Crillon le Brave
One Michelin Key
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Expert Review: Crillon le Brave
Crillon le Brave: A Michelin One-Key Gem in the Heart of Provence
Nestled in the picturesque hilltop village of Crillon le Brave, Hôtel Crillon le Brave, a Michelin One-Key property, consistently garners enthusiastic praise from guests, offering an enchanting blend of luxury and authentic Provençal charm. Spread across a cluster of meticulously restored 17th-century houses, the hotel provides a "village within a village" experience with breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and the surrounding vineyards and olive groves.
1. Overall Rating & Sentiment
The overall sentiment for Crillon le Brave is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing their stays as "superb" and "nothing short of perfect." Reviewers consistently highlight the exceptional quality across all aspects of the hotel, from its stunning location and elegant design to its outstanding service and delicious cuisine.
2. Key Highlights
Guests consistently rave about several key aspects of Crillon le Brave:
- Location & Views: The hotel's hilltop position provides "breathtaking views" of Mont Ventoux and the sprawling Provençal landscape, creating an idyllic and serene ambiance.
- Service & Staff: The staff are frequently described as "incredibly professional," "going above and beyond," and embodying "genuine hospitality and attention to detail." Many guests note that the staff "truly made our stay special."
- Design & Ambiance: The hotel effortlessly combines luxury with character, featuring beautifully decorated country-style rooms and a design that evokes a "Provençal class" akin to being in a storybook. The atmosphere is consistently noted as "relaxed chic," quiet, and cool.
- Amenities: The outdoor heated pool with panoramic views is a crown jewel, perfect for relaxation. A rustic spa, Spa des Écuries, offers a range of treatments in renovated stables. The hotel also offers electric bikes for exploring the area.
3. Room Quality
The rooms and suites at Crillon le Brave are praised for their comfort, space, and elegant design. They feature quintessential Provençal elements like wooden beams, terracotta floors, and antique furniture, blended with modern luxuries. Beds are often highlighted as "supremely comfortable" with fine linens. Many rooms boast "amazing views" of the surrounding hills or Mount Ventoux, and come with individual touches such as double baths, window seats, terraces, or balconies. Modern amenities like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and in-room bars with locally-sourced treats are standard.
4. Dining Experience
The dining experience at Crillon le Brave is a significant highlight. The food is frequently described as "spectacular" and a "culinary delight," prepared with the finest local and seasonal ingredients. The hotel offers two restaurants:
- La Table du Ventoux: A bistronomic restaurant serving authentic, gourmet Provençal cuisine, often available on a terrace with stunning views. It holds 2 Ecotable macarons for its commitment to reducing environmental impact.
- Le Madeleine: Described as a more elaborate, gastronomic experience with painstakingly crafted dishes and a focus on local producers.
Breakfast is an "absolute feast," featuring a generous buffet with fresh fruits, pastries, cheeses, charcuterie, and eggs cooked to order, often enjoyed on the terrace with views. The hotel also offers a convivial Sunday brunch. A sleek and laid-back bar, located in the oldest part of the hotel, provides a perfect spot for evening drinks. Guests can also arrange for special picnics.
5. Service & Staff
The staff at Crillon le Brave consistently receive glowing reviews. Guests report feeling "very cared for" due to the team's "warm hospitality and helpfulness." Their service is described as being driven by "generosity, empathy, and goodwill," with staff always smiling and happy to assist. They provide excellent recommendations for exploring the local area and are noted for thoughtful touches, such as leaving sunglass cleaners and bookmarks in rooms.
6. Location & Accessibility
Crillon le Brave is situated in a charming medieval hilltop village of the same name, with a population of about 400 residents, in the heart of Provence. It's an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region, including famous attractions like Gordes, the Luberon Valley, and Avignon (approximately a 40-45 minute drive). Nearby towns also include Vaison, Carpentras, and Bédoin. While a car is recommended for exploring the wider area, bicycle rentals are available at the hotel. Public transport is limited.
7. Value & Pricing
Crillon le Brave is positioned as a luxury experience. While a perfect stay is often deemed a "once-in-a-lifetime experience", one review noted a "Value for money" rating of 8.3 out of 10. Some external feedback suggests that a nearby hotel might offer "far better value" for a similar experience. Room rates can start from around €425-€450 per night depending on the season and room type.
8. Common Complaints
While overwhelmingly positive, a few minor points of criticism have been noted:
- One guest mentioned that the "fancy restaurant at Hotel Crillon le Brave was apparently so-so" in comparison to expectations.
- The hotel's main pool was described as "smaller and more crowded" compared to a pool at a different, nearby hotel.
- The property does not have an elevator, and some upper floors are accessible by stairs only, which might be a consideration for guests with mobility issues.
Sources
Points to Consider
- •While overwhelmingly positive, a few minor points of criticism have been noted:
- •The property does not have an elevator, and some upper floors are accessible by stairs only, which might be a consideration for guests with mobility issues.
About One Michelin Key
One Michelin Key is awarded to hotels that offer a very special stay. These properties are characterized by their unique personality, high quality, and ability to create memorable experiences for guests.
