Real Provence

New for 2012

2012-01-18T11:47:00.003+01:00

Provence is looking its very best with clear blue skies and the heat of the sun at mid day giving a hint of the Spring warmth to come.

For 2012 we’ve put together some new and interesting ideas which we hope will tempt you to visit this lovely part of France. In addition to our ever popular self drive Lavender Holidays, we've made some itinerary changes, and reduced prices on our Discover Provence Self Drive Holiday and our Tour & Walk in the Luberon Holiday. And all our self drive holidays have some interesting add-on extensions if you have more time. Our brand new Alpilles & Camargue holiday is still in the planning stage so check out the website for developments on this one.

Back to dogs

2012-01-02T13:12:00.002+01:00

Anybody?

And finally

2012-01-02T13:06:00.006+01:00

Naughty and discerning?

This guy is ten kilos if he's pound so perhaps.....

And another

2012-01-02T12:57:00.004+01:00

This is getting weird

Anybody fancy a translation? An impressionable cat ????

And then this one

2012-01-02T12:53:00.005+01:00

Just around the corner ...

No we don't know either

2012-01-02T12:40:00.005+01:00

On a recent walk through the village of Goult we came upon these signs which brought us up a little.

A Sunday walk

2011-12-01T15:38:00.006+01:00

Glorious sunshine for a Sunday walk from Cereste along the ridge to the lovely village of Montjustin with superb views right across the eastern end of the Luberon valley to the southern Alps in the far distance. The superb weather continues it seems like forever......

Another RP find!

2011-11-24T08:14:00.005+01:00

Always on the look out for venues open in the winter, we happened upon the Sonograf, just outside Ilse sur la Sorgues.

http://www.lesonograf.fr

Le Sonograf is a music venue and supper club offering what we think is great combination. Last Friday we went along to see Nine Below Zero, a band that came to prominence in the eighties but it could have been last year for all that it matters. We paid €30 for the evening with three course supper and even a free drink, together with a bottle of beaujolais nouveau for an extra €10, we found it incredible value.

http://www.real-provence.com/history-art-music.htm

A lively evening in Marseille

2011-10-24T19:47:00.003+02:00

The Fiesta des Suds down in the docks in Marseille. A fantastic evening of live bands and street food to keep you going all evening. The energetic Banda du Dock had everyone dancing in the aisles. Superb music and great fun.

Real Provence gave you the "Septemberists"

2011-10-16T20:11:00.010+02:00

Now we have the "Octoberists"!

We sneaked out of the office on Friday to have lunch in Lourmarin and make a few market purchases. Turned out we were there with a few others. Well a cast of hundreds at least. The fantastic weather has to end sometime but no sign yet.

Was it hot? These ladies found it so!

Yes that is a table mat tied on with ...

Sorry but couldn't resist that shot

By clicking on the blog title we take you to the Real Provence web site.

Getting to the end of the season

2011-09-19T13:12:00.003+02:00

Though you'd hardly know it. We've had two bad days since the middle of July and temperatures are still in the 30's. Our "off" season begins at the start of November when the Luberon is very tranquil, some love this time whilst some of our owners head for holiday destinations themselves down under.

Our autumn pricing is generally very competitive so if you fancy that late getaway don't forget to check our prices & availability. For the latest availability and other dates check our Prices & Availability page.

To hand pick or not?

2011-09-15T16:25:00.005+02:00

As we were walking out this fine morning on what should be but isn't, our daily constitutional, we came upon this fine crop.

What makes this shot interesting is the condition of the fruit. Like 90% of the producers around here in the Luberon this vineyard mechanically picks the grapes. Now our good friends the winemakers at Domaine Fav maintain that to get the best results everything has to be handpicked in order to only take the perfect bunches leaving out the dried up or mouldy stuff. Makes a lot of sense. What makes this shot interesting is that the vineyard has been up and down the rows cutting out the less than perfect bunches and cutting back the foliage. Very clever, minimum labour cost on the hand picking, maximum speed in the cool of the morning which is needed for the white and the rosé wine.

Art in the open air

2011-08-15T09:56:00.005+02:00

Photographs of the natural surroundings and local wildlife.

Or looking the other way, over the edge of the terrace at Sault, the beautiful natural surroundings for real.

Storm clouds over Bandol

2011-08-10T15:13:00.004+02:00

The harbour at Bandol and pretty fishing boats - perhaps even more photogenic under these low clouds after a storming morning over the Mediterranean.

