General Description

• This is unmistakably a magnificent property! Inspiring views across the rolling Provencal countryside are just one of many pleasures that come with staying here. There are separate parts to this property that when rented together can accommodate up to 17 people, but outside of July and August it’s possible to take this Villa that is ideal for a group or family of up to 6 adults.
• Constructed on the site of a former 12^th century priory, this creatively restored property has the emphasis on comfort but in keeping with the traditional style of the south of France. A deluxe property, it is attractively decorated and includes many antique furnishings. The exterior has large surrounding patios for alfresco entertaining with tables and chairs. The pergola gives shade from the sunshine but allows in plenty of light and, due to the elevated position of the house, the outlook whilst dining is spectacular day or night.
• Set in 5 hectares of thoughtfully landscaped Mediterranean garden, you will find not only lavender, olive trees, cypress and terracotta pots filled with an array of colourful plants but also a large children’s play area with sandpits for the little ones to play in. The adults may want to try their hand at France’s most popular game boules and there is access to a private tennis court. The private 15m by 7m swimming pool is encircled by a terrace containing stylish sun loungers to stretch out on and conveniently, there is a changing and bathroom area by the pool.

The Local Area

• Situated in the National Park of the Luberon, the neighbouring villages have a wealth of delights to explore. Only 2 km away is Gargas part of the “route de l’ocre”. The best red and yellow ochre in the world comes from this district and some of the quarries are open to the public , the most famous of these quarries is in Rousillon which is also within a couple of km - in fact you can glimpse its red hills from the house.
• You will find the nearest bakery, local shop and cafés in Gargas but if you want wider choice, nearby Apt is the place to go.
• Charming hilltop villages such as Menerbes, Bonnieux, Oppede le Vieux and Lacoste are a must see and be sure to check out with the local tourist offices if one of the many summer festivals is on during your stay.
• Top fashion designer Pierre Cardin’s spectacular annual festival at the Chateau of Lacoste (the former home of the infamous Marquis de Sade) is amazing.
• Don’t forget to make a trip to historic Avignon, home of the Palace of the Popes, and its legendary bridge of song fame. And why not drive into the Carmargue and see the white horses, fighting bulls and flamingoes. Marseille, with its restaurants serving its delicious speciality of bouillabaisse, and the Mediterranean Sea are not too far away for a day trip either.
• Apart from your own private sports facilities, nearby you may enjoy walking, biking and golf. Many people come to Provence to paint and take photos of the endlessly inspiring landscape.
• Of course if you adore wine and food, this is a gourmand’s paradise with winemakers offering tastings at their vineyards and a wide range choice of restaurants to choose from. You can even arrange for a chef to come and cook at the property.
• A favourite local market is in Apt every Saturday morning – it can have up to 200 stalls and apparently dates back to the 12^th century.
• The nearest supermarket is in Apt which is 6km away.

Facilities

• Living room: TheVilla has 190m2 of living space for up to 6 people and 1 baby. A small staircase from the entry hall takes you into a double independent sitting room which has a sofa and two armchairs cosily placed by the fireplace in one section; in the other, a television area with an additional sofa and armchairs.
• Kitchens: There is a fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances; dishwasher, oven, microwave, kettle and an American style fridge/freezer.
• Bedrooms: The bedrooms have a restful air cleverly combining oriental antiques and Provencal style. The ground floor has a double bedroom with en-suite bathroom. First floor has one double-bedded room and a twin - bedded room which could become a double with the beds joined together. There is also space for a baby’s cot.
• Bathrooms: all the bathrooms have a bath with shower attachment and double sinks. A separate toilet is on the ground floor. The bedroom on the ground floor has an en-suite bathroom with toilet. The first floor has a bathroom and there is also a separate toilet.
• Laundry-room: There is a large washing machine and tumble-drier available in the basement laundry room.
• Outside: 40,000 m2 of garden completely enclosed with an electric gate entrance.
• Swimming pool:The 15m by 7m pool is completely fenced and has two alarms in accordance with French law.
• Internet access is available at this property.
• Telephone: yes, available at this property.
• Baby facilities: Highchairs and cots for babies are available upon request at time of booking.
• Babysitting: can be arranged upon request.
• Tennis Court: available on site, please ask to use this.
• Bike Hire: again, available on site, please ask.
• Private Chef: A little luxury?! Please ask upon arrival for details.
• Winter heating: is included in the price of this holiday.
• Gas, electric, & water: are all included in the price of your stay.
• End-of-stay cleaning: Three hours of cleaning on both a Tuesday and Friday are included in the cost of your holiday.
• Bed & bathroom linen: all included in the price, including pool towels.
• Damage Deposit: A deposit of 2000 euros is payable upon arrival to cover the cost of any damage or breakages during your stay. This will be returned to you by post, less the cost of any replacements or repairs, one week after your departure.
• Taxe de Sejour :In France, it is necessary to pay a “Taxe de Séjour” at the end of your stay and this is payable to the owner upon arrival.
• Change-over day: usually Saturday, please ask out of main holiday season.
• Long weekend stays: Please ask for details out of main holiday season.

How To Get There

• By Car – Directions by car from the A8 motorway
• By Air –, Marseilles, Avignon and Nimes airports all within 1 hour or 1½ hour
• By Train - The high speed TGV service runs directly from London or Paris to Marseilles.
• Full directions, etc, will be sent once you make a booking

Enquire about this property