Hotel Review: Les Bories & Spa
My favorite part of southern France is the collection of enchanting villages scattered throughout the Provence region. Among them, Gordes stands out as one of the most picturesque, and it has even been recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in the world. Perched on the foothills of the Vaucluse Mountains, the village is centered around the historic Château de Gordes, founded in 1031 and surrounded by winding cobblestone streets and charming local shops. I wanted to spend a few days exploring the area, and that’s how I discovered Les Bories & Spa, a wellness-focused luxury hotel set on beautifully manicured grounds. It offered the perfect home base for my wife and me to experience Gordes and the nearby villages at a relaxed, immersive pace. Here is my review of Les Boris & Spa:
Les Bories & Spa is located at Rte de Senanque, 84220 Gordes, France, right next to the picturesque village of Gordes.
Location
Les Bories & Spa is located in the picturesque village of Gordes, Provence. Nearby attractions include the hilltop Village of Gordes, the 12th-century Abbaye de Sénanque, the open-air museum of Village des Bories, the vibrant ochre village of Roussillon, and the antique market town of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning lavender fields in season and explore the diverse landscapes of Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon. The area offers various activities such as hiking, cycling, wine tasting, cultural tours, and visits to local markets.
Lobby & Check-In Review
After navigating the hilly, winding roads of Gordes, we arrived at the hotel’s parking lot, conveniently located next to the lobby. Both covered and uncovered spots were available on a first-come, first-served basis. The hotel’s exterior captured the authentic charm of the region, constructed with flat limestone that echoed the area’s traditional architecture.
The hotel’s exterior beautifully showcased the traditional limestone architecture reminiscent of the nearby Village des Bories.
Just minutes from the property sits the Village des Bories, known for its ancient stone huts built with the same distinctive limestone that has become a hallmark of Gordes. Upon entering the hotel, we stepped into a small, whitewashed check-in area adorned with artwork of the surrounding mountains.
Check-in was smooth and efficient, though the receptionist could have provided a more thorough overview of the hotel’s amenities.
Our room was ready, but to our delight, the hotel generously upgraded us to a larger one at no extra cost. The only catch was that the upgraded room wasn’t ready yet.
Les Bories & Spa was adorned with artwork throughout the interior and scattered across its scenic grounds.
Fortunately, the hotel hosts an afternoon tea daily from 4 to 5 PM in the main lobby, giving us the perfect way to pass the time.
Each afternoon from 4 to 5 PM, the lounge hosted a complimentary tea service, offering a tranquil break in the day.
The lounge featured plush couches, a library-like nook with a grand piano, and dining tables.
By evening, the lounge transformed into an elegant dining space accompanied by the relaxing sounds of live jazz.
Natural light streamed through large windows during the day, while at night, the space transformed into a cozy, intimate bar.
Bathed in natural light, the lounge was a great spot to unwind with a warm cup of tea.
There was a selection of teas to choose from—my wife opted for an herbal blend, while I went with green tea.
A wide variety of teas were available, including several caffeine-free options.
Each of us received our own pot, along with pearl-shaped sugar cubes.
The double-walled glass cups kept the tea hot, allowing every sip to stay enjoyable until the end.
The hotel offered a complimentary plate of sweet baked treats that paired perfectly with the tea. By the time we finished, our room was ready.
Light French pastries were served buffet-style—just enough to complement the tea without being too heavy
Since we were traveling with another couple, the hotel had placed us in adjacent rooms set slightly apart from the main building. We actually preferred this arrangement, as it offered more privacy and quick access to the parking lot, almost like having our own private entrance.
Our room overlooked the hotel entrance, making it easy to come and go without hassle.
With physical keys in hand, we climbed a short flight of stairs and stepped into the room.
Bedroom Review
Just outside the room entrance was a small shared balcony with two tables—one for our room and the other for the neighboring suite. It was a great setup for couples traveling together or a small family, and it was the perfect spot to enjoy a quiet morning coffee or a relaxed afternoon drink.
