Stay in your very own corner of Provençal paradise at this beautiful villa set in the forest, just a 40-minute drive of the French Riviera.

Take in the calming scenery around you as you head through the gates of Villa Dumas, surrounded by the aromas of pine trees and summer lavender. There are bursts of colour across the beautifully landscaped gardens alongside little stone walls, pretty steps and the most charming of terraces. Cook meals al-fresco by the plancha, dine with friends or family under the cast-iron pergola, then retire in the outdoor lounge with a glass of wine, perhaps from the vineyards of nearby Château de Berne.

The air-conditioned interiors offer both style and space with a living and dining area opening up to the elegant farmhouse kitchen with a Lacanche stove and other high-end appliances. The main villa is home to two double en suite bedrooms including a sumptuous master double with a contemporary walk-in shower,  as well as a bunk-bed bedroom suitable for children. A studio annexe offers a third double bedroom with its own entrance, a great option for a couple or grandparents wanting a little extra independence.

Set in the woodland with other houses dotted across the neighbouring countryside, the nearby town of Lorgues, offers charming restaurants and shops and is less than a ten minute drive away. It’s typically Provençal in character with authentic buildings, fountains and a wonderfully traditional bustling market on a Tuesday morning.

Other delightful market towns and villages close by include Draguignan, Vidauban and Flayosc or drive further afield towards Aups, the gateway to the incredible Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon and its world famous gorges beyond. Find horse-riding nearby, canoeing and kayaking along the Argens river as well as so many cycling routes and hiking trails. Also look out for festivities, night markets and brocantes taking place across the Dracénie region in the summer months.

The French Riviera also awaits whether spending the day in historic Fréjus, sun-bathing on the shores of Saint-Raphaël, enjoying the beaches around Sainte-Maxime or soaking up the glamour of Saint-Tropez. You could even drive as far as Cannes, Antibes or Nice for a superb day out or stay closer to home and explore the mountain villages of the Massif des Maures before heading back to your wonderful woodland retreat.