La Retraite Estivale

With mesmerising views of the incredible Alpilles mountains, La Retraite Estivale offers stylish accommodation in a superb setting in this alluring part of Provence.

Sleeping up to 14 guests, this villa is superb for an extended family holiday or a large group of friends. Spend time together in the light-filled lounge with its sofas, beautiful fireplace, books and chairs creating a relaxed and care-free setting. Cook up Provençal feasts in the smart modern kitchen with its many gadgets and appliances, then dine in the quirky dining area with doors opening straight out to the terrace. The seven bedrooms, spread out over the main villa and neighbouring annexe, feature air-conditioning and en suite shower or bathrooms as well as an air of characterful simplicity and style.

Staring out at the hilly landscapes around you, spend lazy days in the vast gardens and open grounds. Challenge your loved ones to a game of pétanque, find a quiet spot to soak up the sun or dip into the beautiful 16m long heated swimming pool. Warm summer evenings can be spent under the swaying pine trees, enjoying chilled wine from local vineyards as you sit out with family and friends. In the very heart of Les Alpilles, the views are wonderful as you feel truly immersed in the nature around you.

Just 5km away is a typically Provençal village with excellent restaurants, gourmet shops and old mills producing some of France’s finest olive groves. Explore a little further afield and discover idyllic villages such as Les Baux-de-Provence and Eygalières or head to the artistic town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence with its particularly charming Wednesday morning market.

You’re also ideally situated to explore some of Provence’s archetypal villages of the Luberon or spend time exploring the magnificent cities of Avignon, Aix-en-Provence and Nîmes. Another town loved so much by Van Gogh, Arles is also close by, also a gateway to the alluring scenery of the Camargue.

Hike through fields of rosemary and thyme, cycle past summer sunflowers or take in the area’s natural beauty on horse-back. Visit vineyards, sample olive oil and dine in Michelin starred restaurants. However you spend your time, this enchanting region is sure to charm you in so many ways.