Villa De L'Ourse
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Overview
Whether exploring Pays de Fayence’s gorgeous hilltop villages or driving down to the French Riviera coastline, Villa De L’Ourse is a welcoming holiday villa with plenty of features to appeal to everyone.
In recent years, the dedicated owners have transformed this 20th century home into a stylish abode after extensive renovations both inside and out. Up to twelve guests can stay here – eight adults across the four tastefully decorated double bedrooms, each one with their own bath or shower room, and an ensuite bedroom with two sets of bunkbeds for younger visitors.
Families will absolutely love the games room where kids can chill out with a DVD, play table football or discover what board games and books are on offer. Upstairs an open-plan living and dining space opens out to the south-facing terrace for al-fresco barbecues and feasts.
The swimming pool is the perfect size for summer fun on hot summer afternoons and an attractive poolside terrace allows ample room for sunbathing. A shaded area is ideal for a game of ping-pong or two whilst the rustic gardens and olive trees add to the charm of this Provençal home.
The pretty, bustling village of Fayence is merely 2km by car with its many cafes and restaurants, thrice-weekly market and historic architecture. Visit the communal bread oven, now a museum, and admire the beautiful 18th century church in the heart of the village. Antique lovers should check the dates of the atmospheric brocantes that take place in Fayence’s Le Grand Jardin. More adventurous guests may be keen to seek out Fayence’s famous gliding club.
There are so many other perched villages dotted across the Pays de Fayence – Seillans, Callian, Mons and Montauroux are all within a 12km drive, as are the shores of Lac de Saint-Cassien where you will find endless opportunities for hiking, horse-riding, cycling, lakeside picnics as well as summer watersports.
If you can tear yourself away from the beauty of the Côte d'Azur hinterland, drive down to the coast to soak up the elegant ambience of Saint-Raphaël, admire the historic sites of Fréjus, take a boat tour from Cannes, visit the Picasso museum in Antibes or simply make the most of the many glorious beaches along this part of the French Riviera.
What you should know…
- Villa De L’Ourse can sleep up to 8 adults across its four doubles and an additional four children/teens in the bedroom with bunkbeds – please see the “Features” tab for details on the layout.
- As per French guidance, only children with a minimum age of 6 are allowed on the top bunk.
This home is a part of our Great Value Collection!
Our great value homes:
- may be traditionally styled for a laid back feeling
- may have some simple amenities and features
- mean that you can enjoy top holiday destinations for less!
Property Features
Villa Interiors (230m2)
Main Upper Floor
- Lounge with L-shaped sofa and TV
- Open-plan dining area with table for 12 guests and doors leading to al-fresco dining terrace
- Open-plan kitchen, fully-equipped including oven, microwave, induction hob, large fridge, ice-maker, coffee machine, toaster, kettle, raclette machine and food processor
- 2 x bedrooms with double bed (160x200cm) and ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Shared WC with sink
Lower Garden Level
- Games room with lounge area, TV, DVD player, books and DVDs, table football, Bluetooth speaker and games
- Bedroom with double bed (160x200cm) and adjoining bathroom with walk-in shower and WC
- Bedroom with double bed (160x200cm) and adjoining bathroom with bath and WC
- Children's bedroom with two sets of bunkbeds (90x200cm each) and adjoining bathroom with walk-in shower and WC
As per French guidance, only children with a minimum age of 6 are allowed on the top bunk
Outside Grounds (3000m2, enclosed)
- Heated swimming pool (8x4m, depth: 1.4m) with fencing and hard safety cover. Open all year, heated approximately April to October only
- Poolside terrace with sun-loungers
- South-facing terrace (60m2) with al-fresco dining table (for 6) and electric barbecue
- Shaded terrace with table tennis
- Outdoor lighting
- Electric gate
- Parking
Facilities
- Books
- Bluetooth speaker
- Drying rack
- Ironing facilities
Location
About the surrounding area of Villa De L'OurseVilla De L’Ourse is in the Côte d'Azur hinterland in the Pays de Fayence, an ideal position for exploring the idyllic villages and landscapes of this region as well as the beautiful Lac de Saint-Cassien. Spend the day discovering the glitz of the French Riviera with both Cannes and Saint-Raphaël around 40km away.
The villa is set just off the main road that connects Fayence to Mons, meaning the charming village of Fayence (2km) can be quickly reached by car. It’s a lovely village to explore with a great choice of restaurants and cafes and a rich heritage including the 18th century Church of Saint Jean Baptiste, an original communal bread oven (now a museum) and the oldest Christian church of the region just outside the village, La Chapelle de Notre Dame des Cyprès. The morning market is on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays in the heart of the village. Furthermore, look out for several events, including antique fairs, that take place at the Le Grand Jardin throughout the year.
