The villa
Beyond a sculpted stone arch, Mas des Grands Pins reveals itself as a charming 18th - century farmhouse, gracefully restored to offer contemporary comfort while preserving its Provençal soul. Enveloped by two acres of Mediterranean gardens dotted with olive trees, the house sits amid open countryside, where terraces invite alfresco dining and sweeping rural views set the scene for long, sunlit days.
Inside, a sense of considered elegance flows across three levels. Air - conditioned bedrooms provide restful retreats, from the first - floor master with its romantic four - poster and private balcony to the lower floor bedrooms with direct access to a shaded terrace. The kitchen, cool and contemporary, leads to a raised dining terrace overlooking with views towards the countryside. On the lower floor, a TV lounge with UK channels and an extensive DVD library offers a welcome respite after sunny afternoons by the pool.
The outdoor spaces are thoughtfully designed for both relaxation and togetherness. The 12 - metre pool glimmers beside a superb summerhouse with outdoor kitchen, dining and lounge areas. Table tennis and a boules court offer leisurely diversions, while multiple dining terraces provide space to gather over meals made from fresh local produce. Every facility is reserved exclusively for guests, and the discreet house managers (who live in an independent gatehouse) can assist with catering or babysitting on request.
Just a 15 - minute walk away lies the authentic village of Saint - Antonin - du - Var, where a bakery, wine outlets and a couple of restaurants (including a pizzeria run by the house managers) offer daily delights. Lorgues, with its vibrant Tuesday market and excellent dining scene, is a short drive, while the beaches of Sainte - Maxime and the glamour of Saint - Tropez await just over an hour away.
Mas des Grands Pins is an ideal base for groups seeking space, comfort and Provençal charm in equal measure. Whether dining beside the olive trees or cooling off in the shaded poolside lounge, this is a home where summer unfolds at an unhurried pace.
Set along a small country lane in the open countryside, just over 1km from the heart of Saint - Antonin - du - Var, Mas des Grands Pins invites guests to savour the gentle rhythms of southern France.
This Provençal village is brimming with character, where you’ll find a bakery, mini - market, hotel - bar/restaurant, a pizzeria (run by the house managers) and wine outlets - all within a 15 - minute stroll along country lanes (no pavement). Guests can also enjoy the convenience of electric car charging by the village coffee shop.
A 15 - minute drive brings you to the bustling market town of Lorgues (10km), famed for its colourful Tuesday market - one of the best in the region. Here, you’ll discover artisan stalls, fresh local produce and a wide selection of restaurants. On Fridays, a smaller market offers a more intimate taste of village life.
For further exploration, the picturesque towns of Entrecasteaux, Carcès, Cotignac, Flayosc and Tourtour provide idyllic day trips through the enchanting Var countryside, each with their own character and culinary delights.
Wine lovers are spoilt for choice, with numerous vineyards dotting the rolling hills around Saint - Antonin - du - Var and Lorgues. Take leisurely tours and sample acclaimed Côtes de Provence rosés amid vine - laced landscapes. For the more adventurous, head to Vidauban and enjoy canoeing or kayaking on the Argens River, a serene way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
For a change of pace, the glittering French Riviera awaits. Spend a sun - soaked day at the family - friendly beaches of Sainte - Maxime (50km), with ferries across the bay to glamorous Saint - Tropez (58km). Alternatively, explore the elegant town of Saint - Raphaël (48km), just an hour away, known for its palm - lined promenade, refined dining and Belle Époque charm.
Nature lovers will find inspiration heading north to Aups (22km), the gateway to the spectacular Verdon Gorge further afield. Discover dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters at Lac de Sainte - Croix (44km) - perfect for swimming, kayaking or hiking - all within an hour’s reach.