Villa Jolivet

The villa

Undoubtedly one of the finest quality restorations we've found on our travels in the South of France, Villa Jolivet is a 600 year old farmhouse saved from ruin, and reborn as a glorious fusion of modern luxury and rural tradition. After years of tireless dedication from the previous owners, this villa today offers all the mod cons and unique touches you could ever desire from a five star retreat. Stepping through the heavy wooden front doors you enter a large hall with it's own olive tree blooming up from the tiled floor. Across the kitchen, living and dining areas high stone or vaulted ceilings contrast exquisitely with the tasteful modern furnishings, and provide a constant reminder of the history that surrounds. Villa Jolivet sits on 40,000 square metres of private land in the verdant Languedoc countryside, conveniently located in seductive Vézénobres, between the Roman city of Nimes and the medieval stronghold of Uzes. For exhilarating excursions in the surrounding wilderness, there are four mountain bikes and two Quads for guests to use. Among the vast array of immaculately finished rooms, a few that stood out included the library with its fascinating collection of wise, old books, and grand stone fireplace. Then there's stylish cocktail room leading out to the garden, the cosy cinema room, and a well equipped modern gym that still manages to maintain the character of the building. Moving outside you are met with a breathtaking triumph of landscaping, as the long swimming pool stretches out before you, providing the focal point in a fully equipped garden of neat patios, lawns and rows of trees. Guests also have access to such outdoor luxuries as tennis and petanque courts, and a sheltered summer kitchen/lounge area with large custom BBQ. Villa Jolivet is a truly special villa rental, where no matter the size of your group there will be something for everyone. Why not book a stay now, and come find out what you'll love most about this one of a kind destination!

Villa Jolivet is located in the Gard department of southern France, just 7km north - east of Alès, the gateway to the Cévennes National Park. If not driving, fly into Nîmes Airport (60km), Avignon Airport (86km) or arrive via train into Alès (half an hour by train from Nîmes which has TGV arrivals from Paris). The nearest village is 1.5km away (you could walk down the country lanes in around 30 minutes) where there is a pharmacy, épicerie (grocery store) and a pizzeria just on the edge of the village set within an attractive park. There is a large supermarket just a little further, before reaching Alès (7km), the second largest town in the Gard department. The old Roman city of Nîmes (50km) is less than 50 minutes away. Often referrred to as the French Rome, Nimes is as a must see for those with an interest in history. Countless incredibly well preserved relics remain from the Roman Empire, including the Roman temple of Maison Carrée and of course the best preserved Roman amphitheatre in France dating back to the 1st or 2nd century AD. Pont du Gard (50km) is another highlight of the region, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Around 30 minutes away by car, at the source of the Eure, lies the medieval commune of Uzès (36km). The 11th century Tour Fenestrelle is a 42 metre high Romanesque tower that is the definitive landmark, and a must see on a trip to Uzès. The Saturday night market is also famous across the region, selling locally produced food, clothing and plenty of touristy delights.