La Vieille Cour

A quite spectacular house blessed with coruscating Luberon panoramas, La Vieille Cour mixes customary Provençal relaxation with polished, modern design.

Superbly configured, with chic, contemporary décor blended with nods to the traditional throughout, this truly special property is ideally situated for those seeking the quintessential holiday in Provence, with more than a touch of high-end living. Nestled in the petite village of Maubec, itself a charming fusion of the traditional and contemporary, you will be ideally located for adventures around the Luberon region and beyond.

As you enter the main living space, you are immediately captivated by the stunning high ceilings with exposed timber beams, arched windows and renaissance-style portes-fenêtre set into the thick stone walls. The beautiful, oversized sofa delivers tranquilising levels of comfort, while an ornate desk and chair sit adjacent to a curved, tiled staircase that leads to the five bedrooms and bathroom facilities upstairs.

A virtuoso blend of traditional and high contemporary design features typifies this grand property, with its terrific, well-equipped kitchen being no exception. Its superbly crafted cabinets and island centrepiece, large fridge/freezer and excellent range cooker with extractor hood make for the perfect gastronomic playground. A solid wood dining table completes this open-plan, airy space, with easy access from the kitchen door to the outdoor dining area. Outdoor cooking at the barbecue area offers another terrific option for the visiting gourmet.

On the first floor, the master bedroom features a double bed, a balcony with fabulous Luberon views, as well as an en-suite shower room. There are four additional double bedrooms, three with the benefit of air-conditioning. These stunning rooms are served by an additional shower room and bathroom, both with separate WC. 

In keeping with its sophisticated interior, this house’s remarkable south-facing terrace and gardens are an undeniable masterclass in Provençal landscaping. Ornate steps lead through a discreet and fragrant garden, replete with immaculately kept cypress trees and an illuminated boules court with a reclaimed water fountain at its edge. A central courtyard with sun loungers surrounds the private saltwater pool, which is a joy on a hot summer's day.

All of this is framed by a breathtaking hillside panorama that feels almost close enough to reach out and touch. Your evening can conclude as your morning began, as you refresh under the outdoor shower, before heading down the gentle steps into the terrace’s illuminated pool. Outdoor dining and relaxation are hallmarks of any break in Provence, yet very few are enjoyed in such salubrious and delightfully curated surroundings. 

From this convenient base, you can walk (along country roads) into Maubec for all essential amenities, as well as the chance to explore the historic side of this delightful village, with its ochre stone buildings, bell-tower and castle.

Just twenty minutes away by car are the stunning villages of Gordes and Roussillon, with seemingly endless choices of restaurants, independent shops, art galleries and markets offering all kinds of superb, locally-produced delights. You will be close to major roads if day trips to Avignon, with its centuries of history, or the golden sands of Marseille appeal.

At La Vieille Cour, you’ll also be ideally placed to explore this extraordinary region on foot or bike. Take the slow way round the Luberon hills and drink in the glorious views, before returning to your terrace and pool for a well-deserved rest.