If you are going to Aix-en-Provence and want to stay in an historic, luxury boutique hotel, La Maison d’Aix, a meticulously restored private mansion with only four rooms, is one of the most atmospheric addresses in town. Located in the heart of the historical district of Mazarin, it is close to the famous Fontaine des Quatre Dauphins built in 1667 and the Cours Mirabeau.
The restoration of the private mansion, in which the spirit of the enigmatic Henriette Reboul still drifts, is a challenge which architect Laura Juhen and Louis Mariotti undertook during three years of renovation. A famous antique dealer, who was also a priestess of Love, and to whom history attributes famous lovers and mistresses, Ms. Reboul had fascinated the teenage Laura, and it is by a wonderful fate that she pays tribute to this beautiful and free woman.
The architect Laura Juhen engaged the Compagnons de France to transform this historic residence into luxurious guest suites, all the while preserving the sensual world of Ms. Reboul. Joiners, cabinetmakers, painters, etc. all worked passionately on this house. The residence is as beautiful in the daytime, as it is enchanting at night. Everything has been made to specifications — from the Jerusalem stone floor in the winter garden, the heavy teak wood from Java, to the Corset chairs. The owners combine the precision of modern design with traditional know-how. The stone wall from the 16th century, restored to its original state, blends with the mosaic of a luxuriously purified Spa. Stone tubs, created for the Maison d’Aix are reflected in Venetian mirrors, the Red Parlour shelters fine Syrian inlaid work with figurines by Manga and an authentic portrait of Mao eyes a baroque fresco up and down.
The four rooms are The Corset, Henriette’s Bedroom, The Secret Garden, and Love Suite, and each has its own special character. The largest room is the Love Suite (68 square metres), which is adorned with a parlour and a sofa bed, a teak desk and a dressing room. A fur-lined armchair and a Corset chair add to custom-made furniture. You have a splendid view on Sainte Victoire from the terrace which overlooks the gardens. Breakfast can be served on the terrace or in the ground floor winter garden.
If you prefer not to stay in your room, spend time in the elegant Red Parlour, which will transport you to a bygone age. To relax, head down to the Spa, whose private swimming pool and authentic hammam (Turkish bath) lie under age-old arches.
The Maison d’Aix gives an exceptional welcome for its guests in the purest French tradition, including:
– «Great Tradition» Breakfast.
– Unlimited Café Nespresso, tea and mineral water.
– The Secret Spa with swimming pool/Jacuzzi, traditional hammam and relaxation room.
– The Red Parlour with giant flat screen TV, DVD player and game console on demand. Availability of books, magazines, DVDs and CDs.
– Rooms completely equipped with a Bose System with iPod docks.
– Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.
Depending upon the season, room rates for 2011 are 270 EUR to 520 EUR per night (for the rooms); 500 EUR to 950 EUR per night for the Love Suite.
La Maison d’Aix
25, rue du 4-Septembre
Aix-en-Provence, France
+33 4 42 53 78 95
Email the hotel to inquire about a booking.
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