Saint Rémy – Provence Emotional Escapes Blog https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog Provence Blog Luxury villa rentals & South of France holiday Tue, 04 Apr 2017 08:29:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.3.17 3 Places to see visit in Provence’s Alpilles https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/3-places-to-see-visit-in-provences-alpilles/ https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/3-places-to-see-visit-in-provences-alpilles/#respond Wed, 23 Mar 2016 17:32:16 +0000 https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/?p=1114   3 Places to see visit in Provence’s Alpilles marché Artisanal Nocturne des Créateurs Tous les mardis soirs du 25 juin au 10 septembre 2013 L’Office du Tourisme de Saint rémy de Provence organise un marché nocturne de créateurs 100% artisanal, tous les mardis soir de 19h00 à 24h00.Une cinquantaine d’ exposants au maximum sont […]

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3 Places to see visit in Provence’s Alpilles

marché Artisanal Nocturne des Créateurs

Tous les mardis soirs du 25 juin au 10 septembre 2013

L’Office du Tourisme de Saint rémy de Provence organise un marché nocturne de créateurs 100% artisanal, tous les mardis soir de 19h00 à 24h00.Une cinquantaine d’ exposants au maximum sont sélectionnés chaque mardi de façon rigoureuse dans un souci de recherche de et d’ originalité; seul les véritables créateurs ou artisans sont acceptés.

 

Route des Artistes de Saint Remy de Provence is a real market for outdoor Contemporary Art.

Every Sunday from the Route des Artistes, more than one hundred artists present their work on the boulevards surrounding the historic center.

From May 13 to October 1 event every month except July 12 mai 16 juin 4aout 8 septembre 6 octobre

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Things to do in Provence: Maussane-les-Alpilles https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/things-to-do-in-provence-maussane-les-alpilles/ https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/things-to-do-in-provence-maussane-les-alpilles/#respond Wed, 11 Mar 2015 14:13:50 +0000 https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/?p=2309 Things to do in Provence: Maussane-les-Alpilles

Things to do in Provence: Maussane-les-Alpilles     Nestled on the southern hillside of the Alpilles, Maussane is a typical and authentic provençal village in the vallée des Baux. It is well known for its olive production being one of the largest producers of olive oil in France with its 3 mills.     Olive […]

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Things to do in Provence: Maussane-les-Alpilles

Things to do in Provence: Maussane-les-Alpilles

 

 

Nestled on the southern hillside of the Alpilles, Maussane is a typical and authentic provençal village in the vallée des Baux. It is well known for its olive production being one of the largest producers of olive oil in France with its 3 mills.

 

 

Olive oil production in the Alpilles

 

Source: Torbakhopper

 

A questiion we sometimes get from guests at our luxury vacation rentals is: “How can you be sure you are tasting and buying quality olive oil whilst in Provence?”. As far as the Alpilles are concerned you will often find the AOP logo on the products of the vallée des Baux de Provence, it is earned as the result of conforming to a number of requirements. The first step towards earning the AOP label is proving the products merit to the INAO ( Institut National des Appellation d’ Origine), based on its geographic origins, specificity and production conditions.

The  recognized varieties of AOP olive oil in the Vallée des Baux, are the Grossane, Salonenque, Bouches du Rhône Verdale, Aglando olives, and Picholine to a maximum of 10%. The fruity green or fruity black oil varieties are obtained with the same olives. The difference is due to the time of maturation of the olives between harvesting and pressing.

Below is a link to one of the major olive producers in Maussane, you can visit their mill and production site whilst in the region:

Mas des Barres: www.masdesbarres.com

“Pressoir à olives à Maussane.” Source: Dominique Lenoir.

 

While  staying in a luxury vacation rental in Maussane, you should not miss visiting the market square with its fountain of the 4 seasons, as well as the adjoining streets cooled by small laundries and fountains, the Roman military terminals that line the road (Via Aurelia), the oratory dedicated to Saints honoured in Provence.

Source: Dominique Lenoir

 

 

A visit to early 1900s Provence.

On the 23rd August 2015, like every year Maussane turns back the course of the time. Travel back to years of  Marcel Pagnol and  Jean Giono, discover artists and craft markets, children’s games, folklore….