We made great use of the private outdoor dining tables, sipping wine and snacking late into the night.
Stepping into the room, I was immediately struck by its modern farmhouse charm. Hardwood floors, white ceiling beams, and elegant wall moldings created a warm yet refined atmosphere. Since I had mentioned we were celebrating our one-year wedding anniversary, the hotel thoughtfully arranged rose petals on the king-sized bed, adding a romantic touch.
The room struck a balance between modern comfort and rustic charm, with exposed ceiling beams adding a cozy farmhouse feel.
The bed was exceptionally comfortable, flanked by spacious nightstands on each side. Conveniently placed master switches and dimmable wall sconces made the space feel even more inviting.
A conveniently placed dial knob allowed us to adjust the wall lights to the perfect level of warmth and ambiance.
Across from the bed was a dedicated work desk paired with a large wall-mounted TV. While the screen didn’t obstruct the desk space, it might not be the best viewing angle if someone is working.
The work desk setup wasn’t ideal if your companion wanted to watch TV, as the layout created a bit of a conflict.
In the corner of the room, a small dining table with chairs provided an additional seating area.
A simple white tablecloth added an elegant touch to the welcome experience and made us feel instantly at home.
As a welcome gift, the hotel offered us a chilled bottle of Provençal rosé and a selection of baked treats. The wine was crisp and refreshing—ideal for a summer evening.
The bottle of rosé didn’t last long—especially when enjoyed outdoors under the sun.
The minibar was also well-stocked with champagne, liquor, soft drinks, and juices.
With no convenience store nearby, we found ourselves cracking open a few drinks from our stash to unwind during the stay.
Just above it sat an espresso machine and a variety of tea bags to cater to all beverage preferences.
We skipped the in-room coffee and tea pods and opted instead for the complimentary afternoon tea service in the lobby.
If I had one critique, it would be the view, as our room didn’t overlook the pool or lavender fields. However, its proximity to the entrance and parking lot made coming and going effortless, which we appreciated throughout our stay.
Bathroom Review
The bathroom featured an all-white interior with glossy granite tiles that added a clean, polished look. A sloped ceiling and classic French windows carried through the modern farmhouse charm seen throughout the room. There were two individual sink vanities, each with its own mirror, offering a convenient setup for couples.
The all-white bathroom was impressively spacious, with traditional French windows that added a touch of charm and character.
However, aside from the small ledges near the faucets for toiletries and hand towels, there was no extra storage, and I found myself wishing the hotel had included shelving or cabinets beneath the sinks. Toiletries were provided by L'Occitane, a well-known Provençal brand, and the Verveine line gave off a refreshing mix of lemon and geranium.
Like many hotels across the greater Provence region, Les Bories & Spa partnered with L'Occitane for its bath amenities.
The walk-in shower, tucked into a corner with a sleek glass barrier, kept the surrounding floor dry. The rainfall showerhead delivered a rejuvenating experience, and a large heated towel rack added a touch of luxury by keeping towels warm and ready after a shower or bath.
The deep soak-in tub was delightful, and the oversized heated towel rack kept our bath towels nicely warm and dry.
There was also a deep standalone tub, generously sized for two people. For anyone planning to take a bath, I recommend placing extra towels on the floor, as the glossy tiles can get quite slippery. Across from the main bathroom was a separate water closet, which provided added privacy.
The only thing missing was a small sink in the water closet, which would have added extra convenience.
However, it lacked a small sink, meaning I had to return to the main bathroom to wash my hands—something to keep in mind if the space is already in use. Overall, I appreciated how spacious and well-designed the bathroom was, especially considering it was part of a standard room.
Hotel Grounds & Pool Review
Les Bories & Spa is set on a stunning 8-hectare estate filled with olive trees, cypress, and lavender. Strolling through the property was a true pleasure, with beautifully maintained gardens and thoughtfully placed artwork throughout. Just beyond the tea room in the lobby, a charming fountain sat beside the outdoor dining area, adding to the serene atmosphere.