Other picture-perfect villages across the Pays de Fayence include perched Seillans (8km), one of France’s classified ‘Plus Beaux Villages’, Mons (12km) with its incredible natural scenery, Callian (10km), known for its steep lanes leading up to a medieval castle, and Montauroux (10km), the gateway to Lac de Saint-Cassien.
Indeed, Lac de Saint-Cassien offers a wealth of outdoor activities from hiking through the forest, lakeside picnics, cycling, horse-riding, carp fishing to summer watersports such as kayaking, canoeing and pedal boat hire. If you are keen on adventures, it is also worth noting that Fayence’s famous gliding club is around a ten-minute drive away.
Further south, the French Riviera can be reached for a wonderful day out. Driving through landscapes of the Estérel, passing pretty villages such as Bagnols-en-Forêt (17km) or Les Adrets-de-l'Estérel (21km), you can reach the coastline around Saint-Raphaël and Fréjus in around 40km. As well as fine beaches, watersports and summer fun, experience the historic ambience of both gorgeous French Riviera towns.
Cannes (42km) also awaits with its palm-fringed shores, glamorous shopping opportunities and high-end dining establishments or spend the day soaking up the charm of Antibes, following magnificent coastal hiking trails in Cap d’Antibes or enjoying the atmospheric beaches of Juan-Les-Pins.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Nice
(61km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Toulon Hyères
(123km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Saint-Raphaël Valescure
(39km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Fayence
(2km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Fayence
(2km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
(2km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
(8km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
(37km) |
||
| Nearest Town/City |
Saint-Raphaël/Cannes
(38km/42km) |
||
Region
The Provençal way of life is one that’s deeply tempting for anyone who’s been feeling the need to get away from it all. This is a place where the Mediterranean weather turns fields of corn and lavender into picture-perfect backdrops, where you can sip your locally bought wine and enjoy the landscapes before heading out and tackling them head-on with a range of great activities for families, groups of friends and adventurous foodies. Better yet, our range of villas in Provence and chateaux and holiday homes in the Côte d’Azur make the perfect base to explore this enchanting region!
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesOne of the great attractions of this region is the superb Lac de Saint-Cassien. Outdoor activities include hiking through the forests, cycling, horse-riding, carp fishing or simple picnics by the lakeside. Try out summer watersports on the lake such as kayaking, canoeing or pedal boat hire.
Enjoy long family walks through the Var countryside, either following paths through the woodland or discovering nature trails such as the one created by the village’s children in Saint-Paul-en-Forêt.
Heading south towards Fréjus, Oxygene Evasion offers tree-top activities for children aged 4+ (depending on height) whilst the Parc Zoologique de Fréjus may appeal to animal lovers. Of course, the glorious beaches of both Fréjus and Saint-Raphaël also await offering plenty of summer fun and watersports.
Cannes and Antibes can also be visited for the day, home to gorgeous sandy shores, watersports, boat tours and more. Just north of Antibes you will find several family attractions such as Marineland, Antibes Land Park, Adventure Golf and Kid’s Island.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Theme park
- Kid-friendly museum
- Zoo
- Kid-friendly excursions
- Water excursions/Boat trips
- Forest park/High-rope course
- <1hr to Airport
- Watersports
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Children's videos/DVDs
- Children's books
- Board games
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- Games Room
- Indoor Games
- Outdoor Games
- Table Tennis
- Table Football
- DVD
- Fenced Grounds
Services Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Pre-Stocked Fridge Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- Babysitting / childcare services
Extra services available at this property (payable locally):
- Private chef
- Fridge stocking
- Extra cleaning and change of linens/towels
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
| Security deposit | €2000 charged to client’s credit card by Oliver’s Travels as a pre-authorisation one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | Anytime between 4.00 p.m. and 8.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €2000 charged to client’s credit card by Oliver’s Travels as a pre-authorisation one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | Anytime between 4.00 p.m. and 8.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes, plus mid stay clean for bookings over 14 nights. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, changed once for bookings over 14 nights. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes, changed once for bookings over 14 nights. |
| Changeover day | Saturday from end-June to beginning-September. Flexible during all other periods. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights from end-June to beginning-September. 4 nights during all other periods. |
| Pets welcome? | Small dogs may be accepted on request only and with prior agreement with the owner. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Not allowed. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open year round but heated only from April to October approximately. Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming. |