A “Lavoir” in Maussane. Source: GK Sens

For one day each summer the whole village returns to the early 1900s. If you happen to go through Maussane on this sunday, you will be welcomed by local inhabitants as well as professional comedians in traditional costumes bringing to life scenes from Provence’s heritage!

This day is dedicated to recreating an old fashioned atmosphere and to show what life was all about in those days. Lots of free activities and events  are sure to entertain the whole family.

 

 

 

 

 

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New luxury properties to Just Provence – January 2014 https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/new-luxury-properties-to-just-provence-january-2014/ https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/new-luxury-properties-to-just-provence-january-2014/#respond Wed, 29 Jan 2014 13:51:16 +0000 https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/?p=1908 New luxury properties to Just Provence – January 2014

New luxury properties to Just Provence – January 2014     Just Provence is proud to introduce the first new properties of 2014 in the most sought after locations of Provence. Keeping with our dynamic of 2013 we continue to extend our portfolio with properties of a high standard which will appeal to a variety […]

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New luxury properties to Just Provence – January 2014

New luxury properties to Just Provence – January 2014

 

 

Just Provence is proud to introduce the first new properties of 2014 in the most sought after locations of Provence. Keeping with our dynamic of 2013 we continue to extend our portfolio with properties of a high standard which will appeal to a variety of tastes from the rustic and traditional to the chic and contemporary.

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L’Arlésienne, near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.

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Mas l’Arlésienne is a charming, country holiday villa  within short driving distance of  the centre of the  market town of St-Rémy-de-Provence. Overlooking  the famous archaeological site of Glanum, this luxury vacation rental is perfect for a family looking to relax in mature gardens, lounging around a spacious swimming pool. This provençal mas can host up to 8 guests and benefits from air conditioning  throughout.

 

Domaine Marderic,an exclusive stone-built farm near Ansouis, Luberon.

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Domaine Marderic, is a beautiful stone-built vacation rental is set within 20hectares of private grounds including mature woodlands. With panoramic views over the south Luberon, this is a property where a large family can spread out and really take advantage of the surrounding nature.
And to complement all this rustic wonderment, the property has been lovingly renovated with all the mod cons needed to ensure that your stay will be a wonderful one for all the right reasons.

 

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4 Unmissable Summer Provençal traditions https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/4-unmissable-summer-provencal-traditions/ https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/4-unmissable-summer-provencal-traditions/#respond Mon, 12 Aug 2013 14:55:30 +0000 https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/?p=1582 4 Unmissable Summer Provençal traditions

4 Unmissable Summer Provençal traditions.   In the  summer, you have the opportunity to do a lot of activities. Why not go deeper in Provence’s culture, living its traditions ?  We offer you our selection of  four unmissable Provençal summer traditions.  Les Feux de la Saint Jean, a fiery summer festival. At first a pagan […]

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4 Unmissable Summer Provençal traditions

4 Unmissable Summer

Provençal traditions.

 

In the  summer, you have the opportunity to do a lot of activities. Why not go deeper in Provence’s culture, living its traditions ?  We offer you our selection of  four unmissable Provençal summer traditions.

 Les Feux de la Saint Jean, a fiery summer festival.

At first a pagan cult, it was from the  5th century that the Church converted this celebration into a holiday in  the honour  of Saint John the Baptist. The « Saint Jean »  became a popular holiday where everyone met  in both joy and friendship to welcome the « good season ». Nowadays, towns light their fires with the Canigou’s flame at 10pm. Each locality organizing its festivities  with its own programme (traditional animations with the presentation of  Provençal costumes,  blessing of the flame,  Mass, etc.).

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Credit: Blackstones707

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Les Fêtes de la Saint Eloi.

            Saint Eloi is very popular in Provence, patron saint of goldsmiths and of craftspersons working metals (blacksmiths farriers,..). He is also the protector of pack animals. The « cavalcade » is the central point of this big popular “fête”. Indeed, the «charrettes feuillues», floats decorated with young elm branches, are pulled by about 30 work horses as a souvenir of the time when these animals were used for work and transport. These wagons are  accompanied by  inhabitants wearing the typical costumes of Provence and by provençal music. Villages and towns can add their own programme : mass, abrivados…

 

The « Abrivados ».

