Villa Benat

As you wake up in the morning, look out towards the yachts sailing by on the glistening Mediterranean. The views from the sea-facing terraces at Villa Benat are simply magical - it is wonderful being a short walk from a beach and only 5km from the lovely French Riviera town of Le Lavandou.

Set in a private domaine with its own tennis courts (available to book at an additional charge), épicerie and beach, all the houses have been created from local stone with natural surroundings as borders. Villa Benat is a gorgeous home, designed by professionals with contemporary décor and a relaxing vibe. You can see the sea from all four bedrooms (three doubles and a triple room), as well as the gorgeous terraces across the various levels.

There is space to dine al-fresco beneath the twinkling lights on the decked terrace and relax on the outdoor lounge with a glass of chilled rosé. There is even a little swimming pool for cooling off on those warm summer days or you can choose to walk down the path to the estate’s beach (in just under 10 minutes on foot). Stop off at the épicerie for picnic supplies, not far from the estate’s tennis courts.

Le Lavandou is an attractive harbourfront town with restaurants, markets, lively summer bars and some glorious beaches including Plage d’Aiguebelle and Plage de Cavalière. Come across all sorts of watersports and admire the beautiful scenery as you follow Le Sentier du Littoral hiking path along this stunning coastline.  

Take time to potter around the picture-perfect village of Bormes-les-Mimosas with flower-filled lanes, pretty squares, fountains and atmospheric café terraces. You could even venture to the hilltop villages of Gassin, Grimaud and Ramatuelle or spend time in Saint-Tropez itself soaking up the glamour of this colourful former fishing village, now one of the Côte d’Azur’s most desirable destinations.

Discover yet more beauty as you sail to the idyllic Les Îles d'Hyères, a short summer ferry trip from Le Lavandou. Cycle across Porquerolles passing vineyards, olive groves and eucalyptus trees to reach Caribbean-style beaches or follow the signposted footpaths in Port Cros, a National Park loved for its hiking, snorkelling and incredible nature.