The magic of Christmas takes on a special dimension in Provence, where centuries-old traditions blend harmoniously with the picturesque landscapes of the South of France. In the heart of this enchanting region, the Hôtel Crillon le Brave stands like a jewel, offering a unique experience to celebrate the festive season. Nestled against the majestic Mont Ventoux, this 5-star establishment in the village of Crillon le Brave offers an exceptional setting for an authentic and unforgettable Provencal Christmas with the whole family.
This year, Crillon le Brave invites you to immerse yourself in the enchantment of the festive season with its exclusive offers, including a refined Christmas menu, a festive brunch and enchanted decorations that will delight young and old alike. Whether you’re in search of Provencal traditions or simply looking for a peaceful haven to recharge your family batteries, Crillon le Brave is the ideal destination for a Christmas in Provence.
Christmas in Provence: Traditions and a unique atmosphere
Christmas traditions in Provence
Provence is rich in Christmas traditions, which continue year after year, creating a unique and warm atmosphere. One of these traditions is the famous 13 desserts, a symbol of Provençal abundance and generosity. This tradition, which dates back to the 19th century, consists of offering thirteen different desserts after the New Year’s Eve meal, in reference to Christ and his twelve apostles.
Santons, small hand-painted clay figurines, are another emblematic element of Provencal Christmas. Representing various characters from everyday life, santons are used to create the magnificent Provencal crib, a veritable miniature work of art. The word santon comes from the Provençal word soutoun, meaning “little saint”. The tradition is to leave the santons in the crib until Candlemas, which is celebrated by eating crepes. In Crillon le Brave, you can admire these traditional creations, carefully arranged to recreate the authentic atmosphere of a Provencal village.
Christmas markets, meanwhile, enliven the squares of the surrounding villages, offering an immersive experience in the local culture. These markets are the perfect opportunity to discover local artisans and taste the region’s culinary specialties.
Finally, just a few days after Christmas, it’s customary in France, and more specifically in Provence, to eat gâteau des rois (a brioche scented with orange blossom) on Epiphany, to celebrate the arrival of the Magi in the village.
The magic of Provence in winter
Winter in Provence reveals a little-known facet of this region often associated with summer. The landscapes take on a serene beauty, with sleepy vineyards and hilltop villages that seem frozen in time, such as Les Baux de Provence. Crillon le Brave, situated in the heart of this enchanting setting, offers breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and the surrounding hills, creating an idyllic setting for the festive season.
Crillon-le-Brave offers for an exceptional Christmas
To celebrate Christmas in style, Hotel Crillon le Brave has created special offers that will delight gourmet taste buds and create unforgettable memories with your children.
Christmas dinner
Christmas Eve at Crillon le Brave is a veritable gastronomic feast. Chef Thomas Lesage has created an exceptional menu featuring Provencal flavors and local produce.
On the menu: cauliflower risotto with Jerusalem artichoke chips and bay leaf oil, followed by Mediterranean red mullet stuffed with walnuts. The main course, served at the table, a Mazan capon, is served with a Poulette sauce and potatoes in two textures. The meal ends on a high note with a Ventoux goat’s cheese and a blackcurrant Mont Blanc dessert.
This exceptional five-course dinner takes place in the warm, festive setting of the La Table du Ventoux restaurant, where the Christmas atmosphere is palpable thanks to the carefully chosen decorations.
Christmas brunch
To prolong the festivities, Crillon le Brave offers a sumptuous and gourmet Christmas brunch on December 25. This generous buffet offers a wide choice of sweet and savory dishes, from homemade viennoiseries to seafood and traditional hot dishes. Guests can enjoy sea bream carpaccio with Aubignan citrus, langoustines and oysters, or Mazan capon stuffed with Ardèche chestnuts.
Chef Thomas Lesage and his team of pastry chefs will also be serving their Christmas log. This log, scented with citrus, thyme and spelt, is a true tribute to the flavors of Provence and the richness of its terroir. It embodies the holiday spirit while celebrating family traditions and local gastronomy.
Brunch is the perfect opportunity to get together with family and friends in a relaxed, convivial atmosphere, while enjoying the breathtaking view of Mont Ventoux.
Atmosphere, entertainment and decorations
During the festive season, Hôtel Crillon le Brave is adorned in its most exquisite décor. Elegant and warm touches create a cosy, festive ambiance throughout the hotel. A majestic Christmas tree takes pride of place in the bar, where guests are invited to gather for a gourmet snack or an infusion by the fire, accompanied by board games.
For families, special events are planned, such as a visit from Santa Claus on December 24, who will amaze children with his big white beard, as well as decorating gingerbread with Provencal honey and coloring santons.
Other activities include a Ventoux wine and cheese tasting workshop, and a masterclass with the chef entitled “Piquer puis déguster un fromage du Ventoux aux truffes” (“Prick and taste a Ventoux cheese with truffles”).
What to do around Crillon-le-Brave at Christmas?
The area around Crillon-le-Brave is packed with activities and discoveries over the Christmas period.
Local activities
Christmas markets in neighboring villages are a must if you want to soak up the festive spirit of Provence. A Christmas market is the perfect opportunity to find original gifts made by local artisans, santons for your nativity scene, or to sample local specialties such as nougat or calissons.
For nature lovers, walks in the surrounding vineyards or an excursion to Mont Ventoux offer a unique winter experience. The hotel even offers a guided walk to the Col de la Madeleine on December 24, with breathtaking views and a hot spiced punch to warm you up.
Moments of relaxation
For those seeking relaxation, the Spa des Écuries at Crillon le Brave offers a wellness interlude. Enjoy a relaxing massage or facial to prepare for the festivities or unwind afterwards.
The hotel also offers a tennis court, padel court and electric bikes for the sporty guests.
Crillon le Brave offers an exceptional setting for an authentic and memorable Christmas in Provence. Combining refined gastronomy, warm ambience and pastoral tradition, the hotel offers a complete experience to celebrate the festive season. Whether you want to immerse yourself in local traditions, enjoy the winter landscapes of the Luberon, or simply relax in luxurious surroundings, Crillon le Brave will meet all of your expectations.
Don’t wait any longer to book your Christmas stay at Crillon le Brave and experience the magic of the festive season in Provence in an exceptional setting.
