Le Jas du Boeuf

Le Jas du Boeuf

, Lieu dit Parrot, Cruis, Provence.

Le Jas du Boeuf is a 200 year-old farmhouse lying on the southern slopes of the Montagne du Lure under the clear blue skies of Haute Provence offering a magical location in which to indulge oneself in a little rural calm. All around there are hundreds of acres of forests and fields scented with wild herbs and lavender. You can neither hear nor see the roads and village from the hotel. There are no neighbours within view or hearing distance and all four rooms have their own private entrances directly from the gardens.

As might be expected of owners with an eye for design, the décor of the hotel is stylish, expertly blending respect for tradition with clean contemporary furnishings. The 9m x 7m infinity pool overlooks the spectacular scenery, salt and chlorine-free thanks to the latest UV technology. The pool serves as a focal point in what is a peaceful haven of a little hotel two miles from the village of Cruis.

The space that surrounds the hotel is certainly not little, but Le Jas du Boeuf is: two double rooms are found in the farmhouse, each with their own entrance to the building and one with a private terrace, as well as what is perhaps the highlight, two double bungalows, constructed from wood in a very contemporary style by the infinity pool. All rooms have a hair-dryer and bath and pool towels, as well as tea and coffee-making facilities.

Breakfast is French style and includes a rotating menu of croissants and breads as well as home-made cakes and muffins accompanied by fresh fruit, juices, excellent coffees and teas, local yogurt or fromage blanc, honey, and jams. There is always a fresh batch of granola on hand made with organic oats and local honey. On most days you can eat in the courtyard under the mulberry or almond trees. Otherwise, meals are taken in the farmhouse. With a background in quality organic catering, Dana and Jerome are pretty fussy about the food they prepare and serve. The first priority is taste, which usually means fresh, local ingredients. Organic is best, of course, though not always available, but Dana looks beyond the label to ensure quality.

There is also a fully equipped summer kitchen at the disposal of guests that has a great view. There are also two restaurants just down the road that are recommended. Bookings can be made from the hotel.