Le Prieuré is a One Michelin Key hotel located in Avignon, France. It has been recognized by the Michelin Guide for its exceptional hospitality and unique experience.

How many Michelin Keys does Le Prieuré have?

Le Prieuré has been awarded One Michelin Key by the Michelin Guide, indicating a very special stay.

Where is Le Prieuré located?

Le Prieuré is located in Avignon, France, in the Europe region.

What makes a One Michelin Key hotel special?

One Michelin Key hotels provide very special stays with excellent service and a unique sense of place.

How do I book Le Prieuré?

You can view more details and booking information for Le Prieuré through the Michelin Guide website. Each Michelin Keys hotel offers a unique booking experience tailored to their guests.

Le Prieuré | One Michelin Key in Avignon, France

Name: Le Prieuré
Address: Avignon, Europe, France
Rating: 4.5

Expert Review: Le Prieuré

Le Prieuré, Avignon, France: A Michelin One Key Retreat of Provençal Charm

Le Prieuré, a distinguished Relais & Châteaux property in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, has garnered a strong reputation as a luxurious and tranquil escape, earning it a prestigious Michelin One Key rating. Guests consistently praise its blend of historic charm, exceptional service, and gastronomic excellence, making it a highly recommended destination for those seeking a refined Provençal experience.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Le Prieuré is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing it as "charming," "wonderful," and a "haven of peace". It consistently receives high ratings for comfort, staff, and location, with an overall score often reaching "Excellent" (8.6/10 based on 187 reviews). The sentiment is one of deep satisfaction, highlighting the hotel's ability to deliver an unforgettable stay.

2. Key Highlights

Guests are particularly enchanted by several aspects of Le Prieuré. The beautiful shaded gardens and courtyards are a recurring highlight, providing a serene environment for relaxation, dining, and breakfast. The historic charm and character of the 14th-century former convent and cardinal's residence are also frequently celebrated, offering a subtle blend of past and present. The exceptional gastronomic restaurant, holding a Michelin star, is another significant draw, captivating diners with its refined and inventive cuisine. Finally, the impeccable service and welcoming staff are consistently noted as a key factor contributing to the overall positive experience.

3. Room Quality

The rooms and suites at Le Prieuré are described as beautiful, comfortable, and well-equipped. Geneviève Charial's decor skillfully blends contemporary furniture with original stone, showcasing attention to detail such as alternating black and white tiles. Rooms offer modern comforts including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet, and minibars. Guests appreciate the spaciousness of the accommodations, with classic rooms ranging from 20 to 28 m² and suites offering private lounges and terraces, sometimes reaching up to 75 m². The bedding is often highlighted as "perfect" and "impeccable," ensuring a restful night's sleep.

4. Dining Experience

Le Prieuré offers a truly remarkable dining experience. The Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant, led by Chef Christophe Chiavola, presents a creative, refined, and seasonal cuisine with Mediterranean and floral notes and a touch of acidity. The surprise menu and inventive dishes, such as expertly grilled langoustine with rhubarb and Bigorre black bacon, are highly praised for their quality and flavor. There is also "La petite table du Prieuré" for a more relaxed bistro-style lunch. Breakfast receives excellent feedback for its selection and quality. The wine list is extensive, catering to diverse preferences.

5. Service & Staff

The service at Le Prieuré is consistently lauded as attentive, friendly, smart, and professional. Guests frequently comment on the helpful and welcoming nature of the staff, who are available 24 hours a day to assist with organizing stays. The restaurant service is particularly highlighted as "extremely polished and worthy of its Michelin star". Many guests feel a genuine warmth and a sense of being at a "true second home combining luxury and simplicity".

6. Location & Accessibility

Le Prieuré is ideally situated in the intriguing medieval town of Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, just a stone's throw or a 5-minute drive from the center of Avignon, across the Rhône River. This location offers a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Avignon, while still providing easy access to its attractions, such as the Palais des Papes. Villeneuve-lès-Avignon itself boasts a rich architectural and religious heritage, with monuments like the Philippe Le Bel Tower and the Collegiate Church Sainte-Anne within easy reach. The hotel offers a large parking lot, making it a convenient base for exploring the city and surrounding areas.

7. Value & Pricing

Le Prieuré is a 5-star Relais & Châteaux property, and its pricing reflects its luxury status and Michelin Key and Star distinctions. Rooms can start from approximately €179 or €223 for two people. While some guests rate the "Value for money" slightly lower (7.6/10) compared to other categories, the overall sentiment is that the experience is worth the cost, particularly given the exceptional service, beautiful setting, and high-quality dining. The five-course discovery menu at the gastronomic restaurant is priced around €95.

8. Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, some minor criticisms occasionally surface. One review noted that clients "don't like coffee at this spot". The "Value for money" score, while good, is slightly lower than other categories, suggesting that for some, the pricing might be a point of consideration. However, recurring significant issues or widespread complaints are not evident in the available reviews, underscoring the consistent high quality of the hotel.