The best view in the Vaucluse?

2011-08-05T13:03:00.004+02:00

The terrace in the village of Sault. Views right across the plateau to Mont Ventoux beyond. Is this not the best view in the Vaucluse? Just stop awhile, rest and let your eyes tell you the answer.

Scrumptious lunch

2011-08-04T10:06:00.004+02:00

Fresh salads, delicious pasta, great plat du jour. In the Grand Café in Valensole village opposite the pretty fountain and lovely old lavoir. And a group of friends to share the experience. This is what holidays in Provence are all about.

Dramatic skies and sunflowers

2011-08-01T14:01:00.004+02:00

The Valensole plateau. Lavender and sunflowers under a dramatic sky. Just breathtaking.

Lavender ladies having fun

2011-07-29T11:23:00.002+02:00

A beautiful sunny morning in July and here are the 'lavender ladies' group from the States lining up for their group shot in the lavender fields.

With photo opportunites at every turn, and later enjoying cake and fruit at the Ferme des Lavandes.

A perfect day out on their Real Provence lavender trip.

Finally they got the shot!

2011-07-08T09:27:00.006+02:00

The lavender is at its absolute peak - all they had to do is make the shot.

And double wow!

2011-07-06T10:05:00.005+02:00

On a clear morning in July on the Plateau de Sault such lovely sights

The lovely village of Aurel nestling up against the mountains, catching the morning light.

And a field of lavender sparkling in the sunshine.

No words necessary really.

Wow!

2011-07-04T18:51:00.004+02:00

The only word for these superb lavender fields on the Plateau de Valensole this week! Lavender as far as the eye can see. And even sun flowers as well. What an amazing sight, just stunning.

I know we've published poppy pics before but...

2011-05-03T14:07:00.003+02:00

... this wheat field made me stop the car this morning. Stunning!

Weather report

2011-04-10T09:03:00.016+02:00

Looks like wonderful weather is around most of Europe at the moment. It is however worth mentioning that we've opened up our pools and people are swimming and sunbathing already. We've never known the season to start so early. Everything is fresh, green and verdant as well. Perhaps worth mentioning a few early season vacancies available at the houses? Pouraque, last three weeks of May http://www.provenceholidayhouses.com/Pouraque.htm Les Cistes, first two weeks of June http://www.provenceholidayhouses.com/Les_Cistes.htm

Flowers galore

2011-03-21T12:40:00.006+01:00

A warm blue sky day for the flower fair in the pretty village of Maubec. Seems like the whole of the Luberon turns out for this annual event with lots of colourful plants and flowers to choose from - just right for the start of Spring. A glass of wine with friends, a merguez and frites and a jolly village brass band. What better way to spend a March Sunday afternoon.

Cassis - Too cold to swim in January!

2011-01-09T13:47:00.005+01:00

January 8th

Everybody seems to be out and about today.

Lets have lunch by the port instead.

Happy New Year!

Sparkling Toulon

2010-12-20T11:11:00.003+01:00

Eat your heart out London Regent Street. Toulon does its Christmas lights in real style - including the palm trees!

The fruits of the season

2010-12-09T11:35:00.008+01:00

For every 5 kilos of olives the mill gives you 1 litre of oil. Here's a few litres ready and waiting in the making.

And on their way to the press

Oil ready for collection in just a couple of weeks - and to be enjoyed all year long.

Fog in the Luberon! Continent cut off!

2010-12-08T11:23:00.008+01:00

The Luberon hasn’t exactly escaped the bad weather you’ve all been having up north. No snow but freezing dank conditions prevailed for days. We’re back to our normally sunny selves now but it made for a different outlook.

We walked along the ridge above Gordes looking down into the valley and took these shots. As we climbed through the cloud and mists, the Luberon and Vaucluse mountains poked above the valley floor covered in fog. Not great pics but we think you’ll agree a bit different to the normal stuff we post here.

Taster

2010-12-01T08:48:00.006+01:00

And finally this morning a little taster.

One of our most popular houses introduced this year has been Domus Alba. A large house sleeping 12 situated at the western end of the Luberon valley in the village of Chavel Blanc. The convenience of this location has proved so popular that availability for 2011 is now limited.

http://provenceholidayhouses.com/prices_Large.htm

We are delighted however to tell you that the house next door is also now available for rent. Mas des Banquets also sleeps 12 and has a splendid pool.

