ALL YEAR ROUND
Just whisper the word Provence and images of endless lavender fields and evenings spent watching the sun go down with a bottle of wine spring to mind. With so many preconceptions (and such popularity) we know that discovering the perfect Provence can be tricky. Heaven forbid you to arrive to find that your cottage is more shabby than chic and that the village is overrun by tourists clutching dog-eared copies of Peter Mayle's bestseller.
Well, no need to worry - we've found the perfect hideaway to make your peaceful Provencal dreams a reality. Chateau des Aspras, just over an hour from Nice, is the critics (and definitely our) choice. Widely regarded as 'the most beautiful house to rent in the South of France', this stunning, private chateau has everything you could possibly need plus that essential je ne sais quoi. Rest assured, no one will be doing the South of France quite like you.
The exclusive property is nestled high in the Provence hills, with breathtaking views over the surrounding valley, not to mention your private vineyards and olive groves. Built in 1860, its grand stone facade gives way to an elegant and spacious interior with bedrooms and bathrooms enough for all your friends and family. There's a swimming pool, croquet lawn and tennis court for your personal use as well as a sunny terrace for leisurely outdoor dining. With local produce on the doorstep and at least four wine producers in the region you don't need an excuse to open a bottle or two... or indeed three with dinner, cooked of course by the in-house chef.
Should you manage to tear yourself away from your luxurious surrounds there's no shortage of stylish diversions in the area. First up are the beaches, less than an hour away by car and perfect for spending a sophisticated afternoon shopping and mingling with the coastal crowd - or stuffing yourself full of pastries at a promenade café. Closer to home, the pretty village of Corren (population: 600) is just a kilometre from the chateau and you can find golf, fishing and riding all within a short distance. All in all we reckon you can't beat hangout time in Provence, whether on the beach, in your chateau, or wandering through the sunflowers.
