La Maison Des Baronnies

The villa

Stay in an extraordinary villa surrounded by outstanding natural beauty perfectly positioned to experience the authenticity and rural charm of the Hautes - Alpes in southern France.

Set in a small countryside hamlet, this 17th century farmhouse has been brought back to life with a remarkable transformation by its artistic owners who rescued this derelict building over ten years ago. With a keen eye for detail, this architect - designed home now manages to show - case superb modern design alongside original features and is a truly unique and special place to stay.

Expect nothing less than designer furnishings, both contemporary and classic, high - end facilities and 21st century gadgets. In the main villa, each of the five bedrooms have been stylishly designed with en suite shower rooms, two also featuring rolltop baths. A sixth bedroom can be found in a small yet charming studio with its own well - equipped kitchenette and lounge area, ideal for one or two guests looking for a little extra privacy.

Come together and enjoy an al - fresco lunch in the shade of the ancient oak, by the wood - fired pizza oven and looking out towards the pine trees. Learn how to play petanque, sunbathe on one of the terraces or drink coffee as you gaze out to the mountains and appreciate the stunning scenery surrounding you. The glorious outdoors also features a heated swimming pool and an inviting hot tub, ideal for an evening star - gazing whatever the time of year. Perhaps followed by a drink from the honesty bar in the stone vaulted 17th century cellar.

Potter around nearby villages and towns, visiting traditional cafes, brocantes or local Farmer markets - the Thursday morning Provençal market in Laragne - Monteglin is particularly delightful. Admire the lavender fields dotted across the landscapes of this region and enjoy picnics and summer swimming by the shores of the River Büech. The turquoise - coloured water at the Gorges de la Méouge is especially beautiful with its cascades and gorgeous views.

In the Hautes - Alpes with its incredible natural beauty, La Maison Des Baronnies is in a wonderful area for lakeside picnics, fresh - water swimming, hiking and cycling alongside characterful market towns and even winter sports. In the foothills of the southern Alps, yet also close to the departments of Drôme and Alpes - de - Haute - Provence, enjoy the best of both worlds whilst really getting to know this authentic part of rural south - eastern France.

Set in a small hamlet in the countryside, at an altitude of 850m, the nearest restaurant - bar, grocery store and boulangerie can be found in a local village just a 10 - minute drive away or head to Veynes (20km) for a larger supermarket and a Thursday morning market selling fruit, vegetables and other regional produce. Serres (17km) hosts another traditional market on a Saturday morning which is also worth a visit. Furthermore, look out for weekend brocantes taking place in the summer months across nearby villages and towns.

Laragne - Monteglin (34km) is home to an atmospheric Provençal market on a Thursday morning selling all sorts of fantastic local delights as well as products made out of lavender which is grown in the Büech valley (you can follow the Routes de la Lavande during your stay). The town is also close to Plan d'Eau du Riou, a perfect spot for a picnic by the lake in beautiful surroundings.

Another idyllic place is Gorges de la Méouge (40km) with its riverside beaches and cascades or alternatively, slightly closer, Plan d’Eau de Veynes is a great place for kids with its inflatable water park, café and gorgeous scenery.

This region is also loved by rock - climbing enthusiasts and the village of Orpierre (35km) has gained a reputation for its many climbing opportunities. Other outdoor activities include fishing, hiking and cycling - La Tour de France often passes through the area.

As well as many of the area’s lakes, the River Buëch is also a popular place for local swimmers and pretty picnics. Just over an hour away, the famous Lac de Serre - Ponçon, in the Alps, offers a variety of watersports and yet more outstanding landscapes.