While Provençal cities tend to get all of the attention, the southerly city of Montpellier is a prime destination for fans of sipping wine, strolling through quaint streets, and enjoying seaside breaks along the Mediterranean Coast alike, all for a significantly lower price point than more easterly towns—and Hôtel Richer de Belleval offers direct access to all of the above.
Since opening its doors in June 2021, Hôtel Richer de Belleval has captured the hearts of city-goers, beach dwellers, and wine-country-bound travelers alike, thanks to its ideal location in the heart of Montpellier’s city center. Formerly the home of Pierre Richer de Belleval, a French botanist, creator of the Jardin des Plantes, and the physician to the king, this private mansion-turned-accommodations roots go back to the late 1600s, though its modern-day restoration began in 2010.
Under the oversight of the Groupe Helenis and Groupe Château Pourcel, the mansion was turned into a luxurious hotel, boasting 20 accommodations, an interior courtyard, an outdoor terrace, and an on-site Michelin-starred restaurant. Shortly after, the hotel became a Relais & Châteaux property.
As for the accommodations, a number of room styles are available, ranging from the more modest Classic and Superior Rooms to the more lavish Junior and Pierre Suites. For private balconies and separate seating areas fit for a king, spring for the latter.
In addition to its stunning architecture, breathtaking artwork, and no shortage of places to catch a breath of fresh air, the hotel is also home to the Michelin-starred restaurant Jardin des Sens, spearheaded by the renowned French chefs—and brothers—Jacques and Laurent Pourcel. The meticulously crafted tasting menu features seasonal fare and terroir-reflective ingredients sourced from around the region—and as the name implies, an all-encompassing sensorial experience awaits. More casual dining, also overseen by the Pourcel brothers, is available at the hotel’s all-day bistro, La Canorgue.
Although the hotel’s magnificent accommodations and expansive on-site lounging areas will make it hard to leave, one of the hotel’s most exciting key features is its beautiful location, situated on Place de la Canorgue. Additionally, the hotel’s walkable distance from the high-speed train station makes accessing smaller villages and wine country easier than ever, rendering Hôtel Richer de Belleval an even better place to call home base, amenities, and luxury aside.
Top Takeaways
Location: Montpellier, France
Star-Rating: Five-star
The Vibe: A opulent, palace-like haven within walking distance of the city’s key tourist attractions, best bars, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel? No shortage of places to enjoy a breath of fresh air. The breathtaking interior al-fresco courtyard offers a quiet reprieve from the hustle of the city, while the terrace out front is ideal for people-watching.
Food + Drink: In addition to the hotel’s all-day bistro, La Canorgue, Hotel Richer de Belleval is home to the one Michelin-starred restaurant, Jardin de Sens. Spearheaded by famed chef (and identical twin) brothers Jacques and Laurent Pourcel, this terroir-focused restaurant offers an all-encompassing sensory overload, as promised by the establishment’s name.
Any Neighborhood Recs? The Arc de Triomphe and Promenade du Peyrou are just steps away, and the bustling Place de la Comédie is just seven minutes on foot. Enjoy some of the city’s best pastries at Dreams and Bread (Des Rêves et du Pain), as well as a glass (or a few) of wine at one of the most fun wine bars in the city, Les Canons.
Amenities: Rooms with balconies, sitting areas, and desks, in-room coffee machines, large-screen TVs, air conditioning, Diptyque toiletries, free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, on-site terraces and restaurant, 24-hour front desk, concierge, and breakfast served indoors / outdoors.
What’s Nearby? Montpellier offers a melting pot of exciting wine bars, restaurants, and bistros, plus the Mediterranean beaches are accessible by public tram/bus.
Rooms: There are 20 rooms in total, denoted by seven types: Classic Room, Superior Room, Executive Room, Historic Execute Room, Junior Suite, Junior Suite with Balcony, and Pierre Suite.
Pricing: Rates start at $282 – $825 a night.
Closest Airport: Airport Montpellier – Méditerranée (20-minute drive) or a 12-minute walk to the Montpellier Saint Roch train station.
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