Provence is a fantastic place to visit at any time of year, there's always something to see and do, for everyone. The cultural centres of Aix and Avignon, a meander around the markets, a hike around the Luberon, rock climbing in Buoux, or maybe just a lazy gastronomic lunch.

Leisure Activities

Walking/cycling/mountain biking

Both houses are situated in open countryside and one can literally walk or cycle from the front door. There are extensive walking and cycling trails both in the Luberon National Park and nearer Aix around Mont St Victoire. Local maps are available at each property. Bicycles and mountain bikes can be booked in advance. www.provencetourism.com

Tennis

Both properties are 5 minutes away from good quality local tennis courts which are inexpensive and can be booked in advance. Should you require professional coaching: www.setclub.com

Horse-riding

Both at the Set Club as listed above (closer to Ferme du Val) or alternatively Chevaliers du Luberon close to Les Vallons. www.leluberon.com

Swimming

Both houses have excellent pools, however there are good swimming beaches around Cassis and La Ciotat, about an hour's drive South.

Spas/Health/Beauty

If the sun gets too much for you, there are two fabulous pampering spas.
www.thermes-sextius.com
www.greoux-les-bains.com

Tourism

Most guests don't tend to venture too far from the houses however there's a wealth of places to visit in the area if you feel so inclined. These include to the South: Marseille, the Port of Cassis, Calanques de Marseille, Cote Littoral and Les Iles de Porquerolles and to the North: Avignon, Mont Ventoux, Les Alpilles, Chateaux du Luberon, hilltop villages such as Bonnieux and Lacoste.

Also worthy of mention, are the famous Aix and Avignon festivals, details can be found on the websites. www.provenceguide.com
www.aixenprovencetourism.com
www.beyond.fr
www.provenceweb.fr

Shopping / Markets

For fabulous fresh produce, we strongly recommend you do as the locals do and make the most of the daily markets - les "marches paysans". They are also a great place to find gorgeous linens, pottery, spices and of course the local lavender products. Word of warning - everything shuts down around noon. However, fantastic produce can also be sourced from the local supermarkets. www.provence-des-papes.com

Both Aix and Avignon have an excellent array of shops and boutiques. www.provenceweb.fr

Restaurants

There are just too many to mention - a detailed list of restaurants is available in both properties. Please feel free to contact us if you would like us to book a restaurant in advance for a special occasion.
www.viamichelin.com
www.restaurant-guide.com

Golf

This area is renowned for its excellent golf courses, they have great restaurants too, it's quite normal to squeeze in a two hour lunch after the first nine...! We have special relationships with many clubs in the area but do recommend that bookings be made well in advance in high season. Sets of clubs are available for hire at the golf courses.
www.pont-royal.com
www.golf-du-luberon.com
www.aix-en-provence.com/golf-fuveau
www.lesbauxdeprovence.com

Wine

This is why we're here! (apart from the cuisine and the weather...) There are umpteen wine producing estates in the area, the two local appellations are Cotes du Luberon and Coteaux d'Aix en Provence. However, within an hour's drive one can visit fantastic domains in Chateauneuf du Pape and the Northern Rhone or alternatively the undiscovered gems of Bandol and Cassis to the South. We often organise wine tours for clients.

Furthermore we are very lucky to have close ties with John Arnold of A & B Vintners who is one of the leading UK merchants dealing in the South of France. Through them we can source fabulous wines that are not freely available and guarantee delivery ahead of your stay. Feel free to discuss your needs with John via the link.
www.abvintners.co.uk
www.terroir-france.com/wine/provence