There are so many luxurious activities to indulge in all over glorious Provence that it is a challenge to only choose five…
From the famous villages of The Luberon and the Alpilles to the coveted coastal resorts of Le Lavandou and Cassis, Provence has over 800 charming towns and villages that are bursting with things to do. But while a glass of rosé in a shady Provençal square might be your ultimate fulfilment one day, on another occasion you may wish to indulge in some slightly more luxurious experiences.
If you are looking for some high-end escapades, here’s a list to work your way through.
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Stay in five-star surroundings in Gordes
They say that if the Luberon was a country then Gordes would be its capital city. Honey-coloured stone buildings and a 12th century castle perched up high on craggy rock, this ancient village has stolen hearts for centuries.
For a luxurious stay in Gordes, book a suite at the five-star La Bastide de Gordes – the best is Baron de Simiane. Its Michelin-star restaurant “Pèir, Pierre Gagnaire” offers a mouth-watering tasting menu. Just 15 minutes from Notre-Dame-de-Sénanque, you can easily experience this legendary active monastery, one of the most popular historical experiences in Provence, and then pop back to La Bastide for some rest and relaxation in the sublime Sisley Spa.
Dine out in style in Saint-Rémy
With summer festivals, lively restaurants and beautiful scenery for walking and cycling, Saint-Rémy has grown in popularity over the years. International buyers love the strong and friendly community, which is just one reason why setting up home here is favoured by English speakers.
“Saint-Rémy has a wonderful atmosphere and offers superb shopping, food and markets,” says Tim Swannie, Director of Home Hunts. “If you want to feel as though you’re in ‘real Provence’ and live an authentic Provençal lifestyle, this is a wonderful place to buy.”
At the Hotel de Tourrel, the historic former residence of the noble family Tourrel d’Almeran from Saint-Rémy you can book a table overlooking the rooftops of Saint-Rémy and the Alpilles for an unforgettable al fresco dining experience.
Buy a luxury property in La Croix-Valmer
If you’re looking for a medieval village close to the glamorous seaside resorts of the Côte d’Azur, La Croix-Valmer is a good choice.
“Despite being popular with tourists, this pretty village is renowned for having six beautiful sandy beaches, some buzzing restaurants and all the shops and leisure facilities you could need,” says Tim. “Many of our buyers are attracted to this area because it is relatively lively all year round and the tourism industry can provide some lucrative rental income opportunities, especially during the high season.”
This stunning five-bedroom property (HH-10945392) offers sensational sea views and is nestled among the pine trees, part of the Maures Massif, which border the town’s golden beaches.
A glorious beach-entry swimming pool, exquisite terraces for summer dining and immaculate interiors makes this property a wonderful second home, which could bring in plenty of extra rental income to help cover outgoings.
Take a private wine-tasting tour by helicopter
Staying in Aix-en-Provence offers you a taste of Parisian chic in deepest Provence, but the area is also not far from the departure point for a special fly and wine tour that flies guests over Provence’s vineyards by helicopter. The journey also takes in mountain Sainte Victoire and whisks you off to a private tour and tasting at a selected wine domaine.
The trip includes services of an English-speaking wine expert and transportation to and from your accommodation in a luxury vehicle.
Explore the Med in a private yacht
The Provence coast is renowned for being a little more rugged than the neighbouring Riviera, and while it is adored for being less showy than the Côte d’Azur there are still hundreds of luxurious things to do.
Le Lavandou, Cassis, Bandol and La Ciotat are all popular villages in the area, and Marseille, France’s second city, is in a class of its own. Those with a passion for yachting can really take advantage of the services offered along this coastline, and for exploring these stunning Mediterranean waters there really isn’t a more luxurious way than by yacht. If you aren’t lucky enough to own a yacht yourself, there are plenty of ways to privately charter the right vessel for you.
To discover prime properties for sale in these Provençal hotspots visit www.home-hunts.com, but to discuss your particular property requirements and the most suitable areas to buy in for your needs, call +33 (0)970 44 66 43.
