Le Mas de l'Amarine

This artsy oasis has just five rooms and a superb restaurant in a beautifully refurbished farmhouse near St. Remy-de-Provence.

• The impressive wine list of little-known regional vineyards and rare international vintages
• The lily pond at the far end of the garden adorned with colorful sculpted fountains
• Original themed brunches and summer Jazz concerts in the garden

Off a narrow leafy road, this artfully restored, stone farmhouse (once the home of French painter Roger Bezombes) is both a small hotel and restaurant. It's owned and run by the artistic and ever-gracious maîtresse de maison, Alice Monnier, and her husband, the talented chef Bertrand Coloma. The eye-catching 1950s retro living room—think colorful mosaic floors and a suspended coral-like sculpture—is just the introduction to the whimsical décor. Each of the 3 rooms and 2 suites (with outdoor terraces) are decorated in a contemporary mix of vibrant hues and contrasting textures.

Alice, whose artistic touches range from designing the curvy tables on the dining terrace to the choice of the unusual Belgian porcelain, oversees every detail. There's a lovely pool and pétanque court, and you'll want to linger in the sculpture-lined courtyard for a drink before dinner.

The restaurant features a daily changing menu with exquisitely prepared fresh market-driven dishes by Bertrand (formerly the chef at Domaine de Murtoli in Corsica) that evolve with seasonal produce at hand. One typical summer menu included stuffed sardines with a red pepper capponata, followed by pork chops served with white asparagus and gnocchi, and divine roast figs topped with almonds and homemade vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Couples and families who are looking for a small, personal hotel with an artistic vibe in a great location for exploring the Lubéron region. Foodie, art and design enthusiasts will be happy here.