Abbaye De Sainte Croix Salon De Provence
Located in the heart of the charming town of Salon De Provence in the south of France, Abbaye De Sainte Croix is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique experience of history, culture and natural beauty. A former Benedictine abbey dating back to the 12th century, the Abbaye De Sainte Croix was transformed into a luxurious hotel and spa in the 20th century, while preserving its original character and architecture.
The History and Architecture of Abbaye De Sainte Croix
The history of Abbaye De Sainte Croix dates back to the 12th century, when it was founded by the Benedictine monks on a hill overlooking the town of Salon De Provence. The abbey was built in the Romanesque style with a simple yet elegant design, featuring an imposing bell tower, a cloister, a chapel and a chapter house. Over the centuries, the abbey underwent many changes and additions, including the construction of a Gothic portal and a Renaissance-style facade.
Today, Abbaye De Sainte Croix is a stunning example of the fusion of different architectural styles and periods, with its ancient walls, stone pillars, vaulted ceilings, and ornate details blending seamlessly with modern amenities and contemporary decor. The hotel has 25 luxurious rooms and suites, all tastefully decorated with antique furniture, plush fabrics, and modern amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs.
The Natural Beauty and Tranquility of Abbaye De Sainte Croix
Abbaye De Sainte Croix is not only a place of historical and architectural significance, but also a refuge of natural beauty and tranquility. Surrounded by lush gardens, olive groves, and vineyards, the abbey offers breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding countryside, making it an ideal place for relaxation, contemplation, and inspiration.
The gardens of Abbaye De Sainte Croix are a masterpiece of landscape design, featuring a variety of fragrant flowers, exotic plants, and shady trees, as well as fountains, statues, and terraces. The gardens are open to the public and are a popular destination for picnics, walks, and meditation.
The Spa and Wellness Center of Abbaye De Sainte Croix
Abbaye De Sainte Croix is not just a hotel or a garden, but also a world-class spa and wellness center that offers a wide range of treatments and therapies for body and mind. The spa is located in the old cellars of the abbey, which have been transformed into a modern and sophisticated space, featuring a sauna, a steam room, a Jacuzzi, a swimming pool, and a fitness center.
The spa offers a variety of treatments, including massage, body wraps, facials, and aromatherapy, using natural and organic products that are locally sourced and environmentally friendly. The spa also offers yoga and meditation classes, as well as personalized wellness programs that are tailored to the needs and preferences of each guest.
The Cuisine and Wines of Abbaye De Sainte Croix
Abbaye De Sainte Croix is not only a place of beauty and relaxation but also a destination for foodies and wine lovers. The hotel's restaurant, Le Petit Saint Louis, is a Michelin-starred establishment that offers a gourmet dining experience in a romantic and elegant setting.
The cuisine of Le Petit Saint Louis is inspired by the flavors and traditions of Provence, using only the freshest and finest local ingredients, such as olive oil, herbs, vegetables, and seafood. The menu changes seasonally, reflecting the bounty of each season, and is accompanied by a superb wine list that features the best wines of Provence and beyond.
The Cultural and Touristic Attractions of Salon De Provence
Salon De Provence is a charming and historic town that offers many cultural and touristic attractions for visitors, including museums, art galleries, theaters, and festivals. Some of the highlights of Salon De Provence include the Chateau de l'Emperi, a medieval castle that houses a museum of Provencal history and art, the Musee Grévin de Provence, a wax museum that showcases the personalities and legends of the region, and the weekly market, where visitors can taste and buy the local produce and crafts.
Conclusion
Abbaye De Sainte Croix Salon De Provence is a destination that offers something for everyone, whether you're looking for history, culture, nature, relaxation, wellness, cuisine, or wine. The abbey's combination of old-world charm and modern luxury, its stunning architecture and gardens, its spa and wellness center, its gourmet restaurant, and its proximity to the cultural and touristic attractions of Salon De Provence make it an ideal place for a romantic getaway, a family vacation or a solo retreat.