Abrivados in Camargue.
credit: T.Lilly

It started as a tradition where bulls were guided from the pastures to the arenas, under the scrutiny of their herdsmen. During the crossing of the villages, some young people (the « atrapaïre ») would try to free the bulls for fun. Therefore the herdsmen made their bulls cross  the village in a gallop. It nowadays is a much attended event, and  is organized during summer feasts in many Provencal towns. The streets are blocked to prevent the bulls from escaping. The atrapaïre still attempt to free the bulls as the herdsmen have to show their dexterity in controlling the bulls. Rest assured no animals or injured in this cross village chase.

15th August  – Fête de l’Assomption

            This is not  typically Provencal in essence, but it is too important a holiday not to be noted here. This date is first and foremost a religious feast celebrating  The Virgin Mary’s Assumption, it was for a long time France’s National Day (it is coincidently Napoleon’s birthday) before being replaced by the 14th July. After Mass, parishes organize  colourful traditional processions, whilst  villages and towns run  antique fairs, banquets and firework displays open to all. It is worth enquiring at the nearest Mairie or Office du Tourisme on planned events when staying in Provence in mid-August as this a highly popular holiday and will see very large numbers of attendees.

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Do you have a favourite Provençal summer holiday we have not mentioned here? A quirky festival you would never miss or well kept secret tradition you have attended and would like to share? Do not hesitate to leave a comment under this article, we would be happy to read about your experience.

View large properties in Provence

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Where to plan your destination wedding in Provence. https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/where-to-plan-your-destination-wedding-in-provence/ https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/where-to-plan-your-destination-wedding-in-provence/#respond Wed, 06 Feb 2013 10:42:05 +0000 https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/?p=709 Where to plan your destination wedding in Provence.

Destination Weddings in Provence.   This article was inspired by another article entitled: destination wedding mythbusters which raised the  crucial points that destination weddings were not more expensive, nor complicated to organise and offered the advantage of doubling as honeymoon destinations. In this article we will look into how organising your wedding in Provence can […]

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Where to plan your destination wedding in Provence.

Destination Weddings in Provence.

 

This article was inspired by another article entitled: destination wedding mythbusters which raised the  crucial points that destination weddings were not more expensive, nor complicated to organise and offered the advantage of doubling as honeymoon destinations. In this article we will look into how organising your wedding in Provence can be a variety of experiences beyond but not excluding the restrictive postcard image of lavenders, sunshine and cicadas.

The Côtes Du Rhône region.

The village of Grignan © Josette Grinand

 

Provence is famous for many produces from olive oil to cicadas printed napkins. But among its noblest of products is the world renowned Côtes du Rhône wines. As mentioned in a previous article, Vaucluse has been once again recognised in 2012 for the quality of its fine wines. Planning a wedding in North Vaucluse  not only means that you’ll be able to welcome friends and family in the heart of  these exclusive vineyards but also that you will have at hand beautiful sites such as Les Dentelles-de-Montmirail, the “Giant of Provence” that is Mont Ventoux or historically rich towns such as Vaison-la-Romaine or Orange.

Weddings are festive  occasions where your loved ones travel to gather and share your joy. By choosing an exclusive holiday rental in the heart of Provence you will ensure that not only will they have a wonderful time during the wedding but will also be able to visit a beautiful region and enjoy its products.

Belfonds near Grignan.

 

North Vaucluse is very versatile in the themes it can bring to your wedding and honeymoon. You can choose organise a chic wedding reception in a “domaine” near Grignan with  Mme de Sévigné’s romantic 17th century as backdrop or add  wine tasting tours to the occasion with the famous vineyards of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas, Valréas within a short drive. Treat yourself and your guests to not only a trip to Provence but a voyage through the flavours of rich and exquisite wines sought the world over.

The colourful Carpentras market.

North Vaucluse is one of the most historically rich regions of Provence and gives many options to choose from for your wedding photo shoots from the steps of the popes’ palace in Avignon to the Roman ruins of Vaison-la-Romaine. Planning your wedding in Provence will mean that local caterers will supply you with home grown produce from this agriculturally rich part of France, the owners of holiday rentals that can accommodate wedding receptions will direct you towards services and the possibilities the properties offer.

 

 Luberon

The village of Gordes.

 

The Luberon offers a wonderful setting for a romantic hide-away honeymoon in the heart of a UNESCO recognised National Park doted with perched villages from which you  can choose to stay or visit. A great choice for a more rural wedding, the splendid views of rolling hills, lavender and poppy fields as you exit  a small Provençal chapel greeted by your loved ones.

