Domaine Gaogaia – Countryside Retreat near Aix-en-Provence
Nestled in a quiet enclave a ten-minute drive from Aix en Provence, Domaine Gaogaia is a rural hideaway that’s perfect for families and couples in search of quality time. More than a century of history is etched into the hotel’s walls, preserved from its past as a working farmhouse. Surrounded by a hectare of tree-filled parkland and with a brand new outdoor pool, Domaine Gaogaia is a relaxing sanctuary in the heart of the Provençal countryside.
Formerly a fairly typical Provençal farmhouse, this hotel is a short drive from the centre of Aix-en-Provence, known for its impressive 18th-century mansions, charming cafes and enlightening art museums.
Guests of Domaine Gaogaia are also only 35 minutes from the region’s coastline. The hotel is secluded and surrounded by green fields and narrow country roads. Guests are encouraged to explore these country roads by bicycle (electric available) and search out the friendly traditional villages the area is famed for.
Light and bright, the contemporary restaurant at Domaine Gaogaia is its shining glory. Overlooking one of the property’s magnificent horse-chestnut trees, the restaurant is a masterclass in classic French bistro fare. Decidedly unfussy, the menu utilizes the freshest, locally produced ingredients to create beloved Provençal dishes like ratatouille with an elegant twist.
Breakfast is a delightful array of sun-kissed tomatoes, exquisite cheeses, and fresh olive bread. Continental in style, the breakfast features thoughtful delicacies like lavender honey, homemade jam, and herbal teas, and a gorgeous array of crispy pastries you’ll want to sample in full.
Light and bright, the contemporary restaurant at Domaine Gaogaia is its shining glory. Overlooking one of the property’s magnificent horse-chestnut trees, the restaurant is a masterclass in classic French bistro fare. Decidedly unfussy, the menu utilizes the freshest, locally-produced ingredients to create beloved Provençal dishes like ratatouille with an elegant twist.
Breakfast is a delightful array of sun-kissed tomatoes, exquisite cheeses, French ham and fresh olive bread. Continental in style, the breakfast features thoughtful delicacies like lavender honey, homemade jam, and herbal teas, and a gorgeous array of crispy pastries you’ll want to sample in full.
This hotel has 18 rooms, each of which is completely unique in layout and decor. The rooms are painted in the palette of a gentle sky and feature authentic Provençal mosaics and terracotta tiles. Every room is air-conditioned and has a desk and flat-screen TV, although it’s unlikely you’ll make use of either. Certain boutique rooms have extra features like a freestanding bathtub or wooden deck that looks directly onto a cornfield. A shared lounge and courtyard restaurant add to the hotel’s laid-back vibe.
Wheelchair accessible
One room on the ground floor is adapted for use by persons with disabilities.
Family-friendliness
The largest family room in the hotel is suitable for four people so large families will need multiple rooms. The hotel’s relaxed vibe is great for a big family getaway and the restaurant caters to little ones with simple takes on Provençal fare, like croque monsieur with frites.
An inspired decision to build a sizeable outdoor pool in the grounds takes this hotel from a renovated farmhouse to a chic rural hideaway. In summer, sitting poolside is the hotel’s main activity but table tennis and boules are also available. The hotel’s informal and accommodating staff encourage the hire of electric bicycles to explore the area. It is possible to play golf and take an organized hike in the region; and if you want spa facilities, make the short trip into Aix-en-Provence.
Photos @ Domaine Gaogaia
