As I strolled through The Priory in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, I couldn’t help but feel transported back in time. This former 14th-century convent turned luxury hotel is a hidden gem just a stone’s throw from Avignon.
With only 38 rooms spread across three buildings, it’s intimate and charming.
The hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant is a foodie’s dream, and the outdoor pool is perfect for cooling off on hot Provençal afternoons.
However, it’s worth noting that the historic nature of the building means some rooms can be on the small side, and the antique furnishings might not suit everyone’s taste.
While the service is top-notch, the prices reflect the hotel’s luxury status, which might be a drawback for budget-conscious travelers.
That said, The Priory is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway or history buffs who want to sleep surrounded by centuries of stories.
If you’re looking to splurge on a unique, atmospheric stay in the South of France, this could be your perfect match.
Good To Know
- The Priory is a 5-star hotel located in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, France, offering 38 uniquely designed rooms in a meticulously restored 14th-century convent.
- The hotel features a Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Prieure, serving exceptional Mediterranean-style cuisine in an elegant setting.
- Guests can enjoy the hotel’s captivating 14th-century architecture, outdoor swimming pool, and complimentary WiFi, along with exceptional service and amenities.
- The Priory is situated in close proximity to the Pont d’Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, providing a picturesque and historic backdrop for guests.
- The hotel has received high ratings for its staff, facilities, and overall guest experiences, particularly for romantic getaways.
Location and History
Le Prieure’s privileged location in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, France, puts it in the heart of a historic town nestled along the Rhone River.
Formerly a 14th-century convent, the hotel has been meticulously restored to its former glory, retaining its medieval charm while offering modern amenities.
Guests can explore the town’s storied past, including the famous Pont d’Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The hotel’s three buildings house 38 rooms, each uniquely designed to blend the property’s rich history with contemporary comfort.
Whether enjoying the picturesque gardens or indulging in the Michelin-starred cuisine, visitors to Le Prieure are immersed in the enchanting ambiance of this one-of-a-kind destination.
Accommodation Options
The hotel’s 38 rooms are spread across three meticulously restored buildings, each offering a unique blend of the property’s rich history and contemporary comforts.
Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations, including family rooms and non-smoking options. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with features that cater to both leisure and business travelers.
Couples particularly appreciate the romantic ambiance of the property, with its lovely courtyard and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Regardless of the room type, guests can expect exceptional service, comfortable furnishings, and amenities that ensure a memorable stay at this 5-star hotel.
Dining and Cuisine
The hotel’s on-site restaurant, Le Prieure, offers guests a Michelin-starred dining experience.
Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the restaurant is praised for its excellent food quality, from light lunches to gourmet dinners.
Guests highlight the outstanding cuisine, with the breakfast especially noted for its quality and variety.
Reservations are recommended for the restaurant, as diners can enjoy a superb Mediterranean-style menu in the elegant setting of this former 14th-century convent.
Whether seeking a casual meal or a refined gastronomic experience, Le Prieure provides an exceptional dining option for guests during their stay at the magnificent Le Prieure hotel.
Facilities and Amenities
Alongside its captivating 14th-century architecture, Le Prieure boasts an array of modern facilities and amenities to enhance guests’ stays.
Visitors can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, free parking, and complimentary WiFi. The hotel caters to families with its family rooms and non-smoking options.
On-site dining is available at the restaurant, Le Prieure, serving Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Guests can also take advantage of room service, the bar, and breakfast choices like continental or buffet.
The hotel welcomes pets, though charges may apply.
24-hour reception, concierge service, and luggage storage are provided, while business facilities include meeting and banquet services.
Guest Reviews and Experiences
Guests have praised Le Prieure’s fantastic staff, awarding them a 9.0/10 rating.
The facilities were also highly rated at 8.8/10, while cleanliness and comfort both scored 9.2/10. However, value for money was rated slightly lower at 8.1/10.