Watch this space as they say!

Villa Micolari

2010-12-01T08:38:00.005+01:00

The second house we've added to our portfolio of houses we offer for rent in the Alpilles is this one. The same owners are offering the introductory offer of 5% discount on any bookings made before Christmas.

The cottage is situated just a few minutes drive from the centre of St. Remy, a delightful old market town in the heart of the Alpilles area of Provence. The lovely old town centre has pretty streets, delightful shops and quiet squares and the lively boulevard surrounding the centre offers a great choice of lively cafes and restaurants. The whole area is rich in history. The ancient Roman town of 'Glanum', the St. Paul Mausoleum from where Van Gogh produced many of his paintings of the region, and the beautiful Alpilles mountains are a short drive away. Pine forests, olive groves and vineyards provide the quintessential provencal landscape. The historic cities of Avignon, Arles, Nimes and Aix en Provence are within easy exploring distance. The UNESCO world heritage site of the Pont du Gard, the perched villages of the Parc Naturel du Luberon and the Camargue are also very close as is the Mediterranean sea - within an hours drive. There is also range of sports and activities available in the area including walking, golf, tennis and horse riding

Click on this link to see the page
http://provenceholidayhouses.com/Villa_Micoulari.html

Mas du Pieou

2010-12-01T08:16:00.007+01:00

We've added a couple of houses to our portfolio of houses we offer for rent in the Alpilles.

As an introductory offer the owners have given us a 5% discount on any bookings made before Christmas. The house is situated just five minutes drive from the centre of St. Remy, a delightful old market town in the heart of the Alpilles area of Provence. The lovely old town centre has pretty streets, delightful shops and quiet squares and the lively boulevard surrounding the centre offers a great choice of lively cafes and restaurants. The whole area is rich in history. The ancient Roman town of 'Glanum', the St. Paul Mausoleum from where Van Gogh produced many of his paintings of the region, and the beautiful Alpilles mountains are a short drive away. Pine forests, olive groves and vineyards provide the quintessential provencal landscape. The historic cities of Avignon, Arles, Nimes and Aix en Provence are within easy exploring distance. The UNESCO world heritage site of the Pont du Gard, the perched villages of the Parc Naturel du Luberon and the Camargue are also very close as is the Mediterranean sea - within an hours drive. There is also range of sports and activities available in the area including walking, golf, tennis and horse riding.

Click this link to go to the page http://provenceholidayhouses.com/Mas_du_Pieou.html

Dancing in the Luberon

2010-11-26T14:17:00.005+01:00

Reblogged from the Torygraf

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/france/8118236/Provence-readers-tips-recommendations-and-travel-advice.html

DANCING IN THE LUBERON
The square in Lambesc was filled with music and as the band played it appeared that the whole of the village had turned out and were dancing with abandon. We bought luminous bracelets and crêpes for the children and jugs of rosé for the adults and chatted and danced the night away under the twinkling lights strung beneath the trees. Later we walked home carrying tired but happy children. The next day we drove through the Lubéron and stopped to have lunch in the dappled sunlight. I heard a cork pop and thought to myself – does life get better than this?

Sarah English, London

Art in Haute Provence

2010-11-25T07:20:00.004+01:00

This shot was taken a few days ago during our wanderings in the Haute Provence.

What took my eye was the artist (name unknown), the same hand painted a similar image on the cooling tower of the power station at Bollene. State sponsored grafiti? If I ever find out I'll let you know.

Sometimes we need good news

2010-11-25T07:17:00.001+01:00

Nothing to do with Provence but it's nice to share some good news sometimes don't you think.

2010-11-12T16:08:00.001+01:00

Colours of the Luberon

2010-11-12T15:59:00.004+01:00

Our part of the world certainly looks picture postcard pretty at the moment.

Pretty as a picture

2010-11-10T18:22:00.004+01:00

Charming old bench, bright Autumn leaves - a pretty, if slightly wonky, picture of France!

Fabulous secret valley

2010-11-08T15:27:00.009+01:00

Provence reveals more wonderful places to us every day. On a warm and sunny November morning we set off north up climbing through the Vaucluse hills up to Sault with Mont Ventoux in the distance, lower slopes ablaze with autumn colours.

Continuing north we crested the Col du Negron and stopped, breathless at the sight below us.

The Vallée de Jabron.

