Combining an 18th-century aesthetic with contemporary style, Hôtel Le Pigonnet is an elegant Provençal-style residence on the southern edge of Aix-en-Provence. It nestles in a stunning garden filled with chestnut trees and features a gourmet restaurant that dishes up regional cuisine. A diverse selection of rooms accommodate business travellers, couples and families in comfort, with a swimming pool and hammam among the leisure facilities.
Situated on the southern edge of the Centre Ville, Hôtel Le Pigonnet is a 15-minute walk from the Gare d’Aix en Provence. It’s a stone’s throw from the picturesque Parc Jourdan, which can be explored en route to the tree-lined streets, boutiques and restaurants of Cours Mirabeau.
Follow the walking trail that links Paul Cezanne’s childhood home to his studio, Atelier Cézanne, or venture into the rugged landscapes of Sainte-Baume Natural Regional Park. Marseille is a 35-minute drive away while the turquoise coves of Parc National des Calanques are just slightly further south.
Situated in the stunning gardens, the Table du Pigonnet restaurant serves as the social heart of the hotel. Begin the day with a delicious breakfast on the alfresco patio shaded by century-old chestnut trees. Chef Thierry Balligand is the creative mind behind the gourmet menu that draws on seasonal produce from the surrounding countryside.
For a more intimate ambiance, head to The Bar 1924, which fuses a cigar and cognac cellar with a live-music bar. Jazz, bossanova and blues bands perform here throughout the week, accompanied by unique cocktails crafted by expert barmen.
Despite its contemporary interiors and modern comforts, Hôtel Le Pigonnet has retained the authentic charms that first lured guests here in the 1920s. Richly coloured tapestries decorate the otherwise neutral rooms and suites, creating a home away from home with a few luxurious touches. The open-air dining terrace connects the historic residence to the lovingly-tended gardens to create a romantic ambiance by both day and night.
Each of the sophisticated rooms come with flatscreen TVs, en-suite bathrooms and complimentary Wi-Fi, not to mention gorgeous views of the garden and/or Saint Victoire Mountain. The compact Bastide Room is ideal for business trips while the Classic and Superior rooms offer a little more space for couples. Both the Junior and Presidential suites boast private terraces and additional seating areas, including convertible sofas.
Those travelling with kids can settle into the Family Suite, which is situated away from the main building. It can accommodate four adults and two children, with a second bathroom to avoid morning congestion. Alternatively, families can opt for the Garden Apartment to enjoy direct pool access and there are babysitting and child-minding services available on request.
While Hôtel Le Pigonnet doesn’t offer accessible facilities, there are a number of rooms that are entirely located on the ground floor.
Aside from its outdoor swimming pool, Hôtel Le Pigonnet also features a well-equipped fitness room so you never have to miss a workout. The indulgent spa offers an extensive massage menu for guests to select from, as well as housing a sauna and hammam.
The 24-hour reception desk is the go-to place for accessing the hotel’s business amenities, luggage storage, laundry and ironing services, as well as rental bicycles for exploring the surrounding area. Free public parking is available on site, together with an electric vehicle charging station.
