I organized my whole honeymoon in the South of France around this "Heaven on Earth" hotel—here's what my stay was like.

      Welcome to Fashion's Finest Stays, a travel series where we offer our fashion-editor perspective on the hospitality industry. Here, you'll receive exclusive insider insights into the globe's most prestigious hotels and resorts, revealing every detail you need to know before making a reservation. When organizing a honeymoon, most newlyweds begin with a broad vision of cities they wish to explore and activities they desire to undertake. Should it be a beach or the mountains? An adventurous itinerary, or pure relaxation? I had already chosen a hotel—a luxurious, extravagant "Marie Antoinette would love this" kind of place. Although I was unfamiliar with the area (this would be my first visit to the South of France), I had been captivated by the historic cliffside palace ever since I had lunch with Natacha Bonjout, a French pharmacist and cosmetic chemist, to discuss her award-winning skincare line. I mentioned that I had recently tied the knot and was looking to plan a summer honeymoon, and without hesitation, she suggested I stay there. She pulled up her Instagram, and there it was: Airelles Gordes, La Bastide—the elegant, intimate 16th-century residence showcased in all its glory. Later, I brought it up to a travel advisor, who firmly agreed, labeling it "heaven on Earth" and "one of the finest hotels in all of France." Just like that, we were set for our honeymoon in Provence.

      It's important to note that Airelles isn't the type of hotel you book spontaneously unless you're an heiress or perhaps a cast member from The White Lotus (the property at Saint-Tropez, Château de La Messardière, is confirmed for season 4). It represents the pinnacle of luxury, which is why it took a special occasion like my honeymoon to justify the expense. However, a month later, I don't regret it one bit. Here are all the reasons why it's worth securing a booking, and why I'm already dreaming of returning.

      Gordes is recognized as one of the most stunning villages in the Luberon, with the five-star Airelles perched atop it. It's perhaps more accurate to describe the property as being embedded within the cliffs themselves. The entrance is at street level, yet the interior presents a vertical maze of stone buildings, terrace gardens, and winding staircases. Originally a private manor in the 16th century, it underwent a complete restoration in 2015 with the assistance of 150 local artisans to honor its rich heritage. Leading this effort was architect and interior designer Christophe Tollemer, who also sourced authentic antique furnishings and over 2000 pieces of period art. Consequently, each room has a unique design. The hotel features 40 rooms and suites, all with views overlooking the village or the Luberon valley. I stayed in the Deluxe Village Bedroom, which is actually on the lower end of the price spectrum (I preferred to allocate more of my budget toward dining and activities), but it remains one of the most luxurious spaces I've ever occupied. Despite its historical woodwork and rare antiques, including an 18th-century writing desk, it offers all the modern amenities of a high-end hotel, featuring a marble-finished bathroom, a Dyson hair dryer, Jardins Baulieu toiletries, and a fully stocked complimentary minibar.

      From the moment you enter the airy lobby, you're treated like royalty—fitting for one of the 33 hotels in the region that holds Palace status granted by the French government. The staff, impeccably dressed in period-style uniforms, seem to know precisely what you desire before you even realize it, whether it's a refreshing cocktail, garment pressing, or recommendations for exploring nearby villages. Upon check-in, a tote bag, straw hat, and custom-embroidered pajamas awaited my husband and me in our room, and each evening, we returned to delightful surprises, including a sunglasses case, toiletry bag, and eye mask. At checkout, a staff member guided us to the terrace for a quick Polaroid photo to remember our time there (as if I could ever forget such luxury) and escorted us to our rental car, where chilled bottles of water, Ladurée macarons, and personalized luggage tags rested on the console. These thoughtful touches set Airelles apart from other five-star experiences. It truly makes you feel like nobility while also at ease.

      The property includes three pools: a designated kids' pool, an indoor pool at the spa, and the iconic terrace pool situated in the lush hilltop gardens overlooking the Luberon. The latter is perhaps the most tranquil spot I've ever relaxed in. All you can hear is the gentle lapping of water, the rustling of olive trees overhead, and the occasional server offering you a glass of rosé. After visiting the lavender fields, shopping at local markets, or wandering through nearby villages, this is the only place you'll want to be.

      A few levels down from the pool is the serene underground spa