In Montpellier, you wouldn't necessarily expect to find a hotel of this calibre just steps from Place de la Canourgue. And yet: the Hôtel Richer de Belleval, housed in a 17th-century mansion listed as a historic monument, has established itself in just a few years as one of the most singular addresses in the south of France.
A listed mansion, restored with rigour
Acquired in 2010, the building underwent major works led by architect Philippe Prost, a specialist in restoring historic monuments who is also behind the renovation of the Hôtel de la Monnaie in Paris. The result: 2,000 square metres where original plasterwork, gilding and mouldings engage in dialogue with contemporary interventions, neither ever overshadowing the other. The vaulted salons and period frescoes bear witness to a past shaped by Montpellier's great families, while the 15 rooms and 5 suites, spread over two floors, mix Christian Lacroix carpets with 18th-century crystal chandeliers.
Le Jardin des Sens, the Pourcel brothers' signature
What truly sets the establishment apart is its table. The gourmet restaurant Le Jardin des Sens, run by brothers Jacques and Laurent Pourcel, emblematic figures of French gastronomy, offers ten- or fifteen-course tasting menus served across three vaulted, fresco-ceilinged rooms. An experience designed as a restaurant within a hotel rather than a mere hotel restaurant. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the bistro La Canourgue, set in the former wedding hall, serves cuisine inspired by the two brothers' travels, enjoyed on the patio or terrace.
An ideal location in the Écusson
Located in the heart of the Écusson, Montpellier's historic quarter, the hotel places guests just minutes on foot from the Musée Fabre, Place de la Comédie and the Promenade du Peyrou. The concierge service is happy to arrange private visits or getaways to the coast and surrounding vineyards.
A Relais & Châteaux hotel-restaurant
Membership in the Relais & Châteaux network confirms the establishment's positioning: a place designed for discerning travellers, attuned as much to the history within its walls as to the quality on the plate. The hotel also maintains a close relationship with the neighbouring Opéra Comédie, of which it is a historic patron, occasionally offering lyrical evenings that combine musical emotion with fine dining.
Why stay here
The Hôtel Richer de Belleval appeals to those who want to discover Montpellier beyond its much-photographed contemporary architecture: here, the city tells its story through its oldest stones, elevated by an exacting standard of gastronomy and decor rarely matched in the region.
Passionate about travel and urban discoveries, I create guides to help travelers organize their getaways in the most beautiful cities in Europe and elsewhere. Through City Travelers, I share itineraries, practical tips and tour ideas to take full advantage of each destination, for a weekend or a longer stay.
