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Nestled in the serene countryside of Provence in southern France, the village of Cotignac boasts a rich tapestry of tales. From historical narratives of monarchs grappling with fertility issues to reported religious visions and encounters with Hollywood celebrities and music icons, this charming village nestled under a towering limestone cliff has witnessed a diverse array of events.
In 1660, King Louis XIV and his mother, Anne of Austria, undertook a pilgrimage to the Notre Dame de Grâces church in Cotignac to express gratitude to the Virgin Mary for the king’s miraculous birth. Serving as a prominent site for Catholic pilgrimages due to purported visions of all three members of the Holy Family, Cotignac attracts approximately 150,000 pilgrims annually.
Apart from its religious significance, Cotignac has been a draw for Hollywood stars and renowned musicians for many years. The likes of George and Amal Clooney reside nearby, with George known to frequent a local baker for his morning pastries. Additionally, Brad Pitt reportedly has a vineyard dispute with ex-wife Angelina Jolie in the vicinity.
Renowned French singer-songwriter Joe Dassin recorded music at Studio Miraval nearby before establishing his residence in Cotignac, where he passed away at a young age. The village’s Lou Calen hotel, which opened in 1971, found itself in a prime spot to accommodate and entertain recording artists from around the globe, thanks to its proximity to Chateau Miraval’s famed recording studio.
After lying dormant for two decades, the hotel was revitalized by Canadian entrepreneur Graham Porter, who envisioned transforming it into a lavish retreat blending eco-luxury with a serene ambiance. Guests at Lou Calen can revel in unique experiences, from wandering through flower-filled pathways to savoring artisanal beers from the hotel’s microbrewery.
The culinary experience at Lou Calen is equally exceptional, with the Secret Garden restaurant helmed by innovative chef Benoit Witz, recognized with a prestigious Green Michelin Star for his sustainable practices and authentic dishes crafted from locally sourced seasonal ingredients.
Visitors can explore the village’s rich history with American guide John Peck, delving into ancient olive presses, troglodyte dwellings, and legendary sites where apparitions and visions were reported. The village also houses a remarkable pocket museum showcasing historical artifacts, from Napoleonic-era relics to reminders of World War II.
Lou Calen offers a tranquil escape where guests are encouraged to engage in communal activities, enjoy local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of Provence. With its enchanting allure and storied past, Cotignac remains a captivating destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
For those looking to visit this idyllic retreat, rooms at the Lou Calen hotel in Cotignac, Provence, start at approximately £175 per night. Travelers can fly to Nice or Marseille from various UK airports or opt for rail connections to Aix-en-Provence or Avignon for convenient access to this enchanting village.