THE FACTS ABOUT FOUR SEASONS RESORT PROVENCE AT TERRE BLANCHE

France

The Four Seasons Resort Provence, in the wooded hills behind Cannes, is a sprawling new complex with three restaurants, two 18-hole golf courses, tennis courts, a huge infinity pool and a beauty spa. The attraction? A sure-fire, hassle-free experience of the Côte d'Azur for everyone from seasoned golfers to young couples with kids. Plush comfort prevails in this neo-Provençal village with its 115 near-identical suites, each a miniature villa with a red-tiled roof and terrace. The decor is unadventurous but reliably luxurious, and at least the fragrant L'Occitane products in the bathroom remind you that wild-lavender fields are just a stone's throw away. Highlights include the lakes and oak-lined paths designed by Dave Thomas, the golf academy and snazzy clubhouse, a mini-spa with a wide range of ESPA treatments and holistic massages, and truly professional, friendly staff. Chef Philippe Jourdin (Tour d'Argent, Moulin de Mougins) heads the gastronomic restaurant and the contemporary Provençal menu is superb: duck foie gras in Muscat and fresh-fruit chutney; wild sea bass in a hazelnut crust; roasted pear in caramel sauce with Sichuan-pepper ice cream. WHEN TO GO May-September, to take advantage of the inviting pool WHICH ROOM TO BOOK Suite 1501, for the view of neighbouring medieval villages CONTACT Four Seasons Resort Provence at Terre Blanche, Domaine de Terre Blanche, Tourrettes, Var, France (00 33 4 94 39 90 00; fax: 94 39 90 01; www.fourseasons.com/provence). Suites from euro 270; suite 1501 from euro 950