Planning your wedding in Luberon means you will be a short drive the  history rich capital that is Avignon or the large market town of Apt whilst being in a quiet and idyllic part of Provence which has proudly retained its Provençal heritage of stone-built houses, winding streets, charming “cabanons” and isolated monasteries dotting the hillsides. What could be better then spending your honeymoon in such a peaceful setting, overlooking the Luberon Valley with only the endless horizon greeting you, every morning.

 

 Les Alpilles

Mont Sainte Victoire ©atelier-cézanne

 

“Les Alpilles” is  a mountain range  Provence and gives its name  southernmost region of  inland Provence and as inspired world famous artists like Cézanne, Picasso, Gauguin and famously Van Gogh who spent time in Arles and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. The famous impressionist was inspired by the colours and beauty of this region. The Mont Sainte Victoire was Cézanne’s favourite subject having painted it 60 times, it most certainly won’t leave you indifferent.

Les Alpilles shares with Vaucluse a strong Roman Heritage and like Luberon has been -and still is- home to many artists. It has a close access to the sea and the regional capital that is the city of Marseille whilst being quietly nestled in a low mountain range.

By planning your wedding in Les Alpilles you could embed the occasion in artistic influence with views from Cézanne’s paintings and colours that inspired Van Gogh enabling you and your guests to literally walk in pictures only seen in the great Art Museums of the world.

 

Planning your destination

wedding in Provence

Mas des Couleurs a rental property specially dedicated to large receptions.

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Now the strong points of various destinations in Provence have been laid out you can consider renting a holiday villa in the South of France  to host your wedding and honeymoon. Enjoy the comfort of a home: privacy, exclusive setting and modern comfort whilst being able to plan your stay as you wish. Whether you wish to live like a local,  experience an intensive tour of this beautiful region or simply enjoy the sun by your private pool.

Just Provence has an extensive portfolio of properties from the isolated mas for a romantic honeymoon in the Luberon or a luxurious farmhouse near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence that can welcome up to 20 friends and family to enjoy the week leading to or following  your wedding. We will be more than happy to help you pick the destination for your once-in-a-lifetime emotional escape in Provence.

If you have any questions or comments do not hesitate to leave a message or contact me at: [email protected].

Dylan

 

 

 

 

 

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5 family friendly outings in Roman Provence. https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/5-family-friendly-outings-in-roman-provence/ https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/5-family-friendly-outings-in-roman-provence/#respond Thu, 27 Dec 2012 09:43:23 +0000 http://justprovence.wordpress.com/?p=493 5 family friendly outings in Roman Provence.

5 family friendly outings in Roman Provence.   The first things that come to mind when thinking of Provence are olives, wine and lavender. These three key produces of the region have been trademark productions of the area for over 2000 years and all three of them were introduced by the Greeks and the Romans. […]

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5 family friendly outings in Roman Provence.

5 family friendly outings in Roman Provence.

 

The first things that come to mind when thinking of Provence are olives, wine and lavender. These three key produces of the region have been trademark productions of the area for over 2000 years and all three of them were introduced by the Greeks and the Romans. The name Provence, derives from the Roman name “Provincia Nostra” which means “our province”. Therefore everything essentially Provençal by nature is deeply linked to its antique origins and the Greco-Roman civilization that would shape Mediterranean culture forever.

In the holiday rental industry, the term villa in itself has retained its Roman definition, meaning a luxurious country home. One of the appeals of staying in an exclusive vacation rental is the “live like a local ” experience.  If you are planning on staying in Provence why not go a step further and live like a Roman? This is our attempt at a quick guide to making your visit to Provence a truly exotic, enriching and awe inspiring experience back in time. Maybe like Jean-Jacques Rousseau visiting the Pont du Gard  in 1738 you will also say :

Why was I not born a Roman!

 

  • Pont du Gard

Undoubtedly the most famous Roman built monument of Southern France, the  2000 years old this UNESCO protected aqueduct has inspired generations of visitors through the centuries. It the best preserved and tallest Roman building in Europe, since 2000 it has a visitor centre and museum with activities and information for the whole family. There are amenities on sight and the proximity to Uzés makes this architectural marvel a must-see  visit to Provence.

In the summer the site of the Pont du Gard is host to music festivals and firework displays of excellent quality.

