Villa Les Vignes

After strolling to the village to pick up fresh croissants, serve breakfast on the pretty terrace overlooking the vineyards before venturing out to explore the Luberon. This attractive villa in Provence is perfectly located away from the tourist crowds yet near some of the Luberon’s most famous villages including Gordes and Roussillon.

Villa Les Vignes was once an ancient bergerie, made out of local stone and located at the foot of the authentic village of Joucas. It’s wonderful to sit out in the south-facing garden (meaning you are protected from the mistral) overlooking vineyards and beautiful Luberon landscapes. The swimming pool is especially inviting in the warm summer months and there is a picturesque terrace for al-fresco dining in the shade. As evening approaches, the sunsets over the vines are idyllic.

Inside, the thick stone walls keep the villa cool in the summer and comfortable during winter months although there is also air-conditioning throughout. Admire characterful features such as exposed wood beams, Provençal ceilings and the lounge’s grand fireplace, alongside a blend of modern and classic furnishings. The garden room is a relaxing place for your morning coffee overlooking the garden and countryside beyond.

The villa sleeps up to 8 guests across four bedrooms – three doubles and a quad with four single beds. There are also three bathrooms – one en suite (downstairs) and another two on the first floor.

It really is lovely to be able to easily wander to the hilltop village to explore its flower-filled lanes and come across old stone houses, sculptures and a striking windmill on the edge of the village (do visit inside). The village is home to a couple of restaurants and a delightful épicerie with a good range of products and fresh bread. There are some great walks from the village including a challenging hike through the Gorges du Véroncle.

Meanwhile, the iconic hilltop villages of Gordes and Roussillon are just 6km away, both classified as two of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’. Other Luberon gems nearby include Ménerbes and Bonnieux or head a little further south to the likes of Lourmarin, Ansouis and Cucuron (all three with Michelin starred restaurants!).

Discover canoeing along the Sorgue near Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, horse-riding, cycling and yet more atmospheric markets in local villages and towns. Don’t miss L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue’s Sunday morning brocante and Velleron’s Farmer’s market most summer evenings.

Furthermore, if you can find the time, visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Avignon or soak up the romance of Aix-en-Provence, both brilliant days out from your holiday home in the Luberon.