The background

If you were to pinpoint the epicentre of European elegance, sophistication and pastoral bliss, Provence would certainly be a contender. Composed of breadths of sun-soaked vineyards and lush lavender fields, the southeastern region of France is famed for its diverse vegetation, sweeping rural landscape and rich cultural history. Encompassing the vibrant cities of Marseille, Avignon and Roussillon, Provence boasts an endless array of cultural activity but the hidden treasures are found in the rolling fields of the French countryside.

The rural enclaves of Provence border the coastline of Côte d’Azur and offer visitors a tranquil, private haven while remaining connected by train links to the urban centres. With warm temperatures gracing the region for the majority of the year, the best time to visit is within the months of April and May and September to October as the weather is pleasantly dry and sunny, and the height of the tourism period has died down. The markets of Aix-en-Provence and the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape will allow you to indulge in the abundance of local organic produce and delight in the fruity palate of the region’s renowned wine appellations. For those who love to roam outdoors, journey through the Calanques National Park or near the Montagne Sainte-Victoire – on bike or on foot – to marvel at the breathtaking views that transport you to the sublime depths of a Cézanne painting.

The villa

Set in 100 hectares of private forest, villa La Combe is a restored Provençal bastide in the heart of the region’s green land. The luxury manor has seven bedrooms spread across three floors, as well as a separate two-bed guest cottage with a shared bathroom, living room and kitchenette. Downstairs, an open-plan living space leads into a pristine, well-equipped kitchen and a large dining table that can seat up to 20 guests. The private outdoor space opens out onto the vast terrain of the charming Provençal countryside, featuring a 32sqm gated swimming pool, additional infinity pool and pool house kitted out with a kitchen, barbecue and pizza oven. A daily maid service and an in-house cook can also be arranged, so not a single finger need be lifted.

The estate is plotted and designed with the heavenly scenery in mind. A sandy beach and private lake are just a stone’s throw from the main house, with equipment for paddle boarding and kayaks supplied, should adventure call. An enchanting clearing in the oak forest reveals a full-size, renovated tennis court as well as a helipad and a treehouse, suitable for children (and adults) to play and explore.

Just 4 kilometres from the estate is the nearby village of Callas, perched on a hilltop amid the ruins of a 13th-century château, where superb restaurants and weekend markets offer an authentic and refined taste of Provençal cuisine. The surrounding hills make up the Côtes de Provence – a celebrated wine region that’s home to some of the best rosé in the nation. Nearby, the Château d’Esclans (producer of UK-favourite, Whispering Angel) offers on-site tasting sessions for an exquisite experience in a winery par excellence. This holiday home may just be the pinnacle of European chic.

The details

La Combe is available from approx. £17,100 per week. Visit sjvillas.co.uk for more information and to book.