An epicenter of art made famous by the many painters and film stars who have stayed there, the village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, far from the hustle and bustle of the French Riviera, offers a true haven of peace. Acumen offers you a journey that will charm your senses.
Day 1, 14 p.m.: Domaine du Mas de Pierre
To truly appreciate the village perched on its rocky spur, a beautifully curated base is essential. Our suggestion? Domaine du Mas de Pierre. Housed in a former farmhouse since 2005, this 5-star hotel offers an enchanting setting. This is thanks in particular to Jean Mus, a well-known landscape architect in the region, who designed the magnificent gardens. A veritable ode to the Provençal landscape and the Mediterranean, this verdant haven reveals rose gardens, centuries-old olive trees, vegetable gardens, an orchid greenhouse, and beds of fragrant plants, all punctuated by water features.
After settling into one of the estate's nine bastides – perhaps the adults-only Bastide des Fleurs – a visit to the spa is a must. And with good reason: the spa was honored with a Luxury Spa Award in 2022. Those who appreciate the discipline will find plenty to enjoy, from the heated pool and Scandinavian shower to the hammam, herbal sauna (using herbs picked from the estate's own garden, of course), Himalayan salt sauna, and even a "snow cave" where the more adventurous can rub themselves with snow. Want to extend the relaxation? Head upstairs and settle in comfortably facing the monumental sculpted tuberose. The flower of this plant defines the spa's olfactory identity, created by Sonia Godet, a former perfumer for Cartier. Combined with iris and sandalwood, this fragrance can be found in the massage oil of the "Volupté" treatment.
Once you've relaxed, head to the garden of scents where you can enjoy a reimagined cosmopolitan made with Grasse gin, enhanced with a mandarin liqueur crafted by the monks of Île Saint-Honorat, and honey from the estate. A classic, revisited and refined, inspired by a painting by Marc Chagall. Then, it's time to visit Lis Orto, the hotel's bistro, where you can savor Niçoise specialties such as the famous salad and the equally renowned stuffed vegetables.
Domaine du Mas de Pierre
Relais & Châteaux Member
2320, Route des Serres, Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Day 2, 9 a.m.: Podgorny Gallery and Maeght Foundation
After a restful night's sleep, perhaps enjoying some waffles or crêpes at La Table de Pierre, the estate's gourmet restaurant, a visit to Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a must. A shuttle will take you there from the hotel. After strolling through the winding streets of this renowned village, explore its workshops and galleries—40 within the town walls and 70 more scattered throughout the surrounding area. Our favorite is the Galerie Podgorny, nestled between the pétanque court and the iconic Colombe d'Or. From May 17 to June 17, 2025, it will host an exhibition dedicated to Bernard Bezzina, entitled "Mémoire," which brings together a collection of his recent works, both sculptures and paintings. If you have time, don't hesitate to pay your respects at Marc Chagall's grave and ask the tourist office about visiting the truly remarkable Chapel of the White Penitents. It is also known as the "Folon Chapel," named after the artist who designed the decor, which includes a large mosaic, paintings, and stained-glass windows. It was built in the 17th century.e century, the building was restored in the early 2000s, and adorned with the unparalleled and colorful aesthetic of the Belgian artist.
In the afternoon, head down to the sublime Marguerite and Aimé Maeght Foundation. A sumptuous backdrop for the Jacquemus fashion show in 2024, the building is reminiscent of the Miró Foundation in Barcelona. It's worth noting that it's the work of the same architect, Josep Lluís Sert. Here, he created an example of Catalan Modernism, imbued with Mediterranean inspiration. Within its walls, visitors can admire icons of art history, from Calder to Bonnard, including Braque, Chagall, Giacometti, and Miró. And until June 9, 2025, the French artist Hélène Delprat can be discovered in the exhibition "Listen! It's an Eclipse." At the end of the day, return to the Domaine du Mas de Pierre to curl up by the fireplace or relax by the pool, weather permitting, while enjoying a delicious cocktail.
Podgorny Gallery
Place du Général-de-Gaulle, Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Maeght Foundation
623, chemin des Gardettes, Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Day 3, 10 a.m.: CAB Foundation
Last day! But before leaving Provence, it would be a shame not to visit the CAB Foundation. Created in 2012 in Brussels, the Foundation is dedicated to promoting Minimal and Conceptual art. Since 2020, it has also had a branch in the famous village, in a 1950s villa completely renovated by the French architect and designer Charles Zana. In addition to the permanent collections showcasing works by Carl Andre, Donald Judd, Sol LeWitt, Charlotte Posenenske, Frank Stella, and Dan Flavin, the CAB Foundation in Saint-Paul-de-Vence is presenting, until November 2nd, an exhibition devoted to the historical artists of the Supports/Surfaces movement: "Particular Partners (Supports, Surfaces, Dissemination)." It also offers several guest rooms, including one that is none other than a demountable house by Jean Prouvé. A good excuse to return to Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
CAB Foundation Saint-Paul-de-Vence
5766, Chemin des Trious, Saint-Paul-de-Vence
