Le Prieuré Baumanière: a starry interlude in Provence
A stone’s throw from Avignon, Le Prieuré Baumanière cultivates a rare elegance, between monastic serenity and gastronomic refinement. Nestled in a former 14th-century convent, this Relais & Châteaux hotel combines history, hospitality and Michelin-starred cuisine in the heart of a fragrant garden.
A house of character and timeless charm
Located in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, in a village steeped in history opposite the City of the Popes, Le Prieuré Baumanière is in the tradition of the great houses of the soul. Behind its discreet facade backing onto the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, this five-star Relais & Châteaux seduces with its shady priest’s garden, wisteria trellises and timeless atmosphere.
Bought in 2007 by Geneviève and Jean-André Charial, emblematic figures of French art de vivre, the establishment has been tastefully and delicately redesigned. The 36 rooms and suites, spread over three buildings, blend old-world charm with contemporary touches in a luminous palette. Every space, from the lounges to the terraces, cultivates a form of elegant simplicity, far removed from ostentatious luxury.
The Baumanière spirit, between demanding standards and conviviality
Managed by Alexandre Favier, a close associate of Jean-André Charial, Le Prieuré perpetuates the spirit of Baumanière Les Baux-de-Provence, where a personalized welcome and human warmth are at the heart of the experience. In high season, a 55-strong team ensures the comfort of guests, in an atmosphere of joyful serenity, imbued with benevolence.
The hotel’s boutique, like the rest of the hotel, showcases local craftsmanship and know-how: olive oils, natural cosmetics, tableware and exclusive products such as “L’Affectif”, Monsieur Charial’s wine. A resolutely locavore approach, in keeping with the house’s ethical commitment.
Christophe Chiavola’s sensitive gastronomy
Since 2023, Chef Christophe Chiavola has been breathing new culinary life into Le Prieuré. A native of Savoie, his cuisine is instinctive, seasonal, sincere and uncluttered, inspired by local Mediterranean produce. His Michelin-starred table invites you to discover floral, iodized and sometimes tangy flavors, in a spirit of controlled creativity.
Signature dishes include a daring “Pigeon, oysters, artichoke, spicy ginger jus”, and a “Retour de petit bateau” featuring local fish. The emphasis is on respect for the product, elegance of gesture and generosity without ostentation. In fine weather, meals can be enjoyed on the terrace, in the shade of the jasmine trees, facing the organic vegetable garden where children love to pick strawberries.
A strong, lasting local base
Le Prieuré’s cuisine relies on a network of carefully selected local artisans and producers: organic market gardeners, breeders, fishermen, cheesemakers and beekeepers. In particular, the restaurant works with Mas de Carles (Villeneuve), Balz’Art vinegar factory in Roussillon, and Maison Plantin for truffles.
This proximity to producers guarantees freshness, traceability and reduced impact, while promoting the richness of neighboring terroirs. The Chef also offers vegetarian and vegan menus based on organic vegetables, plant-based milks and olive oils produced on partner estates.
A global experience, between table and transmission
In addition to gourmet dining, Le Prieuré offers a lively, immersive experience: cooking classes in small groups, discussions with the Chef, visits to the kitchen garden… Each guest is invited to plunge into the world of taste, in a relaxed but refined atmosphere.
The Déjeuner (€95), Dégustation (€130) and customized wine & food pairing menus let you discover the full creative palette of our Chef. Meanwhile, the velvet-draped dining room and its antique fireplace add to the magic of the place.
Le Prieuré Baumanière embodies a precious, delicate and deeply rooted art of entertaining. An address where one comes for calm, taste and a certain idea of Provencal elegance.
📍 7 place du Chapitre, 30400 Villeneuve-lès-Avignon
🌐 www.leprieure.com
📞 +33 (0)4 90 15 90 15
Also read: Giverny in bloom: the Maison de Monet reopens its doors