 

  • Orange
Théatre antique d’Orange
Source: Isawnyu

Orange boasts a superb 2000 year old Roman theatre, which features a 37m high theatre wall.  The theatre was within a century of the establishment of this Roman colony and survived through the centuries. Nowadays it has been returned to its original use and hosts operas, choir festivals and concerts. Like the Romans themselves you can visit the town centre its market and amenities, and at night enjoy a meal at the troglodyte theatre’s restaurant  before a wonderful spectacle in this architectural gem of Ancient times.

The town has museums and visitor centres the whole family can enjoy and a perfectly preserved Triumphial Arch.

 

  •  Vaison-la-Romaine

Through the progressive romanisation of the local Celtic tribes of Provence, Vasio became one of  the most important towns of Roman Provence. Being a great example of successful Gallo-Roman culture it boasts large villas with rich mosaics, a well preserved theatre and 1st century Ad Roman bridge still used to this day. Remains of a Roman temple can be seen at the cathedral, one of the oldest in France. The museum of  Vaison-la-Romaine  for 2013 has prepared a 3D experience to recreate life in Roman Vasio you can view the trailer (in French) below.

The old town is also charming with its  medieval castle and winding streets.

 

  •  Arles

Arelate as it was named by the Romans was inhabited by Ligurians since 800AD. It has been visited by famous figures of Rome like Julius Caesar or emperor Constantine I. Today much of Roman Arles remains and is in use like the impressive arenas for example. The ancient Mills, Arenas, museums are worth visiting and truly remarkable. The town puts on Roman themed festivals in the summer with gladiator displays, equestrian presentations  and re-enactments. You can even take gladiator classes from September to April.

Arles’ amphitheatre / arenas
source: J-L Zimmermann

 

  •  Glanum
Les Antiques in Glanum

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, arguably the most sought after location in Provence, is historically an offspring of a much older settlement known as Glanum. This Gallo-Roman town is rich with exceptional historical monuments such as the Triumphal Arch and the Julii Mausoleum commonly known as “Les Antiques”. To complete your Roman experience in Glanum you can visit the Taberna Roman, a Roman tavern neighbouring the archaeological site offering Roman menus and setting.

This list could include a host of other locations from renowned Nîmes to the less known Laudun with its Caesar camp and ancient ruins, but the locations listed above are the most family friendly and immersive Ancient sites of Provence. Have you visited Gallo-Romans sites in the South of France, any we have forgotten that you think is worthy of our top 5? Do not hesitate to leave a comment.

If you have any questions or comments do not hesitate to leave a message or contact me at: [email protected].

Dylan

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Finding the perfect location for your luxury vacation rental in Provence. https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/finding-the-perfect-location-for-your-luxury-vacation-rental-in-provence/ https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/finding-the-perfect-location-for-your-luxury-vacation-rental-in-provence/#comments Mon, 03 Dec 2012 11:26:27 +0000 http://justprovence.wordpress.com/?p=414 Finding the perfect location for your luxury vacation rental in Provence.

Finding the perfect location for your luxury vacation rental in Provence.     People looking for accomodations on the Just Provence site search through our portfolio of exclusive rental properties and get attracted by the high quality photos, as they pick through the list for the perfect setting for their family’s vacation in Provence. After this process,  questions we are often asked are: where […]

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Finding the perfect location for your luxury vacation rental in Provence.

Finding the perfect location for your luxury vacation rental in Provence.

 

 

People looking for accomodations on the Just Provence site search through our portfolio of exclusive rental properties and get attracted by the high quality photos, as they pick through the list for the perfect setting for their family’s vacation in Provence. After this process,  questions we are often asked are: where is this property located, how far is it from the nearest village, Avignon or a famous landmark and, will this vacation rental be a good base camp for excursions? In this article we’ll look at how you can determine if a location will fit your needs.

There are few straight roads in Provence.

One important factor to take into account when planning your visits in Provence is that Provence itself is delimited by the River Rhône and mountain ranges, the Alpilles, Mont Ventoux and Luberon to name the most prominent. This means that travelling around the region will enable you to discover wonderful natural sites but also a lot of winding roads and curves. The region around Avignon is very well served in dual carriageways and motorways. But quaint medieval Provençal villages, that the area is famous for, have kept their character by being off those main roads. These are the places you might want to visit.

