When temperatures rise and cities become overwhelming, the desire to slow down and reconnect with nature becomes stronger.
This summer, France offers a wealth of destinations where nature, wellbeing and the art of living come together to create a true escape from the heat. From alpine peaks to Champagne vineyards and the royal forests of Chantilly, discover three exceptional retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful break surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, refined cuisine and restorative experiences.
From alpine peaks to Champagne vineyards
1. Refuge Chez La Tante: a mountain retreat facing Mont Blanc
Perched at an altitude of 1,850 metres in Mont d’Arbois, Saint Gervais, Refuge Chez La Tante invites guests to experience a complete immersion in the mountain lifestyle. Once the first high altitude self service restaurant in the Alps, opened in the 1960s, this historic location has been beautifully renovated by the Beyond Places group to become an intimate retreat with just 20 rooms.
The property combines a warm and inviting atmosphere with natural materials, local craftsmanship and cosy interiors. On the dining side, the mountain brasserie offers generous cuisine centred around open fire cooking and local specialities, while the evening restaurant reserved for residents highlights Savoyard producers and regional ingredients. The bar completes the experience with signature cocktails inspired by mountain plants and spirits.
To enhance the sense of escape, the refuge features an authentic spa with an indoor pool, sauna, hammam and Susanne Kaufmann treatments. Between stargazing sessions, peaceful walks and moments of relaxation, Chez La Tante offers a unique opportunity to slow down while enjoying breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. Rates start from €528 per night for two people including half board.
2. LOISIUM Wine & Spa Hotel Champagne: a peaceful retreat among vineyards and nature
Located in Mutigny, in the heart of the Champagne region, LOISIUM Wine & Spa Hotel Champagne offers a unique experience combining nature, design and the art of wine. Set on a hillside overlooking vineyards and surrounding forests, the hotel creates a sensory journey centred around wine, wellbeing and relaxation.
The rooms, designed by Patrick Jouin and Sanjit Manku, reflect a strong connection with nature through bright, calming spaces. The bistronomic restaurant La Table des Amis celebrates seasonal cuisine with panoramic views over the vineyards, while the Les Bulles bar invites guests to enjoy champagne, cocktails and fine wines in an elegant setting featuring a central fireplace.
The 1,000 square metre Spa Club provides the perfect sanctuary during the summer months, with an outdoor heated pool, saunas, hammam and peaceful relaxation areas. Guests can also enjoy exclusive experiences such as meetings with local winemakers, private cellar visits and tastings to discover the secrets of the Champagne terroir. Rooms start from €239 including breakfast.
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A château surrounded by forest for a royal escape
3. InterContinental Chantilly Château Mont Royal: timeless elegance close to Paris
Just 35 minutes from Paris, in the heart of the Chantilly forest, InterContinental Chantilly Château Mont Royal offers a refined retreat surrounded by nature. Set within an early 20th century château inspired by Louis XVI style architecture, this five star property combines heritage, elegance and contemporary comfort.
The rooms and suites celebrate Chantilly’s equestrian heritage and local lace craftsmanship, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. The culinary experience includes La Brasserie, which serves seasonal French bistronomic cuisine, while the Sunday brunch in the Opéra room highlights refined savoury dishes and sweet creations from the pastry chef, including the famous Chantilly cream.
Guests can also take part in a signature workshop discovering the secrets behind the authentic Chantilly cream. The wellness area offers a heated indoor pool, sauna, hot tub overlooking the forest and personalised treatments designed for complete relaxation.
With opportunities to explore the Domaine de Chantilly, the Great Stables or the historic town of Senlis, this château provides the perfect combination of nature, culture and tranquillity.
Three destinations to reconnect with freshness and serenity this summer
During the hottest months of the year, these three French retreats offer far more than a simple getaway: they provide a true reconnection with nature. From the alpine heights of the Mont Blanc region to the Champagne vineyards and the royal forest of Chantilly, each destination offers a unique experience where wellbeing, gastronomy and slow living take centre stage. These are ideal escapes to unwind, breathe and enjoy a summer defined by freshness, elegance and serenity.
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