Domaine de Verchant is Montpellier’s only five-star hotel and upon approach to the hotel’s gated driveway, you get a hint of how distinctive this place is. Easily accessible from the UK and Europe due to the close proximity to Montpellier Airport, Domaine de Verchant is the ideal long-weekend getaway.
Set amongst many acres of countryside and vineyards in historical Montpellier, a city full of medieval charm and culture, Domaine de Verchant boasts a lot of space considering they harbour only 27 rooms. But the traditional building is sensibly accompanied by new builds consisting of a luxury spa, 2 restaurants, 2 bars and 3 swimming pools.
Further down the coast from the popular Cote d’Azur, Montpellier is often overlooked as a holiday destination by those who head for the glamour of Cannes & Monaco. But Montpellier has much more. Our guide walked us through some incredible historical sites, including Jardin des Plantes de Montpellier, Frances oldest botanical garden, the 14th-century Saint Pierre Cathedral plus we visited a former Jewish bath located underground with natural water, where one would fully submerge (including head) to cleanse. The Musee Fabre de Montpellier has well-curated artworks including some notable contemporary collections, well worth a visit before hitting the shops for some retail therapy.
The grounds of Domaine de Verchant allow for numerous strolls and include a high-end restaurant – Verchant, where you will enjoy a plethora of fine dining options from Chef Damien Cousseau, as well as a huge selection of wines – the Verchant cellar boasts over 10,000 wines! La Plage is a hipper semi-outdoor venue, with a sexy infinity pool overlooking the vines, live music, DJ’s, tapas and great cocktails. Expect a relatively young and mixed crowd, the odd celebrity and a very relaxed and positive atmosphere.
There are 5 types of rooms and suites, apartments plus The Villa Sarnelly, a private mansion within the grounds. The service is impeccable at Domaine de Verchant and we felt that the pace of living had slowed down some, so it’s the ideal place to escape and put your feet up by the pool, with your every need catered for. Tip – check out the wine cellar and look out for wine-tasting events, as Domaine de Verchant is a producer of some excellent wines.
Words & Photography by Ian Cole for Client Voyage
Domaine de Verchant
1 Boulevard Philippe Lamour 34170
Castelnau Le Lez, Montpellier, France
As featured in Client Style #20
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