This factor of time spent travelling between points of interest will weigh heavilly on your choice of holiday rental destination.

Your time is precious.

The average stay in Provence in peak season is 2 weeks. In those 14 days you will want to see it all and enjoy the  “Must See” places that you have pin-pointed while planning your stay. Places you could associate with a holiday in Provence could be daily colourful markets, visiting a village you have seen in “A Good Year” with Russell Crowe, the magnificent millenia old Pont du Gard or touring the Côtes du Rhône villages for that wine experience you have anticipated for years. You will have to consider if they fit in your tight schedule and if they require a day trip, an afternoon or just a quick visit as you cycle by.

Click to enlarge.

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You can use the search function on the  Just Provence website to sort properties by location. This also allows you to enter detailed requirements as for example chosing between a country home or a vacation villa near a village.

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Click to view in full size

In order to help you pick the ideal location for your stay in Provence, I have made this very simple map (thank you Google!). It highlights 4 important cultural centres of Provence, Uzés, Avignon, Saint Rémy de Provence and Apt.  Avignon being the gravitation point since it benefits from a fast train station, two motorway exists and an airport.

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Chances are Avignon will be your point of arrival in Provence whether you come in from Paris, London or Marseille. As you can see, all four centres are within a 30 minute to an hour radius of each other. Which means, for example, that when you pick any location in the red circle you will be able to plan, at least, a day out in these areas with ample time for visiting, enjoying restaurants and then getting home safely with time to spare.

During your stay it is a good idea to book a private tour, so an English-speaking driver guides you around the places of interest you choose without the hassle of driving around with your eyes focussed on the GPS instead of enjoying your visit of Provence.

 

Picking the ideal location saves you time and money.

Planning Vacation + Perfect Location = Time Saved

As I mentioned in a previous post on planning your stay in Provence in advance, it is essential to make a short list of things you would definitely want to see and do during your visit so as to plan a memorable emotional escape in the South of France. By giving the location careful thought when choosing an exclusive rental properties you will ensure your stay goes as smoothly as possible.

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Do you have a favourite destination in Provence? Have you already considered a list of things to do and visit on your next trip? We’d like to hear from you.

If you have any questions or comments do not hesitate to leave a message or contact me at: [email protected].

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Why you should plan your vacation in Provence early. https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/vacation-rentals-booking-advance-provence/ https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/vacation-rentals-booking-advance-provence/#comments Tue, 20 Nov 2012 14:04:07 +0000 http://justprovence.wordpress.com/?p=326 Why you should plan your vacation in Provence early.

Why you should plan your vacation in Provence early.   With the economic climate being as it is, hotels and holiday resorts see an increase in last-minute bookings. Does this mean the trend nowadays is to plan and pack a week before leaving on the holiday you’ve been anticipating all year? In the case of […]

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Why you should plan your vacation in Provence early.

Why you should plan your vacation in Provence early.

 

With the economic climate being as it is, hotels and holiday resorts see an increase in last-minute bookings. Does this mean the trend nowadays is to plan and pack a week before leaving on the holiday you’ve been anticipating all year? In the case of vacation rentals and specifically in Provence I would strongly advise against it. If you want your stay in Provence to be the experience of a lifetime you have to know exactly what you want from your trip and therefore make every effort to get exactly that.
Planning to stay in an exclusive vacation rental is about experiencing Provence like a local, enjoying life in the South of France at your own rhythm. This can only be achieved if you set exact objectives for your emotional escape, and pinpoint key features of your stay that must be fulfilled.

 

Les Alpilles

 

  •  Know when you want to go.

“A Year From Now You Will Wish You Had Started Today” – Karen Lamb

This quote has been used over and over on the Web, and I unapologetically use it here. Because it applies perfectly to vacation planning especially regarding 2013 in Provence. Rental property owners love nothing more than early bookings, it allows them to plan their rental’s occupation, plan for the staff required to keep the property running in the coming season and also to plan for improvements on their property year after year. They will go out of their way to make sure  their guests are well cared for months in advance by preparing cots and high chairs for families for example. Whereas a booking made a month prior to arrival in the height of peak season will be considered with urgency rather than concern for their clients.

