This light and airy home overlooks the dazzling sea on the French Riviera. The villa is located on the Giens Peninsula near the town of Hyères, which was once the playground of European royalty and aristocrats but is now a holiday location which the French like to keep to themselves.
Maison Melissande is a spacious family home that has been lovingly decorated to reflect this area's artistic spirit, which is a hub for poets and artists. Stepping inside, you will enter an open-plan living space with comfortable sofas and a large dining table, perfect for evening meals looking out over the garden. The living area opens out onto the fully-fitted kitchen to create a social space. When you feel sleepy after a busy day at the beach, you can unwind in one of the four stylish bedrooms, one of which has a separate entrance for extra peace and quiet.
Heading outside, you will discover a charming garden with lots of little tucked-away spaces. Outdoors there is an inviting private pool, a covered al-fresco dining space, comfy seating for reading a good book and even an outdoor kitchen and barbecue area. The garden is also enveloped by staggering panoramic views over the cliffs and the Mediterranean Sea.
When you need to pick up some groceries or pop out for a bite to eat, you couldn't be closer to the nearest amenities as the village of Giens is on your doorstep. This authentic French village is great to have so close. There are a wide range of shops and eateries here, historic streets to wander around and a bustling market on a Tuesday where you can pick up local produce and artisan gifts. Walk up to the viewing platform to take in the most breathtaking views of the sea and the nearby Golden Islands.
Under 1km away, there is a fabulous little spot, the Port of Niel, which is lovely to stroll down to. The port is surrounded on one side by a pine forest which fills the warm air with a gorgeous fragrance. There is also a little beach, and the port itself is filled with colourful fishing boats. If you are looking for somewhere for dinner, there is a fantastic seafood restaurant famous for its fish soup and lavender sorbet, all prepared with local produce. After dinner, there is a gentle coastal walking route which can be followed.
The closest large town is Hyères which is 13km away by car. Hyères is filled with historic streets and buildings from various eras as it has been settled for 2500 years! Here you can see ancient churches, medieval towers and pretty shop-lined squares. You will also notice many palm trees dotted around as the town is nicknamed the town of palm trees. The town is also known for its markets, and you will find a different one most days in the main square, the Place Massillon.
For a day out, why not visit the magical Golden Islands by boat, or drive to the City of Toulon, which is 29km away, or Saint-Tropez, which is 58km away.
