Press Release
LA BELLE COUR at Céreste re-opens
La Belle Cour, a former 18th century coaching inn located at an equal distance (20 km) from Apt, Manosque and Forcalquier, changed hands on the 30 January 2018. Its four suites have now been re-opened following major renovations. Each one is decorated differently according to a new original historical and cultural theme.
The former inn is located at the heart of the village, a stone’s throw from the partially ruined medieval castle.
The building looks out onto a paved courtyard with large covered areas that are shaded from the sun.
A Provençale fountain in the middle of the courtyard provides a refreshing feature in the summer.
17th century stone vaults on the ground floor open on to the main street, and house the Scaramouche ice-cream parlour, renowned in Provence-Luberon region.
La Belle Cour is steeped in history, making it a dream destination for travellers seeking history and romance.
The house played a major role in a number of fascinating episodes between the 17th century and the Second World War and its legend lives on today.
For example, its vaults provided sanctuary for English and American airmen, who were protected by resistance fighters, having parachuted in during World War II (1939-1945).
The village of Céreste played a central role in the underground network headed up by the famous poet and resistance fighter, René Char, also known as “Capitaine Alexandre”. He managed a “parachute landing” section, which was a key asset during the Allied invasion of Provence in 1944.
La Belle Cour’s four suites and rooms have been decorated and furnished with authentic items illustrating original themes that bring the house’s four centuries of history back to life:
Scaramouche room recalls 18th century commedia dell’arte
Relais de poste suite evokes back to the 18th century coaching inn
Royaume de Patagonie suite is named after the fantastic saga of Antoine de Tounens, who assumed the title of King of Araucanía and Patagonia in Argentina from 1860 to 1862
René Char suite is steeped in surrealist poetry and the story of the resistance in World War II
Bicycles are available for guests to borrow. The Tour du Luberon cycling route is a reasonably flat 236-kilometre circuit, mostly along cycle paths or protected bike lanes.
La Belle Cour is also available for private hire for family and professional events. The large shady loggias along the sides of the courtyard can comfortably accommodate up to 120 standing guests at a drinks reception, protecting them from the sun (or rain).
Welcome to La Belle Cour!
Write to us at contact@labellecour.fr
Visit our website www.labellecour.fr