One important event to take into account in 2013 is the Tour de France visiting Mont Ventoux on the 13th of July. Which means that not only will it coincide with a National holiday but that the fortnight from the 7th to 20th of July are already being booked by cycling enthusiasts. So even if you have no interest in cycling but were planning to visit Avignon in early July you will face competition for this spot in the sun.

  • Know where you want to go.

Eygalières

Provence is a region with a rich variety of locations from the busy city of Avignon to the quiet out-of-the-way medieval village of Le Barroux. There is a full spectrum of locations that are the dream destinations to fit everyone’s taste. One must also take into account that some otherwise unremarkable villages are actually the highest sought after hot spots during the summer time. Good examples of this are Oppède-le-Vieux, Ménerbes, Eygalières

Whether you want to be near a cultural centre like Saint-Rémy-de-Provence or in the midst of the Luberon National Park to enjoy Provence’s flora and fauna whilst visiting quaint medieval villages, you would do well to book in advance even if you don’t plan on coming in peak season (June-August).

The greatest advantages of booking a vacation rental are that you get privacy, autonomy and services that hotels don’t offer at similar rates, whether you are travelling as a couple or a large group of family or friends. These benefits are true in any of our exclusive vacation rentals but if you want the experience to be truly exceptional it has to be in a location that suits your needs. That can only be ensured through early bookings.

  • Know what you want to do.

Provence has a great appeal worldwide because it offers a high quality choice of activities and services. Whether you are planning wine touring for a week, discovering roman ruins, improving your Golf or touring the local markets and indulging your foodie needs, Provence is the best place to be.

Mas Dolce Vita in Vaison-la-Romaine

Although the activities listed above are enjoyable within an hour radius from any of the vacation villas listed on our site, it is important to note that the nearer you are to your chosen interest, the more time you will spend enjoying these activities. If you pick a villa in Vaison-la-Romaine for example you will be just minutes away from renowned vineyards, fantastic roman sites and the Mont Ventoux, but 50 minutes from the nearest 18 hole golf course or the UNESCO recognised Luberon National Park.

Trips abroad are very personal adventures, emotional escapes that each traveller matures prior to experiencing it. They are very rarely a whim of the moment’s decisions. They are dreams that require careful preparations so that once they are fulfilled they are truly exceptional. This is what Just Provence strives to offer through our portfolio and to ensure it happens, early booking is essential.

Do you have any experience of  planning a stay in Provence or France? Did you book your accomodation early?
Living locally I get the chance to try new wines, restaurants and attractions all round the year. But in your opinion where is the most convenient  location to stay in to get a all round experience in Provence?

Further reading, this article: “Finding The Ideal Gîte in the Vaucluse: Reserve Your Own Private Provencal Lifestyle Early” by Provence Ventoux Blog is a useful guide to planning your stay in Provence.

If you have any questions or comments do not hesitate to leave a message or contact me at: [email protected].

See you soon.

Dylan

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Pet Friendly luxury holiday rentals in Provence https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/pet-friendly-properties-in-provence/ https://provence.emotional-escapes.com/blog/pet-friendly-properties-in-provence/#respond Sat, 22 Oct 2011 17:13:12 +0000 http://justprovence.wordpress.com/?p=175 Pet Friendly luxury holiday rentals in Provence

Pet Friendly luxury holiday rentals in Provence   As part of our recent partnership with Paws Abroad, Emotional Escapes has established a list of pet friendly vacation rentals. Specific conditions regarding the pets in the property are detailed in the vacation rental’s description page. The description and location pages can be accessed by clicking on […]

Cet article Pet Friendly luxury holiday rentals in Provence est apparu en premier sur Provence Emotional Escapes Blog.

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Pet Friendly luxury holiday rentals in Provence

Pet Friendly luxury holiday rentals in Provence

 

As part of our recent partnership with Paws Abroad, Emotional Escapes has established a list of pet friendly vacation rentals.
Specific conditions regarding the pets in the property are detailed in the vacation rental’s description page. The description and location pages can be accessed by clicking on their names in the list below. This non-exhaustive list is classified by ascending order of capacity.

Two-bedroom properties

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Three-bedroom properties

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Four-bedroom properties

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Five-bedroom properties

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Lavendin in Eygalières.

 

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Six-bedroom properties

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Seven-bedroom properties

Chateau d’Orgon close to Eygalières.

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Eight- to ten-bedroom properties

Domaine de Roussan

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