WHAT’S NEW IN FRANCE | SUMMER 2026
As summer reaches its peak, the French art de vivre continues to reinvent itself through bold culinary concepts, heritage transformations, and expanded boutique getaways.
From a historic château overlooking the Sancerre to a creative hideaway in Provence, a quintessential Parisian bistrot and an unexpected ice cream pop-up in the Marais, France continues to unveil inspiring new destinations and culinary experiences. Here’s what’s new this season.
1. LE HAMEAU DES BAUX | 10 NEW ROOMS & SUITES IN THE ALPILLES
A creative haven in the heart of Provence
Nestled among olive groves in the heart of Provence, Le Hameau des Baux unveils La Villa, a new extension introducing ten additional rooms and suites, bringing the property to 31 keys. Conceived in the spirit of the original hamlet, the new accommodations offer generous spaces opening onto nature and sweeping views over the Alpilles.
Awarded two Gault & Millau toques, Chef Julie Chaix oversees the hotel’s two dining destinations: Allegria, celebrating the finest Provençal produce, and La Petite Guinguette, a convivial summer table made for long lunches and golden-hour aperitifs. Contemporary art remains at the heart of the experience, with exhibitions and cultural programming curated throughout the year.
2. LES HAUTS DE SANCERRE | 3 NEW EXPERIENCES IN THE LOIRE VALLEY
A suite steeped in History, a hidden lap pool & a family culinary story
One year after opening its doors, Les Hauts de Sancerre continues its renaissance with three major additions. Guests can now spend the night in La Suite de la Tour, an exceptional 50 sqm suite perched atop the estate’s 12th-century Tour des Fiefs, discover a new 12-metre landscaped lap pool hidden among the historic gardens, and experience L’Atelier du Cèdre, the château’s new gastronomic restaurant.
Led by Michelin-starred chef Eddy Münster and his son Arnaud Münster (Top Chef, season 15), L’Atelier du Cèdre tells the geological story of Sancerre through a contemporary cuisine inspired by the land, the sea that once covered the region, and its world-renowned vineyards (opening end of July).
3. LE GRATIN | A NEW PARISIAN BISTROT NEAR THE LOUVRE
Set on Iconic “Emily in Paris” Square”
Set on Place de Valois, just steps from the Palais-Royal and the Louvre, Le Gratin is the latest restaurant by Parisian restaurateur Michel Puech (Biche, Margaux, Blandine, Pastis, Clos…). Breathing new life into the former Bistrot de Valois, the restaurant embraces the timeless codes of the Parisian bistrot with white tablecloths, red banquettes and generous French cuisine.
The menu features beloved classics such as devilled eggs with mayonnaise, garlic parsley frog legs, sole meunière and chocolate mousse served by the spoon, alongside signature dishes including the cordon bleu – recently named Best Cordon Bleu in Paris – and an indulgent lobster gratin. Open daily from noon to midnight, Le Gratin captures the spirit of old Paris without ever feeling nostalgic.
4. FUMO | A CREATIVE ICE CREAM POP-UP IN THE MARAIS
Unexpected savoury flavours
Open in the heart of the Marais (Paris) until 20 September 2026, FUMO is a creative food pop-up founded by Mélanie Rozencwajg in collaboration with chef Tessa Ponzo for this first edition. Conceived as an evolving culinary playground, the project explores ice cream beyond the traditional dessert format through unexpected textures, savoury influences and bold ingredient pairings.
Produced with artisan ice cream maker Terre Adélice, FUMO’s creations are designed as plated culinary experiences, complemented by pairings from ArchiPel Kombucha.
Since opening, guests have embraced signature flavours such as Pickle Sorbet, Nyons Olive Oil Ice Cream, and Fig Leaf & Cardamom Ice Cream, each offering an unexpected take on summer indulgence. And the menu continues to evolve with two new creations: Rosemary Sorbet served with Nyons olive oil, roasted fennel and Guérande sea salt, and Burnt Rice Ice Cream, inspired by the deep, toasted flavours of caramelised rice.
Feature image: LES HAUTS DE SANCERRE