Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is an old mountain village, and its seclusion makes it a popular choice for travelers looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of France's major cities. La Bouscatière is a beautiful embodiment of the ideal bucolic retreat. It is a hotel boasting old architecture similar to its medieval neighborhood, with lush greenery and venerable trees providing color and shade to the scenery.

Before it became a guesthouse and hotel, La Bouscatière was originally a workshop for artisans in the 18th century. It contained an oil mill and a forge, as well as a small garden tended by its owner, Madame Buron. The name La Bouscatière is actually derived from what the Madame named her garden, which in turn was a regional term for a storage place for wood. Later in the 19th century, the workshop became the property of Feraud Aîné, who was Moustiers-Sainte-Marie's last master potter. Another historic aspect of the property is the old chapel, which has since been converted into guest lodgings. It was a small place of prayer for penitents traveling to or from the nearby Notre Dame de Beauvoir.

The decision to open La Bouscatière as a hotel was influenced by Tonia Peyrot, a famous interior designer who also worked on Alain Ducasse's La Bastide De Moustiers. The property itself was purchased in 2012, though its transformation and renovation wouldn't be finished until 2021.

Design and Architecture

La Bouscatière takes advantage of its beautiful, well-preserved architecture and integrates it into the hotel's overall design, creating a blend of modern and traditional aesthetics. The facade and inner areas of the property retain the original 18th-century Provençal stone façade, made using the rocks and stones quarried from the surrounding mountains. As homage to La Bouscatière's original incarnation as a workshop, the owners decorated the facade with a restored bouquet of Saint-Éloi. The emblem symbolizes the patron saint of workers who use hammers, including smiths, metallurgists, and farriers.

The Italian-style courtyard may seem cluttered, but this lived-in atmosphere contributes to the comfort and warmth guests experience while staying at La Bouscatière. Aside from the covered patio, the outdoor area also has a small garden-like area with a seasonal infinity pool.

As for its interiors, guest lodgings such as the Roman Room and Jade Suite integrated the old architecture as part of the overall design. Exposed timbers are complemented by similarly colored antique furniture and fixtures. The stylish wall decor and art, along with glossy tiles and colorful carpets, contribute to the air of elegance each suite exudes. And then there are the individual themes that are sure to appeal to each guest's personal tastes; the Jade Suite, for example, has elements of a Nepalese temple, while the Roman Room is adorned with Colonial-style treasures and souvenirs.

Guests are encouraged to start their day with La Bouscatière's continental breakfasts, served on the terrace, and include refreshing juice and local freshly baked pastries. Aside from the breakfast meal, the hotel's kitchen is also available for use. Try your hand at preparing traditional regional recipes after shopping for groceries at the local market.

The restaurants of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie have also partnered with La Bouscatière, so you can support local businesses while dining on amazing delicacies during your holiday. The menu of Le Couvert offers bold and inventive takes on traditional French cuisine, as well as sweet and comforting snacks and pastries. Le Relais, on the other hand, boasts a proud fusion of French, Mediterranean, and Provençal cuisine prepared in a touching homemade style. For Le Chardon-Marie, they go against the grain with their bistronomique approach, using artisanal techniques to prepare classic French dishes. Last but not least is Café Gourmandises, a terrace cafe with sinfully sumptuous pastries and teas that you can enjoy while admiring the breathtaking valley views.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

The beautiful mountainous countryside of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is a fantastic place for both outdoor enthusiasts and culture connoisseurs. The concierge and partners of La Bouscatière would be glad to assist you if you're looking for outdoor excursions and cultural trips. Verdon Voyages is a local travel agency that can arrange adventures such as paragliding, mountain climbing, and horse riding. Over at the neighboring commune of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, travelers can visit the medieval town to admire the lake and mountain scenery, or book a romantic lake cruise and picnic on the banks. Another small commune in the area is *Villecroze , a quaint mountain village much like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, and known for its medieval neighborhood and troglodyte homes, which are built into the area's cliffs and caves.

Though occasional, La Bouscatière also hosts community events such as dinners and small concerts, so feel free to inquire with the owner if any special event will take place during your visit.

Other Celebrations

Since La Bouscatière hosts community gatherings, it's worth inquiring if they would be glad to help you celebrate a birthday or anniversary at the hotel. They may be able to prepare an intimate private dinner in the garden, along with a referral to their partner restaurants for catering.