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Summary of reviewsGarrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix, housed in a beautifully restored old monastery, provides guests with a serene and romantic retreat amid the rugged natural beauty of the Provençal landscape. Overlooking the Salon de Provence valley and set on an elevated hilltop, it offers breathtaking panoramic views from rooms, terraces and the restaurant. The historical charm of the abbey blends seamlessly with modern comforts, creating an exquisite and tranquil ambiance. The exceptional location also makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Provence's nearby attractions and villages.
The breakfast experience at the hotel is consistently praised for its diversity, quality and sumptuous presentation, enhanced by attentive service and a picturesque setting. Though some feel there could be more variety, the general consensus is that the breakfast offers an excellent start to the day.
Dinner reviews are more mixed with many guests praising the refined, gourmet cuisine and the stunning restaurant location. While some describe the dining experience as luxurious and memorable, others find the high prices and service inconsistencies detract from overall satisfaction.
Rooms at the Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix are frequently highlighted for their spaciousness, comfort and unique historical charm. Large, airy rooms with beautiful views, often featuring balconies or terraces, are designed to preserve the spirit of the former monastery. Despite occasional concerns about room conditions and delays, the serene environment and superb facilities, including a well-maintained garden and pool, make for a delightful stay.
Guests widely praise the staff for their kindness, attentiveness and professionalism, making guests feel valued and well-cared-for. Though some note that the staff is occasionally young and inexperienced, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.
The impressive pool, described as large and crystal clear, offers a refreshing escape with a stunning setting, despite some comments about its temperature and limited amenities. The parking facilities are spacious and free, although access can be confusing and the distance to rooms might be inconvenient for some.
Bedding receives varied feedback; many guests find the beds comfortable and conducive to a restful night's sleep, although a few find the mattresses too hard or uncomfortable.
While the cleanliness and maintenance receive mixed feedback, some areas of the property are noted as well-maintained and spotless, but issues such as mold, bad odors and poolside cleanliness are recurrent concerns.
Overall, Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix combines the charm of an ancient abbey with modern luxury, offering an enchanting and romantic escape. Despite some criticisms, particularly regarding cleanliness and the four-star rating, its remarkable staff, beautiful setting and unique historical ambiance make it a memorable destination. Show more
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Luxury Hotel
This 4-star hotel is set in a historic 12th-century abbey, offering a unique and exclusive setting. It features a panoramic restaurant, an outdoor pool, and a spa, providing a charming and high-end experience outside of Aix-en-Provence. [228847 data, general search]
Family Friendly Hotel
This hotel provides a unique experience in a historic abbey setting. The hotel offers spacious rooms and a tranquil environment suitable for families seeking a peaceful retreat.
Romantic Hotel
Located in a former abbey, this hotel offers a unique and romantic setting. The historic architecture and peaceful surroundings create a memorable experience. The hotel's charm and tranquility make it a desirable choice for couples.
Hotel with Swimming Pool
This hotel, set in a former abbey, provides a unique and elegant experience. It features a grand terrace with valley views and a swimming pool that soaks up the sun, making it ideal for relaxation and enjoying the Provençal landscape.
Heated Pool Outdoor Pool
Hotel with Parking
Located in a regional park, this boutique hotel offers free self-parking. It's well-suited for guests seeking a tranquil stay with convenient parking.
EV charging stations
4-Star Hotel
Located in Salon-de-Provence, this hotel is known for its historic setting and serene atmosphere, with dedicated spa services. The unique ambiance and quality amenities make it a top choice.
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
This hotel boasts a heated outdoor swimming pool, available in season, with a panoramic view. It is part of a wellness area for enhanced relaxation.
Hotel with Heated Pool
This 4-star hotel features a heated outdoor pool available from April to October/September, set in a tranquil abbey with a wellness area.
Hotel with EV Charging Stations
Hotel for Honeymoon
Dog Friendly Hotel
Business Hotel
Accessible Hotel
Hotel for Yoga
Room Types
Standard Double RoomAll the rooms are different, and some are located in renovated monk cells. A minibar and satellite TV are provided.
Please specify at the time of booking if you would prefer 2 single beds.
Please not that when booking an extra bed, a single bed will be installed in the room
Superior Double RoomThese rooms feature a balcony or private garden and a minibar. Most offer garden views.
SuiteThis room features air conditioning, satellite TV and bathrobe. There is also a terrace with a panoramic view.
Breakfast is free of charge for children under 12 years old, when sharing the parents' room.
Family SuiteThis spacious suite comes with 1 living room, 2 separate bedrooms and 1 bathroom with a bath and free toiletries. Boasting a terrace, this suite also features air conditioning, soundproof walls and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The unit has 3 beds.
Duplex SuiteThe spacious suite has 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a bath and free toiletries. Boasting a balcony, this suite also features air conditioning, soundproof walls and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The unit has 3 beds.