Set on an 8-hectare estate, the hotel offered plenty of space to wander—and with perfect June weather, exploring the grounds was a joy.
During my visit in June, the flowers were in full bloom, making the walks around the property not only visually beautiful but also wonderfully aromatic.
Sculptures by French artist Chantal Cheuva were thoughtfully placed throughout the property, adding an artistic touch at every turn.
Throughout the grounds were sculptures by French artist Chantal Cheuva. While her style wasn’t exactly to my taste, I admired the hotel’s effort to incorporate local art into the environment.
Art was seamlessly woven into the hotel’s design, creating a refined yet inspiring atmosphere.
Outside, guests could enjoy a tree-lined walking path or head down to the outdoor infinity pool, which was open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM and lightly heated.
The infinity pool, lightly heated and impressively large, was a highlight for relaxation and scenic swims.
Sunbeds surrounded the pool, and a nearby poolside restaurant served light bites and refreshments between 12 PM and 2 PM.
Outdoor dining and afternoon cocktails were a hit among guests, making the terrace a lively social spot as the day wore on.
For those looking to lounge in the sun without getting in the water, there were extra chairs set up near a lovely lavender field.
Although lavender season had just begun during our visit, the soft, fragrant scent still lingered in the air.
Even though the lavender wasn’t in full bloom yet, the scent lingered in the air, creating a soothing and peaceful setting.
The gentle scent of lavender lingered throughout the property, adding a touch of Provençal charm to our getaway.
The next day, since it was a bit breezy outside, we explored the indoor pool. Located adjacent to the spa, the pool featured a skylight ceiling and tall windows that bathed the space in sunlight while offering views of the surrounding landscape.
The indoor pool was just as impressive as the outdoor one, with a skylight ceiling that bathed the space in natural light.
Guests could access the full spa experience for €25 per person, which included a sauna, steam room, Plénitude waterbed, and several treatment rooms for massages and facials.
As a wellness-focused hotel, Les Bories & Spa featured an extensive selection of spa equipment and treatment rooms.
After using the sauna, we relaxed in the herbal tea room, a quiet space perfect for unwinding or waiting for a partner to finish their treatment.
A serene waiting room was available for spa guests, offering a peaceful space to unwind before or after treatments.
The hotel also had an indoor gym and an outdoor tennis court, although we mostly took advantage of the pools during our stay. If I had one minor complaint, it would be that the pools weren’t quite as warm as I would have liked. Still, the overall experience—the tranquil grounds, fresh air, and variety of wellness facilities—perfectly captured the relaxing spirit of southern France. I highly recommend making time to enjoy these amenities during your stay.
Breakfast Review—The Bistrot des Bories
Breakfast was served on the ground floor at the hotel’s restaurant, The Bistrot des Bories, from 7:30 AM to 11 AM. It was complimentary thanks to my Hyatt Globalist status, and since the restaurant is Michelin-recommended, I had high expectations for the meal.
Breakfast was served each morning at Bistrot des Bories, located on the ground floor of the hotel.
The dining room was divided into sections based on table size and offered a modern yet rustic atmosphere, complete with exposed wooden beams and large windows that showcased the surrounding hotel grounds.
In the evenings, a wine and cognac tasting room opened up, and it was a great spot to explore regional flavors.
The buffet area had a more traditional feel, with an A-frame ceiling and exposed brickwork that added character to the space.
The A-frame ceiling and exposed brick walls gave the space an authentic, rustic character that fit the Provençal setting beautifully.
The breakfast selection leaned more toward continental offerings, with a few hot dishes such as bacon and scrambled eggs.
While the breakfast buffet wasn’t the most expansive, the quality of each item was excellent.
There was also a station where guests could cook soft- or hard-boiled eggs in a hot water bath. I tried making one, but the water wasn’t quite hot enough, so it took longer than the suggested time.
One minor miss was the hot water bath for soft-boiled eggs wasn’t quite warm enough.
