilles wine bar, where Luberon wines, signature cocktails, and delectable tapas-style bites crafted from fresh local ingredients await.

Provence at Your Own Pace

Mas de Guilles is both a destination and a perfect springboard for exploring the Luberon Valley and beyond. Just minutes from the heart of Lourmarin, the estate remains secluded and offers guests a true immersion in nature. The three-hectare grounds feature manicured Mediterranean gardens, groves of olive, cypress, and plane trees, all nestled within untouched natural beauty.

Photo credit ©Mas de Guilles

The shimmering pool is a refreshing haven from the summer sun; here, guests can unwind on poolside loungers beside sparkling aqua waters. For deeper relaxation, the wellness center features a steam bath, sauna, and massage room. Personalized therapy sessions are available upon request.

Photo credit ©Mas de Guilles

For those seeking active leisure, an on-site clay tennis court is available for guest enjoyment. As the afternoon wanes, guests can gather on the pétanque pitch, tossing boules and savouring chilled rosé or pastis, embracing not only the convivial spirit but also the authentic local pleasures that are part of every stay.

Photo credit ©Mas de Guilles

Curious explorers will discover hilltop villages, bustling markets, and local vineyards. The Mas de Guilles team curates itineraries centred on art, history, or gastronomy. They give guests in-depth local knowledge and tailored experiences, revealing a Provence beyond typical tourist sites.

Lourmarin, a Beautiful Village

Travellers journey along a picturesque southern route, winding through the Luberon hills, to arrive in Lourmarin. The village is encircled by vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills—a gem ready to be uncovered. It quickly becomes clear why Lourmarin belongs to Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, celebrated for its genuine charm and irresistible allure.

Photo credit ©Perfectly Provence

Narrow lanes wind through the heart of Lourmarin, passing boutiques, artist studios, and Café Gaby—a favourite of locals and travellers. On Fridays, a vibrant market enlivens the village with fresh produce, gourmet fare, handcrafted goods, and colourful linens.

Photo credit ©Perfectly Provence

Outside the village stands Château de Lourmarin, first a 12th-century fortress. Later owners added a 16th-century Renaissance wing. Since 1973, it has been recognized as a French Historic Monument.

Rebirth of a Provençal Retreat

The return of Mas de Guilles comes at the perfect moment, as travellers increasingly seek boutique stays that feel intimate and genuine. Restored heritage estates are in demand, offering a harmonious blend of history and comfort. This reopening breathes new life into a storied property, allowing it to evolve while remaining anchored in its origins.

Photo credit ©Mas de Guilles

As Provence welcomes another vibrant season, the Mas de Guilles team eagerly anticipates hosting guests. Reviving the estate doesn’t mean changing everything—but rather honouring the past while balancing history with renewal, tradition with new beginnings.

Generations of artists, writers, and travellers seeking authenticity have found inspiration in Lourmarin’s timeless allure. In a place where beauty comes naturally, Mas de Guilles offers something lasting—a place to pause, breathe, and rediscover the art of living well.

Photo credit ©Mas de Guilles

Practical Information

Mas de Guilles Hôtel & Restaurant 4 *
107 Route de Vaugines
84160 Lourmarin
Website: https://masdeguilles.com/
Telephone: +33 (0)4 90 68 30 55
Email: hotel@masdeguilles.com

Les Terrasses de Guilles
In high season, the restaurant is open for lunch and dinner for hotel guests and external diners. During the off-season, a reduced menu is available exclusively to hotel guests.
Lunch: 12h to 13h30
Dinner: 19h à 21h30
Reservations are recommended.

Photo credits as indicated.

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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott

With her camera and laptop close at hand, Carolyne has traded in her business suits for the world of freelance writing and blogging. Her first airplane ride at six months of age was her introduction to the exciting world of travel.

While in Provence, Carolyne can be found hiking with friends, riding the hills around the Alpilles or tackling Mont Ventoux. Her attachment to the region resonates in Perfectly Provence this digital magazine that she launched in 2014. This website is an opportunity to explore the best of the Mediterranean lifestyle (food & wine, places to stay, expat stories, books on the region, travel tips, real estate tips and more), through our contributors' articles.

Carolyne writes a food and travel blog Ginger and Nutmeg. Carolyne’s freelance articles can be found in Global Living Magazine, Avenue Magazine and City Palate (Published Travel Articles).