Double RoomThe double room offers air conditioning. The unit offers 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
8.6
Very Good
Location
Situated in an old monastery amid rugged natural beauty, Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix consistently impresses guests with its exceptional location and breathtaking views. Overlooking the scenic Salon de Provence valley, this beautifully restored abbey offers panoramic vistas of the Provençal landscape, including the Étang de Berre and surrounding scrubland.
The tranquil, elevated hilltop position of the hotel means guests are treated to stunning vistas from virtually every angle, including rooms, terraces and the restaurant, where the views enhance an already exceptional dining experience. With a rich historical significance and unique charm, the abbey seamlessly blends a sense of history with modern comforts, making it an exquisite and serene retreat.
The environment is fascinating and idyllic, providing a romantic backdrop perfect for those looking to explore Provence. The quiet and panoramic setting is also ideal for visitors interested in taking leisurely drives to discover the nearby touristic attractions and small villages. The hotel's magical atmosphere and the friendliness of the staff further add to the allure, ensuring a memorable stay in this dreamlike location.
Breakfast
The breakfast at Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix consistently receives praise for its diversity and quality. Guests frequently highlight the extensive selection, noting it exceeds the basic offering of a typical continental breakfast with options catering to various dietary preferences including gluten-free choices. Many appreciate the picturesque setting, whether enjoying their meal in the charming dining room or on the terrace with its stunning views. Phrases such as "outstanding selection," "excellent and varied," and "a real highlight" underscore the positive experiences. While some feedback suggests room for improvement, particularly in terms of variety and staff availability, the general consensus points to a comprehensive, rich and delightful start to the day. High points include the sumptuous presentation and the suitability of the breakfast even for young children, all enhanced by the attentive service and beautiful ambiance.
Dinner
The dinner experience at Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix receives mixed reviews with many guests praising the exceptional quality of the food and the stunning setting of the restaurant. Positive feedback highlights the incredible and refined cuisine, delicious and well-presented dishes and the overall top-notch dining experience. Guests particularly appreciate the sumptuous and gourmet meals with some describing dinners as an explosion of flavors and the best meals they've had in years of traveling. The restaurant’s charming location under the pines and beautiful views also add to the delightful experience.
However, some guests have expressed disappointment, pointing out the high prices that do not always seem justified by the food quality. Criticisms include slow service, a limited menu and disappointing flavor profiles. A few reviews mention that the evening meals did not meet the hotel's otherwise high standards and could be considered inedible or below par. The consensus suggests that while the dining experience can be luxurious and memorable, there are inconsistencies in quality and value for money that potential guests should consider.
Rooms
Nestled in an exceptional location with a splendid atmosphere, Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix offers a charming stay imbued with history and character. The rooms are designed to preserve the spirit of the former monastery, providing a unique and memorable experience. Guests frequently highlight the spaciousness and comfort of the accommodations with particular praise for large, airy rooms, some featuring balconies or terraces that offer beautiful views of the surrounding area.
The entirely original layout, once monk cells, has been effectively maintained, giving the rooms a touch of historical authenticity and a rustic charm complemented by lovely and tasteful decorations. Many guests commend the rooms for being clean and well-equipped with comfortable bedding ensuring a restful night's sleep. The bathrooms, while sometimes noted as dated, generally meet the cleanliness standards expected.
Guests appreciate the quiet and serene environment the hotel offers, along with the superb facilities including a well-maintained garden and a great pool. The ambiance of the old stones and the superb location enhance the overall charm of the place, making it a delightful retreat.
Although there are occasional concerns about room conditions and delays, the friendly staff and excellent cuisine contribute to the overall positive experience. Ensuring a comfortable stay in a setting full of character, Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix stands out as a destination for those seeking both tranquility and a touch of historic elegance.
Beds
Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix offers a variety of experiences when it comes to their beds, highlighted by both comforts and occasional disappointments. Many guests appreciated the comfort of the bedding and described the beds as comfortable with some noting them as very comfortable or even emperor size and perfect. Positive feedback often focused on how comfy the beds were, adding to the overall comfort of the rooms.
However, not all experiences were the same. A few guests found the mattresses uncomfortable with some comparing them unfavorably to those in prison and mentioning waking up with back pain or struggling to sleep. There were remarks about the beds being hard as a board or just adequate, suggesting some inconsistency in comfort across different rooms.
Despite these mixed reviews, the general consensus points towards the bedding being of good quality and suitable for a restful night, although some guests might experience discomfort depending on their room.
Cleanliness
Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix receives mixed feedback on its cleanliness and maintenance. While guests have praised some aspects, including very clean and well-maintained areas, exceptional dining and well-appointed, spotless bathrooms, there are several recurring concerns.