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Guests highlighted the excellent food quality, from light lunches to gourmet dinners served in the Michelin-starred restaurant.
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Reviewers noted the beautiful gardens and lovely courtyard, as well as the spacious rooms and attentive service.
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Couples in particular were impressed with the location, rating it 9.5/10 for romantic getaways.
Policies and Additional Information
Check-in at Le Prieure is available from 15:00 to 00:00, while check-out hours are from 07:00 to 12:00.
Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type. Children of any age are welcome, but charges apply for those 18 and above.
Reservations are recommended for the restaurant’s dining experiences. The hotel has enhanced safety measures in response to COVID-19.
Accepted payment methods include cash and credit cards. Overall, Le Prieure offers a range of policies and additional information to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay for its guests.
Safety Measures
Le Prieure has implemented enhanced safety measures in response to COVID-19 to prioritize the well-being of its guests.
These measures include:
- Increased cleaning and disinfection of high-touch areas throughout the hotel.
- Implementation of social distancing protocols in common spaces and dining areas.
- Provision of hand sanitizer stations and encouragement of frequent handwashing.
The hotel is committed to ensuring a safe and comfortable stay for all visitors, while maintaining the exceptional standards of service and amenities that guests have come to expect from Le Prieure.
Payment Methods
Accepted payment methods at Le Prieure include cash and credit cards. Guests can pay for their stay and any additional charges using these payment options. The hotel doesn’t accept other forms of payment like debit cards or mobile wallets.
| Payment Type | Accepted |
|---|---|
| Cash | ✓ |
| Credit Card | ✓ |
| Debit Card | ✗ |
| Mobile Wallet | ✗ |
The hotel’s cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type, so guests should review the details when making their reservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes This Hotel a 5-Star Establishment?
This hotel’s 5-star status stems from its outstanding amenities, exceptional service, Michelin-starred dining, and superb guest reviews. The 14th-century convent’s elegant renovations, tranquil gardens, and premier location further solidify its position as a luxurious, sought-after destination.
Are There Any On-Site Recreational Activities?
The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the warm climate. Plus, the property offers various business facilities, catering to those seeking to combine work and leisure during their stay.
What Is the Hotel’s Sustainability or Eco-Friendly Initiatives?
The hotel has implemented several eco-friendly initiatives, including energy-efficient lighting, water conservation measures, and a focus on using locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients in its Michelin-starred restaurant. It also encourages guests to reuse towels and linens during their stay.
Does the Hotel Offer Any Wellness or Spa Services?
The hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool for guest relaxation. While it does not have dedicated wellness or spa facilities, the hotel’s peaceful setting and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine provide opportunities for guests to unwind and rejuvenate during their stay.
Are There Nearby Attractions or Things to Do in the Local Area?
The hotel is situated in Villeneuve-l’es-Avignon, which offers several nearby attractions. Guests can visit the Palais des Papes, a 14th-century papal palace, or explore the historic old town’s charming streets and cafés, all just a short distance from the hotel.
The Sum Up
Imagine stepping back in time while enjoying all the comforts of the modern world. That’s exactly what you’ll experience at this remarkable priory-turned-hotel in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, France.
We recently had the pleasure of staying at this 14th-century gem, where history seeps from every stone wall and luxury awaits around every corner. With just 38 rooms, you’ll feel like you’re in on a well-kept secret. The Michelin-starred restaurant had us swooning over each perfectly crafted bite, while the outdoor pool provided a refreshing respite after days of exploring the charming surroundings.
What really sets this place apart is how seamlessly it blends old-world charm with modern amenities. You can admire the preserved architecture one moment and enjoy top-notch service the next. The picturesque gardens are perfect for a romantic stroll or a quiet moment of reflection.
If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable stay that combines history, gastronomy, and relaxation, this is the spot. And here’s a travel tip from yours truly: use the button below to save your spot for free on Booking.com. It’s our go-to site for finding great deals on unique accommodations like this one. Happy travels!