Property Description
This exceptional and authentic ‘shepherds house’, not far from Nice, is a perfect place for a reunion, group or large / several families holidaying together. It could also be a great venue for professional & personal development, cultural & corporate events, weddings, yoga retreats, sports escapades or just a relaxing holiday !
This ancient farm was built in 1614 and has retained a lot of its original charm and character – thick stone walls, massive beams, traditional terracotta floors, iconic dove tower are just some of the impeccably-preserved features, blending in with a comfortable yet classy decor. The Bergerie is the perfect place to wind down and ideal for exploring the sea and mountains of south-east France !
Approximately 280 sq.m in size, Bergerie Pigeonnier offers a private swimming pool, large courtyard with BBQ and pizza oven, outdoor kitchen overlooking the pool and huge gardens with breath-taking views over the valley and mountains. Offering 7 bedrooms it has spacious indoor and outdoor living / dining areas and can also be used for various events. It can be divided in to 3 main parts: Studio Corsica (sleeps 4), Lucéram & Mercantour (sleep 10) and 3 bedrooms in the tower (sleep 2 each). Due to its spectacular location at nearly 900m and facing south, you can admire stunning sunsets in the evening from 4,500 sq.m mature lush garden overlooking the valley and mountains and it offers many quiet and shaded places for everyone. Two grand pianos in excellent condition are also at your disposal (C. Bechstein and Bluethner). There's secure parking for three cars, plus more alongside the roadside.
Situated near to a delightful, small village you can reach from the Bergerie in less than 10 mins by car, or 25 minutes’ walk. Apart from three restaurants, you will also find there a few small stores supplying basic necessities. Whether on holiday, or just a short break, there’s plenty of activities to enjoy on the nearby French Riviera. Thanks to its diverse landscapes, you can dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, hike in the mountains and in the winter, even ski all on the same day. The Bergerie is situated right on one of the most famous hiking and cycling trails, on the doorstep of Mercantour National Park. Horse riding, sailing, kite surfing, swimming, snorkelling, paddling, diving, river hiking, canyoning, rafting, kayaking and other activities are just some ways to experience the raw beauty of this natural environment. A tennis court, ping pong table and boule area (pétanque) are available.
The Bergerie has a maximum occupancy of 20 people (plus babies) and would be ideal for a large family(ies), group of friends or events.
Property Features
Living room: spacious and elegant, featuring unique arch-shaped ceilings and beautiful original features. Numerous sofa-style benches decorated with cushions, and armchairs/pouffs, provide ample space for relaxation where you can enjoy soothing ambiance of the piano, while admiring breath-taking views. Two sets of doors offer access to living & dining on the grand courtyard outside. Not only a place for relaxation, but living room can be transformed into concert venue, equipped with piano, ideal for musical performances. Bluetooth speakers also available. This versatile space can be used for meetings, yoga sessions or other events. Furthermore, the Studio "Corsica" has comfortable living area, providing additional space for relaxation and socializing.
Dining room: with similar arch-shaped ceilings, versatile space for both dining and socializing, with two long tables and 20 chairs, can comfortably accommodate sizable groups for meals. L-shaped breakfast bar with seating, overlooking kitchen adds to the open space and creates relaxed atmosphere for people to sit and enjoy drinks, while meals are prepared. Dining room is welcoming environment, encouraging interaction and easy for everyone to enjoy a culinary experience – we recommend having a chef!
Kitchen: located within dining room, culinary masterpiece perfectly designed for both functionality and style, well-equipped with high-standard appliances and suitable for professional catering - oven, gas hob, microwave, dishwasher, fridge/freezer, kettle, toaster & coffee machine (professional-style with coffee beans and drip coffee maker). Doors lead to courtyard with outdoor kitchen - ideal for barbecue and pizza enthusiasts with gas and charcoal bbq, griddle, plancha & pizza oven. For those seeking retreat after swimming, another sunny covered terrace awaits with large table & 12 chairs, fully-equipped summer kitchen with sink, plancha, large oven, gas hob, enclosed pantry with fridge, freezer, crockery, plates, glasses, etc. Here you can enjoy true alfresco dining!
Entrance hall: creates welcoming and comfortable environment for guests, combining authentic feel with original features. Spotlight is on grand piano (at guests’ disposal), plus wine fridges (in enclosed cupboards), sports equipment and essential safety provisions.
Bedrooms: seven in total. Charming “Studio Corsica” (as described below) makes two, for up to 4 people. Then independent family bedroom “Lucéram” has large bed (160cm) and bunk beds (90cm). Further spacious family bedroom “Nice” has large bed (160cm), 2 sets of bunk beds (90cm) and open-bathroom. Then up the tower’s winding stairs bedroom “Mare” with bunk beds (90cm) and further bedroom “Monte” with large bed (180cm), both share small independent bathroom. At the top, bedroom “Le Pigeonnier” has large bed (180cm or can be 2 singles) and ensuite. All bedrooms are naturally cool with thick walls, under-bed storage, central heating and stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains.