Many guests pointed out average cleanliness or slight neglect in their rooms with specific comments about mold in the showers, poor maintenance and the presence of bad odors. Particular areas like the poolside and waste disposal zones raised concerns due to dirty glasses and general uncleanliness. Some reported that the stone floors hadn’t been cleaned in a long time and that cleaning was often nonexistent, especially considering current health standards.
Cleanliness issues not only extended to the interiors but also to the surroundings of the property, which were described as poorly maintained. Criticisms also involved the cleanliness of the toilets and tub and the lack of sufficient staff to manage the upkeep and cleanliness of the property effectively. Despite the charming architecture and stunning views, several guests felt that the insufficient cleanliness did not reflect the hotel’s supposed four-star status.
In summary, while Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix offers beautifully designed, clean rooms and picturesque dining experiences, it struggles with consistent cleanliness and maintenance, which detracts from its full potential as a premium hotel.
Staff
Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix is widely praised for its exceptional staff, who continuously impress guests with their kindness, attentiveness and professionalism. Every visitor seems to experience warm welcomes and effective communication from a team that is consistently described as friendly, accommodating and eager to help. Many reviews highlight the staff's flexibility and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay.
Guests appreciate the impeccable service with team members being both friendly and attentive upon arrival and throughout the stay. Whether it's making arrangements for guests or offering useful recommendations, the staff's helpfulness and dedication are clear. The reception staff, in particular, receives high marks for their pleasant demeanor and readiness to assist.
Despite some mentions of the staff being young and occasionally inexperienced, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. Visitors frequently commend the charming and courteous nature of the employees, noting their pride in the beautiful facility. The attention to detail and personable service contribute significantly to guests' enjoyable experiences at this hotel.
In summary, it’s the remarkable staff at Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix that earns the highest praise, making guests feel truly valued and well-cared-for during their stays.
Pool
The Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix boasts an impressive pool that is a highlight for many guests. Described as large, well-maintained and crystal clear, the pool offers a refreshing escape, particularly welcome during heatwaves. The surrounding environment, set in a beautifully restored abbey with lovely outdoor settings, enhances the overall experience, making the pool area a pleasant and stunning place to relax.
While the pool is often mentioned as gorgeous, magnificent and in a superb location, some guests noted that it did not always meet expectations of heated warmth, describing it as a bit cold. There were also observations about the lack of amenities around the pool area and occasional unavailability of loungers.
Despite some minor drawbacks, the general consensus is that the pool is a great asset to the hotel, providing a delightful retreat amidst beautiful natural surroundings. Whether soaking up the sun or enjoying the private sauna, guests find the pool area to be a significant and enjoyable feature of their stay.
Parking
Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix provides a spacious parking lot with ample room for vehicles, including designated electric car charging stations. Guests appreciate the shaded spots under the trees, ensuring vehicles remain cool. Parking is free and generally regarded as safe and secure. However, some guests have noted that the access to the parking lot and reception can be confusing and parking instructions could be clearer. Additionally, there is a significant distance between the parking lot and the rooms which might be inconvenient for some.
4 Star
Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix, a converted old monastery, has left guests with mixed feelings about its four-star rating. Many reviewers express disappointment, noting that the hotel's services and facilities don't live up to what one might expect from a four-star establishment. The state of the property, specifically the bathrooms and the overall quality of service seem to fall short of the luxurious experience typically associated with other four-star hotels in the Provence region. While the historic charm of the old monastery adds a unique touch, visitors find that it does not compensate for the high prices and limited amenities. Despite being branded as a four-star hotel, many guests argue that the standards need significant improvement to justify this rating.
Luxury
Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix combines the charm of an ancient stone abbey with modern luxury. Guests appreciate the calm environment and spacious, very comfortable rooms, each uniquely named after saints. The setting is described as incredible with gorgeous views and a lovely terrace for relaxation. The top rooms are equipped with all the luxury needed for a refined and friendly stay, offering the discreet charm of a rare world today. However, there are notes that the restaurant could improve with beautifully presented but flavor-lacking dishes and untrained service staff. Despite this, the overall ambiance and comfort make it a memorable destination.
Romantic
Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix offers a captivating retreat, perfect for romantic interludes amidst vacations. With its calm and serene atmosphere nestled in beautiful nature, it provides a wonderfully relaxing weekend for couples. The hotel's historic charm and well-preserved architecture serve as a picturesque backdrop, often likened to scenes from romantic movies. Whether enjoying a quiet evening creating lovely memories or indulging in the romantic restaurant, this destination ensures a delightful and enchanting escape. Ideal for the summer months, the setting is marked by great views and a refreshing, exotic ambiance. Truly, it stands out as a superb place for a romantic getaway or a short romantic trip in Provence, making it a destination where visitors often vow to return with their partners.
Yes, Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Heated Pool, Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix.
Yes, Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix.
No, Garrigae Abbaye de Sainte Croix doesn't have a gym.