La Mirande – Boutique Hotel in Avignon
With a history that dates back to the early 14th century, La Mirande is a boutique hotel that oozes romance in the heart of Avignon. It’s been lovingly renovated as an 18th-century nobleman’s townhouse while being equipped with all the modern amenities you’d expect of a five-star stay. Gastronomic experiences include dining in the gourmet restaurant or vintage kitchen, as well as learning the secrets of French cuisine at the hotel’s cooking school.
Situated adjacent to the iconic Palais des Papes, La Mirande is located in the heart of Avignon’s medieval centre. It’s within a short stroll of the 12th-century Pont d’Avignon and the city’s renowned art museums, together with plenty of cafes where you can grab a drink and watch the world go by.
If you prefer to stretch your legs, tackle the nearby Escaliers du Rocher des Doms to soak up the sweeping views across Avignon. The Gare d’Avignon Centre is a 15-minute walk from the hotel while the Avignon – Provence Airport is 20 minutes by taxi.
Dine where 14th-century cardinals once treated the popes to dinner in La Mirande’s restaurant, which is headed by Chef Florent Pietravalle. Awarded a Michelin-star in 2019, this gastronomic restaurant prides itself on serving gourmet French cuisine, drawing on produce from the hotel’s organic garden.
Begin the day with a decadent breakfast that’s optional with guest stays or indulge with afternoon tea on the fragrant garden patio. Meals at La Mirande are accompanied by an extensive wine list, with an emphasis on organic and biodynamic wines from the Rhône Valley.
Authentic dado wood panelling, textile wall hangings and silk-lined curtains feature in the guest rooms and suites, together with antique furnishings, original paintings and large, vintage windows. The resulting aesthetic transports you back to the Age of Enlightenment, with rich colours and textures around every corner. This style continues throughout the interior spaces while the tranquil garden feels like an oasis amidst the medieval surrounds.
The Queen and King Bed Double Rooms both feature Belle Époque bathrooms with tubs encased in Carrara Arabescato marble, while the spacious Suites add in large bathroom windows overlooking the Popes Palace. Air conditioning, minibars and dimmable lights are among the modern amenities, together with complimentary Wi-Fi.
La Mirande doesn’t offer any rooms or suites designed specifically for families, although adjacent rooms can be booked. There’s a collection of books and DVDs available for kids, together with babysitting and child-minding services for an additional charge.
While none of the rooms or suites is designed specifically for wheelchair access, there is a lift for accessing the upper floors.
La Mirande’s reception is open 24 hours a day for the convenience of guests and offers a currency exchange service, luggage storage and a concierge. Pets may be permitted to stay on a case-by-case basis and there’s a laundry service available for an additional charge.
If you’re interested in learning the secrets of French cuisine, why not participate in a cooking class at La Marmiton led by some of the region’s best chefs. Those travelling for work can take advantage of the hotel’s business facilities and private meeting space.
