bastide des martelieres

We felt like family here and had a wonderful five days. Cedric was always around and seemed to know what we needed before we asked. The rooms were clean, cool, uncluttered, en-suite, and had plenty of storage. Outside, there are lovely gardens with herbs and flowers, comfortable loungers and dining spots, a small pool for swimming or relaxing, and a Pétanque court. Breakfast was a treat, with bread, pastries, and homemade conserves. Cedric can cook eggs from their own hens, or guests can make ham and eggs provided. The kitchen stays open during the day with coffee, tea, and nibbles, and Sandrine can prepare a fantastic evening meal if you ask before arriving. This is the best chambre d’hotes I've stayed in, a real home from home. Cedric is an amazing host and Sandrine an outstanding chef.

The lavender in the large garden was lovely to catch while we relaxed after our 2-hour-10-minute flight from Edinburgh to Marseilles. It was sunny, with just a light breeze. Once it got above 30C, the 10m x 4m pool was essential. There is also a Pétanque court, though it was too hot for that. This quiet, secure place has plenty of parking and worked well as a base for touring, with Wi-Fi that worked a treat. It's 2.5k from the center of stylish Salon-de-Provence, with quality shops, bars, and restaurants, some around the castle. The tastefully converted 18th-century farmhouse has four rooms, including one with disabled facilities. There's a spacious restaurant area beside a study, and the kitchen has everything needed for meals. Dinner can be made on request, and Sandrime is a wonderful cook who can serve meals outside. We loved it.

The hosts made us feel very welcome and were especially attentive to our 5-year-old daughter as well as to us. Breakfast had lots of different choices. We had a fabulous few days at La Bastide, with a spacious, spotless, beautifully decorated room and lovely grounds and pool. We highly recommend staying here and will certainly come back.

We'd happily return to this peaceful country house. The garden and outdoor areas are great places to unwind, and the setting is calm and green. It feels authentic but still has modern comforts. We got a thoughtful welcome, and everything was impeccably clean. A lovely place that we recommend without hesitation.