Set in an old mansion at the foot of the Palais des Papes in the heart of Avignon, La Mirande is steeped in secular history. This timeless refuge offers a dreamy, relaxing and authentic experience in a refines, 18th century-esque décor.
The hotel is named after the famous room in the Palais des Papes, La Mirande, where the Pope’s representatives held receptions for the city’s notables and visiting high-ranking officials.
Its ancient walls hold years of history. Originally a Cardinal’s Palace in the 14th century, the ruins of La Mirande were restored during the 17th century to create the Hôtel de Vervins and its baroque façade by architect Pierre Mignard, later becoming the Hôtel Pamard between the late 18th and 20th centuries.
The Stein family researched the typical styles and materials of the region in depth before beginning restoration works between 1987 and 1990.
While some listed features reflect the early origins of La Mirande, its owners wanted to recreate the atmosphere of an 18th century aristocratic residence, where period tapestries and chandeliers harmoniously co-exist with tufted armchairs and master paintings.
The 18th century interior en vogue in the Age of Enlightment were recreated when, in 1990 La Mirande opened its doors as a hotel-restaurant. This very French house was inspired by the memory of the grace of living that, for some, existed before the time of revolutions.

The twenty upper-floor rooms boast a unique décor, each with its own 18th century wall hanging recreated by Braquenié, Le Manach, Canovas, Comoglio and Rubelli, to name a few. The abundant Indienne fabrics, also known as “toile de Jouy”, are a perfect match for the silk-lined curtains with large pleats that pool softly on the floor. All modern comforts are seamlessly integrated into the interior design, as evinced by the “mirror” televisions. The bright and cheerful rooms quickly help tired travellers relax and unwind. Many of them afford a splendid and unique view of the high walls of the Palais des Papes. The bathroom constitutes a noble room in itself, with a delightfully unexpected décor of vintage Mauny block-printed wallpaper, antique faucets and Carrare marble.

The gourmet restaurant’s friendly and attentive staff creates a truly gastronomic experience in the warm and inviting setting of the Cardinalice room, a vestige of the cardinals’ residence, with its magnificent Renaissance coffered ceiling. In winter, a crackling fireplace plays soft background music while in warmer weather the terrace and garden provide an oasis of calm.
Adjoining the main restaurant, the Napoleon III salon with its original woodwork and period vaisselier creates an especially festive setting for guests in the former dining room of the Pamard family.
Every Tuesday and Wednesday nights (on request for private events), another table is laid in the basement of La Mirande, a chef’s table hosting up to fourteen guests. Cooking over an old wood stove with copper pots, Chef Jean-Claude Altmayer concocts meals inspired by the day’s market finds. The chef’s exuberant personality and anecdotes make for a convivial moment filled with friendly discussion and an original mealtime experience around a large wooden table.
Since 1994, La Mirande’s cooking school, “Le Marmiton”, hosts the region’s greatest chefs. One week per month, they will invite you to join them in the old kitchen where they will cook on the 19th century wood-fired stove.
Every afternoon, in the glass-covered patio or on the terrace, a buffet of home-made, 100% organic pastries is prepared by pastry La Mirande chef.
La Mirande’s bar is set in the warm and inviting atmosphere of its red drawing room with a 17th century painted ceiling. A subtle and varied drink list is sure to meet the highest expectations.