There’s something about the village of Marsanne that I fell utterly in love with the first time we visited, over a year ago. We arrived at 11pm in the dark, stayed just one night and left the next morning after breakfast but I knew it was somewhere I wanted to spend more time. When we were planning our “mini-moon” around the South of France it was a given that we would spend at least one more night at Le Clos Marquise, with its wonderful owner Sylvie. If I could adopt Sylvie I would, she’s like a long lost French aunt who is not only an excellent host but a wonderful chef, too. When we first visited, Le Clos Marquise had only been open a month, now its four rooms are booked up well in advance. It’s such a special place, I know we will return again.
On this occasion we stayed four nights and ventured beyond the beautiful walled gardens. In the centre of the village is a wonderful little restaurant, hotel and shop called L’Atelier à Marsanne. At first I was confused, should I order lunch or scour through all the amazing homeware pieces in the shop. Dan was there to help me see sense, so we sat down and ate first. I ordered the most incredible (and huge) plate of scallops tartare with fresh nectarine. I don’t think I’ve ever eaten so many scallops in one go, it was delicious. After lunch Dan and I looked through the Jars ceramics I’d had my eye on in the shop and picked out a few pieces for us and a few to take home for friends. I’ve been using the bowls and mugs we bought nearly everyday since we got back.
Can’t wait til our next visit to Marsanne.
Accommodation
Le Clos Marquise | L’Atelier à Marsanne
Food & Drink
L’Atelier à Marsanne | Le Globe | Les Aubergistes