Bathrooms: four traditional-style bath or shower rooms. Studio "Corsica" has ensuite (as described below). "Nice" bedroom has open bathroom with double washbasins, over-bath shower & separate W/C. Up in the tower, independent bathroom has over-bath shower, washbasin & W/C. "Le Pigeonnier" bedroom has ensuite with shower, washbasin and W/C (note: behind screens). Separate guest toilet downstairs. Hairdryer available.
Other rooms: Studio “Corsica” is fully-equipped apartment (sleeps 4) with kitchenette (inc washing machine), table & 4 chairs, open living area with sofa and bunk beds (90x190), separate bedroom with double bed (160x200cm) and ensuite with washbasin, shower, W/C and bidet. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and mountains!
Outside: spacious gardens offer unforgettable experience and boast numerous quiet, shaded spots for everyone to enjoy picturesque views of valley and mountains. For sports enthusiasts, full-sized asphalt tennis court and playground for football or basketball is available. Children will find delight in specially-designed play area with swings and climbing frame. Boules pitch offers opportunity to engage in traditional French game or you can also try table tennis. Adjacent to the pool is fully-equipped summer kitchen, where you can indulge in al-fresco dining. Garden is fully fenced, providing secure environment for all to enjoy. Private parking for 3 cars, plus more available along the road.
Swimming pool: large 11 x 4.5m, delightfully refreshing on hot summer days and offering breath-taking views. Depth ranges from 1.1m to 2m and barriers and lockable gates add important safety features, especially for young children. As well as outdoor shower, there are small side tables & chairs and garden swing available for relaxing in the shady backdrop. Pool heating available (by prior request and supplement) and sliding ‘tunnel’ transforms it to indoors.
Internet: wi-fi throughout property.
Baby facilities: baby bed, travel cots, changing table & 2 baby chairs available upon request. Children’s books and toys for ages 2-5 years old, 5-10 years old, and 10+ years old.
Bed & bathroom linen: included in rental, but pool towels upon request at cost of 10 Euro per towel.
Gas & electric: included.
End-of-stay cleaning: priced separately, so if staying for more than 1 week you’re not paying in duplicate. It’s 205 Euros and collected upon reservation.
Taxe de Séjour: usually necessary to pay in France (tourist tax), calculated based on the number of people and time of year. Under 18's are exempt. We will advise you of the tax due at the time you make your reservation and how it’s to be paid.
Damage deposit: 1200 Euros per stay, made in advance with JDV by way of credit card. This will be refunded at the end of your stay, less the replacement cost of any breakages.
Change over day: is flexible all year round.
Long weekend stays: yes 2 nights minimum, and 5 nights minimum in July/August.
Pets: some dogs accepted, by prior request.
Smoking: not permitted, sorry.
Supplementary services (by prior request request): private chef, additional cleaning, babysitting, shuttle service with driver (e.g. to/from airport), professional coach and life coach sessions (see website www.escale-coaching.com). Contacts can be provided for yoga teacher and masseur. Various events such as weddings, concerts and corporate can be organised – all by prior request!
Environmental features: composting, naturally cool with thick walls (no A/C required).
About the local area
This ancient sheep farm is located close to village of Lucéram which is less than 10 min by car, or 25 minutes’ walk. There your will find three restaurants, two small shops with basic necessities and butcher "Du Coq au Boeuf", which also offers catering services and takes orders for fresh bread and pastries (delivered by delicious bakery in Escarène). Nearest big supermarket is in Cantaron, 25min drive.
Closest farmers market is in Breil-sur-Roya (14km) which takes place every Tuesday. Various daily markets in Nice (22km) and there are often small local markets in neighbouring villages like Escarène.
Heaven for cyclists on road, gravel, or mountain bike, with great choice of beautiful cycling routes across Riviera. It is situated right on one of most famous local trails on doorstep of Mercantour National Park. Several stables in area offer horse riding adventures. River hiking, canyoning, rafting, kayaking are just some ways to experience raw beauty of this natural environment. Tennis court, ping pong table and boule area (pétanque) are available at La Bergerie. Whatever your fitness level and desires, there is something for everybody.
Selection of beaches can be found in Nice, which is around 45 minute drive. Sailing, kite surfing, swimming, snorkelling, paddling, diving and so much more are just some of water sports available in and around Nice. Also many lovely beaches along coast towards Cannes or Italy, ideal for day by sea either picnicking or enjoying one of many cafes and restaurants with sun loungers.
Ski station of Col de Turini is around 20km away which is great day out on snowy slopes in winter; or for higher skiing Valberg, Isola 2000 and Auron are around 2 hour’s drive. All of ski stations are ideal for refreshing walking and cycling during hot summer months.
Getting around is easier if you have car, however there is also regular local bus service from Lucéram to central Nice which go five times day (weektime) and take about 45 minutes to central bus station.
Other activities and entertainment includes nearby Peira Cava (25 minutes’ drive) offers hiking, Paint Ball Park, as well as Zipline and Aerial Adventure experience. Take gorgeous Mimosa route in early spring. Ideal period for walking/hiking is from January to early March. From late June head out for day trip to enchanting lavender fields. Or just simply indulge in peaceful relaxation of countryside.