A bright and beautiful late October day

2010-10-28T17:10:00.007+02:00

Bright skies, warm sunshine, beautiful colours in the vineyards and cherry orchards. A delightful walk through the Luberon valley.

Man of many talents

2010-10-19T15:45:00.004+02:00

One man band spotted in Roussillon. Always something going on in this delightful Luberon village.

Could be Rome?

2010-10-18T11:18:00.008+02:00

No just the garden at our local bistro

Try a Real Provence holiday vacation and we'll show you how to find this and other stunning views.

Autumn / Fall

2010-10-13T10:26:00.006+02:00

Season of mists and mellow fruitfullness

I say, I say

2010-09-16T18:42:00.008+02:00

My second botanic blog of the day ....

What do you get from the Trompettes de Jericho?

Give up?

Beans! But only in Provence

Didn't get to try them tho ....

Not many people know this ...

2010-09-16T18:19:00.002+02:00

If the lavender is left uncut and the plant is in good condition, the little darlings have a second flowering on the tip of the summer flower. Isn't that lovely.

But only in Provence!

Weird and wonderful

2010-09-14T10:14:00.007+02:00

Surprising what you find in Avignon. An upside down elephant right in front of the Palais des Papes!

Ripe for the picking

2010-09-14T10:05:00.009+02:00

Grenache, Mouvedre, Syrah? Its picking time in the Luberon again and ripened by the superb summer weather this year, these grapes are certainly ready for the picking. Word has it that 2010 is going to be a very good year.....

The 'Septembristes'

2010-09-14T09:11:00.011+02:00

The 'Septembristes' - the people in the know about one of the best months to spend time in Provence.

We find them strolling Lourmarin market on a sunny Friday morning

pottering around the Marché Potiers in Roussillon on a warm sunny Sunday.

and enjoying dining outside in the evening at Le Fournil in Bonnieux.

We and the 'Septembrists' are just simply enjoying one of the best September's we can remember in Provence.

A little piece of Holland right here in Provence

2010-08-15T09:22:00.004+02:00

Well why not bring it with you?

Lavender holidays

2010-08-15T09:07:00.009+02:00

Friday was our day off, (the first in months!), and we went up to the Plateau de Sault.

To our astonishment there was still lavender to be seen or was being cut.

We always tell our clients taking Lavender holidays that 2nd week of July can be relied on to see the Lavender at it's best colour at least up on the Plateau, perhaps a couple of weeks before in the Luberon. The start of the year was very wet in Provence which made for a late flowering, however August is astonishing. June July & August for Lavender holidays. Wow!

Lavender, lavender everywhere

2010-06-30T09:25:00.006+02:00

Its here, its now, its blooming everywhere! Yes its Lavender time in Provence and doesn't it look just wonderful. In the Luberon valley the small lavender fields in full bloom are hot spots for photographers and painters. On the Plateau de Sault the higher altitude fields are just beginning to show that beautiful colour we all dream about.

My six point football plan

2010-06-27T19:38:00.001+02:00

1. Never again employ anyone other than an Englishman to manage an English team. Pay only by results. No contract longer than 3 months.
2. Eliminate work permits to play professional football for non-European people. We have enough Englishmen who want to earn a living playing the game, we don’t need to feed the talent pool of foreigners ever again.
3. Pick a much larger pool of players for the national squad, if the first 26 don’t perform bring in the second or the third without compunction
4. Establish an exclusive training programme for young players who want to play for their country on an expenses only basis and choose only from this pool. Seek commitment to the squad above all else
5. Accept a longer term view and acknowledge that we need to grow a team of Englishmen that are committed to country first and the rewards of professional football second.
6. Listen to the voice of the country in all things football.
7. Never listen to a rant :-)

Haute Provence

2010-06-10T09:47:00.009+02:00

We're preparing tailor made holiday vacations for a number of clients visiting the lavender fields of the Haute Provence. Visiting the Gorge du Verdon to see the Canyon and driving the Route de Cretes is a must. How about this for a taster?

The tiny blue line is of course the river running through the gorge.

Nude Sunbathing in Bandol

2010-05-23T08:18:00.006+02:00

Bandol, the perfect excursion for your day trip to the coast and that all over tan.

Reminder

2010-05-22T08:18:00.003+02:00

Be there or be ........