While waiting, I sampled meats and cheeses from the buffet. The ham and prosciutto were excellent and paired well with a variety of soft cheeses.
The cheeses were served at the perfect temperature and tasted lovely.
Smoked salmon was presented with individual slices of lemon, a thoughtful touch that complemented both the scrambled eggs and fresh baguette. The bread selection included several varieties, but the baguettes stood out for their flavor and texture.
Honestly, a freshly baked baguette with French butter was the perfect start to my day.
For pastries, there were petite croissants, pain au raisins, and pain au chocolat. Whole fruits were available, although most guests opted for the pre-cut fruit salad for convenience.
The strawberries were small but bursting with flavor—sweet, tender, and ripe.
The dessert section featured a range of baked goods including chocolate chip cookies, apple tarts, crepes with spreads, and a rich chocolate loaf cake topped with chocolate hazelnut glaze.
The chocolate loaf cake was decadently rich and packed with intense cacao flavor.
Healthier options were also available. Guests could create yogurt bowls with dried fruits and nuts or pick up individually packaged granola to enjoy with yogurt or take along as a snack.
The yogurt was thick and creamy, though it’s worth noting there wasn’t a dairy-free option available.
I was pleasantly surprised to find a small gluten-free section offering chocolate chip cookies and granola—limited, but likely appreciated by guests with dietary restrictions.
We grabbed a few individually wrapped granola packs on our way out and enjoyed them later as a convenient afternoon snack.
Overall, I was pleased with the complimentary breakfast, though I’m not sure I would consider it worth paying for out of pocket. Still, given the hotel’s secluded location and lack of nearby breakfast alternatives, dining at the hotel may be the most convenient and practical choice for most guests.
Positives & Negatives
Positives
The hotel grounds were absolutely beautiful. During my visit in June, lavender was in full bloom, filling the air with its signature fragrance and adding vibrant color to the landscape. Sculptures and artwork were thoughtfully placed throughout the garden, creating a peaceful and visually rich environment. Perched on a hilltop, the property offered sweeping views of the surrounding greenery, which made every moment outdoors feel serene and expansive. The weather during my stay was perfect, making it an ideal time to enjoy the outdoor infinity pool and soak in the beauty of the Provencal countryside.
The hotel is situated just outside the hilltop village of Gordes. With other popular Provençal towns such as Avignon, Roussillon, and L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue nearby, Les Bories & Spa serves as an excellent base for exploring the beauty and charm of southern Provence.
The modern farmhouse ambiance was a perfect tribute to the nearby Village des Bories. While the hotel’s exterior was built using traditional flat limestone techniques, the interior offered a sleek, modern design with high-tech comforts that enhanced our stay. The warm hospitality from the staff matched the elegance of the surroundings, creating a truly welcoming and memorable experience.
Negatives
While I didn’t encounter anything particularly negative during my stay, I do wish the receptionist had provided more information about the property. For example, during check-in, there was no mention of the tennis court or the gym, which would have been helpful to know at the start of our visit.
Summary
Les Bories & Spa is a beautiful five-star, wellness hotel located by the hilltop village of Gordes, which is arguably one of the most beautiful villages in France. Guests could easily travel to other neighboring villages such as Avignon, Roussillon, and L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, but if they would like to relax at the hotel, it would be the perfect place to decompress and rejuvenate. To start things off, the hotel had an indoor swimming pool in a lofty sunroom, but the highlight was the outdoor infinity swimming pool. It was surrounded by lush greenery, and because the flowers were in full bloom, the natural fragrance of lavender filled the air. The interior of the hotel was as gorgeous as the hotel grounds. Even though I stayed in one of the basic rooms, my bedroom was designed with charming modern farmhouse interiors, and the bathroom was very spacious and equipped with a standalone tub. Though the breakfast offerings at the hotel’s Michelin-listed restaurant were limited compared to other hotels, I still enjoyed everything about Les Bories & Spa. I highly recommend the hotel to anyone visiting the beautiful village of Gordes.
