Relais & Châteaux is an exclusive collection of 500 of the finest charming hotels and gourmet restaurants in 60 countries. From the vineyards in Napa valley to the beaches in Bali, from the olive trees in Provence to the lodges in South Africa, Relais & Châteaux offers all the stops on the finest route for discovering each special place and country.
In all our properties, each maître de maison draws upon his unique experience and passion to share the authentic culture and tastes of his region with every guest.
Magical places and memories of a lifetime: whether it be a romantic weekend or to celebrate the important moments of life such as birthdays, anniversaries, honeymoon or family reunions.
Established in France more than 50 years ago, Relais & Châteaux has become a renowned reference of excellence in the hotel and restaurant world. The Association's mission is to spread its unique art de vivre across the globe by selecting outstanding properties with a truly unique character.
What would you say to an introduction to gourmet cookery? This is what’s on offer at the Abbaye de Sainte Croix, in the stunning environment of the 12th Century former Romanesque monastery in the heart of the Provence hills. Seen from the panoramic viewpoint on which the hotel is situated, the scenery is absolutely spectacular, and the attention given to every dish is equally astonishing. Jovial and enthusiastic, , Pascal Morel loves sharing his knowledge with feverish clients keen to get the best out of his exceptional advice.
The lessons are for 6 to 12 pupils and are given over half-day periods. Three hours in the kitchen, preparing a dish based on themes chosen in advance, such as fish, game, truffles or foie gras (the latter is given pride of place in November and December. The dish is then tasted, followed by a dessert, and the wines of Provence are introduced by Jean-Pierre Cargnino, Sainte Croix’ restaurant manager.
And why not prolong the pleasure by choosing the short-stay option? Here, the aim is to combine the cookery lesson with a wine tasting in the cellars and a nice, steady outing on a mountain bike! The tasting is accompanied by charcuterie and goat’s cheeses to reinforce the festive aspect of the outing.
The two options are available on the calendar from November to April, but may also be organised on request in the autumn and spring. The price per person is 125 € per half-day and 305 to 450 € for the weekend, in a double room.
Abbaye de Sainte Croix Hotel and restaurant in the country Perched on the rocky outcrops of Salon-de-Provence, a tiny Provence town, which is ideally located to explore everything this delightful area has to offer, there is a tranquil spot where time would appear to have stood still. This 12th century abbey in the heart of twenty hectares of Provençal gardens and garrigue offers spectacular views of the Alpilles Valley and the countryside surrounding Salon-de-Provence. The rooms still bear traces of the Cistercian monks who once occupied the abbey and boast a décor that blends charm and authenticity and provides a calm and restful atmosphere. You will be delighted with the hotel's attentive service and the culinary delights served in both restaurants which offer delicious dishes based on seasonal local ingredients. This hotel is utterly unique with architecture full of character and steeped in soul, the perfect haven of peace in which to relax and explore all the charms that Provence, from the Calanques to the Luberon, has to offer. ...Read more France, Salon-de-Provence
France, Salon-de-Provence 
