Maison Noble

The villa

A bundle of special memories is sure to be created at this stunning holiday retreat, in a beautiful setting only a short drive from a picturesque village in Provence’s idyllic Les Alpilles Natural Park.

Six characterful bedrooms comfortably sleep twelve guests and there is plenty of space for your group to mingle or seek a moment of peace with a glass of wine and enjoy the sensual delights of this region. Beautiful stone floors grace every room and there is a plethora of art work and carefully chosen furniture to please the eye as well as all those modern comforts necessary for a relaxing holiday. The living areas and three of the bedrooms have patio doors enabling the outside space of terrace and gardens to blend seamlessly with the interior.

Leave the air-conditioned rooms to step outside and lounge by the heated pool next to the red blaze of the oleanders or beneath the shade of the olive trees and scented jasmine covered bower. Sip an aperitif as you prepare a meal in the outside kitchen and watch the evening light fade over the iconic landscape of olive trees as you dine on the terrace.

When you are ready to explore further afield this whole region is filled with vineyards, orchards, summer sunflowers, idyllic villages and world-renowned towns. Les Alpilles Natural Park provides plenty of opportunity for nature lovers and those looking for more active pursuits such as rock climbing, horse-riding, mountain biking and walking in the glorious landscape.

In the heart of the park is nearby Mausanne, a lovely village nested at the foot of the mountain range and renowned for the superb olive oil produced in its two remaining windmills. Les-Baux de-Provence is classified as one of France’s Plus Beaux Villages with its pretty squares, narrow streets, fortified chateau and some beautiful walking trails around the village and beyond.

The historic town of Arles is very accessible and, for a dramatic change of landscape, it’s easy to reach the 900 square kilometres of La Camargue with its wild countryside, beaches, lagoons, rice fields, galloping white horses and pink flamingos. So many activities can be found here ranging from trekking and quad biking to jeep tours across this fascinating terrain.

Maison Noble is one of a cluster of villas set in a rural location only a five-minute drive away from a picturesque village in the heart of the Provence des Alpilles. Here you will find ancient stone houses built from local fifteenth century quarries, a small museum, restaurants, a pretty church, and some rosemary and thyme scented walks amongst the surrounding hills of olives, oaks and pines. You are situated here in the heart of this astounding area of vineyards, idyllic villages, world-renowned towns, and summer landscapes of sunflowers both in Les Alpilles Natural Park and beyond.

Mausanne-les-Alpilles (10km), set in the Vallée des Baux, is a delightful village in the heart of the park, surrounded by beautiful countryside. Fine olive oil is produced in its two remaining windmills which visitors are invited to sample alongside some of the region’s other fine gourmet produce such as cheese and honey. Every Friday painters, sculptors and other artists exhibit in the central square until the sun sets.

Les Baux-de-Provence (11km) is classified as one of France’s ' Plus Beaux Villages' . Explore its pretty squares, narrow streets and little shops, then wander around the fortified-chateau. This small village and its ruined castle are known as the stars of the Alpilles. Set on a rocky spur it has panoramic views across the Crau plain, the Camargue and the city of Arles. The adventurous can find some beautiful walking trails around the village and beyond or visit the surrounding vineyards and olive groves to sample yet more of the region’s fine foods.

Tarascon (13km) is a pleasant historical Provencal town situated between Arles and Avignon on the banks of the River Rhône. Explore its medieval lanes, sunny flower filled squares and the chateau which has been built on the remains of a Roman castrum. There are a couple of museums here, one of which is dedicated to the character Tartarin, a popular character in Provencal literature. Afterwards you deserve to find a pleasant terrace café for a drink or two.

St-Rémy-de-Provence (19km) is the place to visit if you want to take home a piece of artwork - many artists live in the area and display or sell their works of art in the village galleries. Vincent Van Gogh stayed at the asylum in St Paul de Mausole, which can be visited today. On selected Sundays in the summer months, the ‘Route des Artistes’ is filled with local artists showing off their work, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The town is also famous for its many restaurants, from homely bistros to Michelin starred establishments and there is an excellent food market on Wednesday mornings.

The wonderful city of Arles (9km) is known for its fine architecture and fascinating Roman remains, particularly the Amphitheatre which now hosts plays and concerts. Vincent Van Gogh loved this city which inspired over 500 works of art during his short time here, including the famous Café la Nuit depicting the Place du Forum. The city is full of museums and galleries and there is a great market on a Saturday morning. Food lovers will also appreciate the wonderful dining opportunities from pavement cafes to fine food establishments.

Arles is a seductive stepping stone into the 900 square kilometres of La Camargue with its wild countryside, beaches, lagoons, rice fields, galloping white horses and pink flamingos. So many activities can be found here ranging from riding, trekking and quad biking to jeep tours across this fascinating terrain.