La Bastide De Gordes by Jamie Dunford Wood

The second option around Gordes for the comfort-inclined is La Bastide de Gordes. This hotel is in the village itself, clinging to the rockside with fine views across the chasm-like valley to where the road winds up from the coast. Reception is on the upper level, and the rooms are on several levels down. Inevitably the hotel feels a little cramped, but the décor is pretty provencal though plain, with cool beige corridors and well chosen local oils on the walls. Deluxe rooms have separate showers, while two apartments have large sit-out terraces. Best rooms are in the new wing - larger with bigger windows. Like Les Bories there is a professional spa here, complete with floating beds, an ionization room cut into the rock face, a hammam, chromatic indoor pool and idromassage.

Unfortunately the hotel sees fit to charge guests to use the spa. The hotel is also set on the busy entrance road to the village, and in the summers it is one of many clogged with British Volvos and German BMWs. Still, for a short stay it is picturesque and highly convenient. For longer stays head for Les Bories.