Le Domaine des Andéols is a cinematic journey where nature and contemporary art play the leading roles. Vincenzo Regine, the new chef, treats us to cuisine full of surprises, in perfect harmony with the soul of this unique place in Provence. Our favorite.
A stone’s throw from the famous villages of Roussillon and Gordes, Le Domaine des Andéols seems straight out of a dream. Lavender fields, cypress trees, and olive groves stretch as far as the eye can see. There are no neighbors in sight. You are overcome by a wonderful feeling of solitude in this infinite space where nature and light intertwine. Yes, it is still possible to stay in a prestigious hotel and feel at home. The Domaine des Andéols, which stretches majestically over 32 hectares with only 19 keys, is undeniably a unique place in Provence. This is luxury!
Olivier Massart, scenographer of “this astonishing hotel of desire”
Behind this vision is Olivier Massart, owner of this exceptional retreat, an extraordinary personality and a master of scenography in the fashion world.
A little history. Because you can’t understand “this astonishing hotel of desire” without delving into the origins of its creation.
Originally a photographer, Olivier Massart had the idea of taking fashion shows out of their confined salons and staging them with a story, lighting, and music. It was a huge success. He revolutionized the catwalks of Paco Rabanne, Kenzo, Guy Laroche, and others. All the great couturiers wanted their own scenography. He had invented a new profession. His agency, La Mode en Images, founded in 1981, quickly became the go-to place for designing grandiose events around the world. The “dream maker” (as he describes himself) opened offices in New York, Shanghai and Dubai. For 44 years, the agency has designed more than 8,000 fashion shows and major events.
Who could forget the breathtaking celebration of the Eiffel Tower’s centenary in 1989, the opening of the 1998 World Cup final, or the appeal of June 18, 1940, with a giant radio set from the period on the Place de la Concorde?
A native of Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt, Olivier Massart inherited the Domaine des Andéols when his grandfather died. Very attached to his region, he came here to recharge his batteries and turned it into an artists’ residence, a place for reunions and parties with his friends from the world of fashion and cinema. But this period of carefree generosity could not last forever in the shade of the centuries-old plane tree, a gathering place for showbiz personalities. Gradually, this former hamlet was transformed into a charming sanctuary, a sublime design hotel. A secret address loved by dreamers and aesthetes alike.
What makes this hotel so magical? Olivier Massart created his most beautiful show here. At the Domaine des Andéols, he imagined, designed, and sculpted an open-air museum displaying the works of art he has collected over the years. His wife, Patrizia Pilotti, participated in this adventure, bringing her elegance and Italian joie de vivre to the project. Each house has a personality that surprises and exceeds all standards of luxury. Guests from all over the world enjoy a unique artistic and bucolic experience unlike any other. Alain Chabat, Vanessa Demouy, Michel Field, and many other celebrities are regulars.
Click here to read the full article on Luxus Magazine
Featured photo: Overview of the Domaine des Andéols, a former hamlet transformed into a sublime designer hotel DR
