As beautiful hotels go, I don’t think we’ve found many quite as pretty as the Domaine de Raba in Talence, France. This is a stunning destination hotel near Bordeaux which somehow manages to combine wellness with glorious opulence. We were visiting as a family of three but I imagine it’s also the perfect place for a couples retreat. Read this Domaine de Raba review to discover why you should add it to you French itinerary.
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List of Contents
Design of the Domaine de Raba
Let’s start with the main reason we chose to stay at the Domain de Raba. How it looks. Yes, that may sound slightly superficial but sometimes it’s nice to be wowed every time you turn a corner. The main, honey stoned building with vines bordering its front welcomes you to the hotel putting you at ease the moment you arrive.
No design detail has been forgotten, walkways offer up comfy places to sit and enjoy a drink, check in is next to the onsite shop selling local delicacies and design features spotted around the hotel. The cosy complex is set around a lake where you can walk under the shade of majestic oak trees.
You’ll find safari style canvas lodges hidden away amongst the greenery and a sweet little wellness area which is the perfect place to relax after a day exploring nearby Bordeaux.
Rooms at the Domaine de Raba
We were staying in the main hotel in a stunning pastel treat of a room. The main double bed was covered in luxurious bedding and we had a smaller separate bed for Piper. Our charmingly named Le Pigeon room offered views across the forest and the pretty hanging plants bought nature inside.
The bathroom was spotlessly clean with plenty of space. Whilst there’s no bath the two shower heads make for an interesting addition!
Book your room at the Domaine de Raba
Eating at Domaine de Raba
Breakfast is taken in the main Chateaux with tables spilling outside to the pond view restaurant. It’s as luxurious as the rest of the hotel with all the fresh pastry and baked goods you can imagine. Juices, fruit salad and super strong coffee will be delivered straight to your table. This is the place to enjoy a lazy start to your day rather than a rush to refuel.
If you would rather you can order breakfast direct to your bedroom or safari lodge. It is currently €20 per person.
Les Petits Caprices
The main restaurant is Les Petits Caprices, a quirky, friendly, vibrant space serving tapas style smaller plates for sharing and larger plates inspired by dishes from all around the world. If you’re visiting with kids they also have a great selection of pizzas.
Contre-Jour
Loosely based on an English Bar, Contre-Jour is a great place to get a pre or post dinner cocktail. The design is all dark colours, brave artwork, luxurious sofas and brave artwork. You can also take your drinks to the outdoor terrace balcony to enjoy the balmy French evenings.
Facilities at Domaine de Raba
The pool
An indoor pool is a rare treat at a hotel near Bordeaux, it’s perfect for when the weather is not so good. Whilst it is very compact, there’s enough space to splash about and even a couple of cushions to relax on around the pool after your swim.
The Wellness Space
Another great feature of this luxury hotel is its nature based spa. Offering indulgent treatments overlooking the natural surrounds, this is the place to let your stresses melt away and fully recharge.
A massage in the outdoor cabanas is an absolute must do. You’ll find spa ready gowns and slippers in your room.
The Cinema
Kids will love the 30 seat cinema area at Domaine de Raba. If you want the space to yourself you can book it for a private screening of your choice. It even has its very own popcorn machine.
Location of this hotel near Bordeaux
The location of this hotel is really the only part we didn’t love. Located in the small town of Talence about twenty minutes drive from Bordeaux it’s a little hard to find. The area feels industrial rather than the relaxing haven you would expect. There’s not much to do within walking distance but you probably wont want to leave the hotel anyway. If you do want to get out exploring then head into Bordeaux or one of the nearby beaches.
Final thoughts on this Domaine de Raba Review
We loved our stay at Domaine de Raba and would absolutely return if we were looking for a hotel near Bordeaux. Whilst it’s not particularly geared to family travellers they accommodate kids well. We loved the design features and the sense of luxury even though the location felt a bit strange.
You can read more Domaine de Raba reviews over on Tripadvisor. Or visit their official website here.
Our visit to Domaine de Raba was part of our French road trip. You can read more about our two weeks in France to discover where else we stayed.