La Bastide Bronze

Stay in majestic surroundings in the south of France at this beautiful villa with the most glorious grounds featuring vast amounts of space, a swimming pool, summer kitchen and tennis court, just a short drive from Grasse, the perfume capital of France.

There’s a sense of timeless elegance in this magnificent bastide which has been designed with provençal charm and colours throughout. Wander into the air-conditioned main villa and socialise with family or friends in the spacious living and dining area and create meals to remember in the wonderfully equipped kitchen to be enjoyed on the grand terrace looking over the gardens and landscapes beyond. Step back in time as you discover the five bedrooms with their stone floors, wood beams and traditional furnishings, some also featuring antique beds and most with graceful en suite bathrooms. Peer through the pretty windows to be greeted by the loveliest of views dotted with Cypress trees and the forested hills around Grasse.

For further guests, a sixth bedroom can be found in the poolside annexe. A fully-equipped gym is another fine addition to this remarkable holiday home, not to mention the private tennis court at the very end of the terraced gardens.

The air of provençal romance continues as you explore the huge estate. Start off by the swimming pool with its stone terrace, sweet aromas of Mediterranean herbs and charming summer kitchen for more al-fresco dining with a view. As you stroll around the enchanting gardens with its many levels and steps, come across old-fashioned benches, an ancient fountain and peaceful corners where you can appreciate the verdant scenery around you.

Just 3.5km away, Grasse’s perfume heritage dates back to the 17th century – nowadays visitors come from across the world to admire its perfume shops, factories and museums with guided tours offered by famous brands such as Fragonard and Molinard. It’s such an attractive town to explore with historic houses, narrow lanes, idyllic squares and lots of pretty shops and restaurants.

The market town of Valbonne is also a delight, especially on a Friday morning whilst Mougins is a must for lovers of fine food and art. There are some wonderful walks through the Valmasque forests or head further inland towards Gourdon and the waterfalls around Saut du Loup for yet more extraordinary natural beauty.

The glistening Côte d'Azur with its beaches around Cannes, Juan-Les-Pins and Antibes are around half an hour by car or drive across to Nice for another fine day out visiting the museums, flower markets and art galleries - just some of the many highlights of the alluring French Riviera.