| Pool heating charge? | Included. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax payable locally (typically costs €1-€5 per adult per night- please enquire if exact amount is required). |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | As per French guidance, only children with a minimum age of 6 are allowed on the top bunk. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 12 people:
| Rental period | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 19th 2024 - May 18th 2024 | £2,058 | £2,573 | £3,416 |
| May 18th 2024 - Jun 22nd 2024 | £2,573 | £3,216 | £4,168 |
| Jun 22nd 2024 - Jul 13th 2024 | - | - | £4,469 |
| Jul 13th 2024 - Aug 17th 2024 | - | - | £4,544 |
| Aug 17th 2024 - Aug 31st 2024 | - | - | £4,469 |
| Aug 31st 2024 - Sep 21st 2024 | £2,058 | £2,573 | £3,416 |
| Sep 21st 2024 - Oct 26th 2024 | £1,801 | £2,251 | £3,040 |
| Oct 26th 2024 - Nov 9th 2024 | £1,544 | £1,930 | £2,665 |
| Nov 9th 2024 - Dec 14th 2024 | £1,417 | £1,771 | £2,478 |
| Dec 14th 2024 - Feb 1st 2025 | £1,932 | £2,414 | £3,229 |
| Feb 1st 2025 - Mar 5th 2025 | £1,674 | £2,093 | £2,854 |
| Mar 5th 2025 - Apr 5th 2025 | £1,801 | £2,251 | £3,040 |
| Apr 5th 2025 - May 17th 2025 | £2,058 | £2,573 | £3,416 |
| May 17th 2025 - Jun 21st 2025 | £2,573 | £3,216 | £4,168 |
| Jun 21st 2025 - Jul 12th 2025 | - | - | £4,469 |
| Jul 12th 2025 - Aug 16th 2025 | - | - | £4,544 |
| Aug 16th 2025 - Aug 30th 2025 | - | - | £4,469 |
| Aug 30th 2025 - Sep 20th 2025 | £2,058 | £2,573 | £3,416 |
| Sep 20th 2025 - Oct 21st 2025 | £1,801 | £2,251 | £3,040 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
- How long have you owned the property?
The house has been in the family since 1965.
Marcel Gombert, whose family was from Fayence, spent all his childhood and ad...
Read moreOwner Profile
- How long have you owned the property?
The house has been in the family since 1965.
Marcel Gombert, whose family was from Fayence, spent all his childhood and adolescent summers there and decided to build a house there. His family had always owned land on the outskirts of the village and has probably been picking olives there for centuries.
Marcel Gombert was himself the founder of a real estate construction company in the Toulon region. His daughter and grandchildren are now the owners of the house through the real estate company.
- What aspect of the property was most appealing to you?
We particularly like the silence of the nights, the countless stars in the skies of Haute Provence and the changing colours of the olive trees in the wind.
- Do you have any interesting stories from the property?
Right next to our current property was the property of a great uncle who almost perished on the 15th August 1944 during the rise of the American army which liberated Haute-Provence. Task Force Butler, which was going up towards the Route Napoléon with tanks, stopped on the road in front of his house and charged towards the great uncle who was trying to shelter his donkey! An infantry general yelled at the great uncle – in American – “Are there any Germans here, answer! The old man hardly spoke anything but Provençal and owes his salvation only to a grandson who answered in bad English and snatched him from the claws of our liberators!
- Have you had any celebrity guests?
We haven't had any celebrity guests in this house – that may come! – but Fayence had some and hosted Marguerite Yourcenar, the great writer, for an entire winter in the 1950s. The lady who gave her injections was also treating a grandmother of the family and we thus had the feeling of knowing her.
- For visitors to the area, is there anything nearby…
- To do ?
For visitors, there are of course a number of things to do! Here are the main ones (we provide a very detailed notebook in our house):
The most basic thing to do is to go up to Mons, a small village with old houses and the Roman aqueduct of Roche Taillée, which brought water from the Siagnole to Fréjus, a Roman port at the time.
- To see?
The whole plain of Fayenceand the Lachens mountain and the peaks of the pre-Alps seen from a glider from the aerodrome. The Gorges du Verdon and their famous sites.
- To eat?
All the specialties of the "Relais des Moines" in Les Arcs (next to the famous chapel of Sainte Roseline decorated by Chagall)
All the specialties of the Hostellerie des Gorges de Pennafort
- Do you have any insider secrets of the property or the region?
We advise you to go in search of the treasure of the Templars. Indeed, in the region, old castles, old chapels, ruins, the very famous treasure of the Templars may be buried...
Reviews
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Perfect stay.
Perfect stay. Location, building, equipment, pool, surroundings. A dream stay for those who love peace and quiet, with the magic of the place doing the rest. We highly recommend this rental!
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Delighted!
Delighted with our stay!! Everything was perfect. The living space and bedrooms are lovely, the equipment provided are very functional and thoughtful (we really appreciated the ice machine!).
A little bit more, the decor is tasteful and compliments the exposed stone for even greater comfort.
I'm almost sorry to have to leave so soon, as it would take a week to get the most out of the place. Lastly, the concierge service is very practical. What more could you want? -
Very beautiful
Very beautiful house. Nearby a big lake with lots of things to do. We are very happy and have had a great holiday.
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