Toulon v Cardiff Blues - Velodrome Marseille Sunday 23rd May

(Amlin Challenge Cup, Finale - 23/05/10 - 15:00 - Stade Vélodrome - Marseille)

Spring flower delights

2010-05-04T19:12:00.006+02:00

A picture book of delightful wild flowers on a stroll through the countryside at the eastern end of the Luberon valley. The blue blue of Spring irises, miniature blue 'birds-eye' in a wild meadow, bright white garlic and wild thyme nestling against the old stone walls. What a picture.

Others are saying this

2010-04-19T15:40:00.003+02:00

But it's true!

Our villas with private pools are ready now. We have contacted all our villa owners in the last few days to make sure that all the pools are ready for use. The weather forecast indicates sunny and warm Spring weather in most southern regions in the next 4 weeks. If you are frustrated at the prospect of being unable to get away by plane to somewhere in next few weeks, why not have a look at some of our villas where the pools have just been prepared for the summer, and sparkling, refreshing water has just been put in. Eurotunnel crossings have good availability.

Up up and away

2010-04-19T15:01:00.003+02:00

The first hot air balloon of the summer. A beautiful blue sky April morning. A superb morning for a fabulous view of the Luberon valley from on high. Hot air balloon rides can be arranged as part of a Real Provence holiday and with a champagne breakfast on landing, it makes for a superb holiday experience.

Addicted to Cherry Blossom

2010-04-14T19:16:00.007+02:00

I know we posted shots like these before but the truth is the blossom can sometimes be a photographers dream. As we go backwards forwards about our business I have to stop the car every so often just to capture the beauty of it. Here are two different orchards close to our own house at Pouraque.

I'm pleased with the results shall we say.

Blooming lovely!

2010-04-11T18:58:00.002+02:00

Cherries blooming throughout the Luberon valley. Just delightful. Spring is well and truly here.

Cassis in the sunshine

2010-03-10T11:57:00.005+01:00

The first of the tourist boats leaves the harbour in bright Spring sunshine.

And the jaunty little fishing boats are just waiting their turn.

Inspired?

2010-03-09T11:38:00.005+01:00

I know we've been moaning about the weather just recently but how about the other side of the coin? We were down on the coast a few days ago and the sun shone and Provence put it's best face on.

Brave little Alice certainly thought the sea was warm enough but the waves were a bit high!

Early spring break in Provence?

March business post #2

2010-03-09T11:26:00.002+01:00

Another big house with some bargains. Please have a look at our Special Offers page.

La Chapelle du Bruoux sleeps 17 with a huge pool and tennis court another great location for a larger group.

http://www.provenceholidayhouses.com/Chapelle_du_Bruoux.htm

Back to Business!

2010-03-09T11:04:00.005+01:00

A quick note to tell you that we've been able to "sharpen our pencil" and reduce the prices for Maison Rouge. Now a bargain high season price of £2,435 per week for this large house sleeping 8. It has it's own private pool and with sensational views, is this your holiday destination this summer?

Spring??

2010-03-07T15:34:00.002+01:00

Hmmm
Thought Spring had arrived with the first sighting of almond blossom bursting forth - now its almond blossom in the snow! Just when we thought it was time to dust down the BBQ!

A great day out

2010-02-24T14:06:00.004+01:00

What better way to spend a February Saturday than truffle hunting and a great truffle lunch near Monieux below the slopes of Mont Ventoux with a group of friends. Lovely views in the distance of the snow covered mountain slopes.

Arriving at the farmhouse we gear up with our walking boots then off down the steeply sloping hillside with the farmer and his truffle dog.

Digging madly wherever he scented the truffles, the dog called Velo quickly unearthed some great speciments.

Then back to the farmhouse for a lunch to remember.

Spring is on the way!

2010-01-30T08:52:00.003+01:00

We're very lucky where we live in that we have good views and generally have beautiful sunsets. Also one always knows the season by the position the sun sets in. In winter the sun sets in the far south west and by high summer is a few degrees north of due west. Last night another fantastic display and guess what, the sun has moved from it's mid winter position. We're filled with hope!

Le Géant de Provence - magnificent Mont Ventoux

2010-01-28T10:36:00.004+01:00

Looking even more magnificent today under a cloudless blue sky surrounded by the sparkling snow fields of the Plateau de Sault. You wouldn't believe these fields are a sea of purple lavender in the summer but the are just as beautiful in their winter blanket.

Mont Ventoux is one of our favourite excursions. The summit is closed in winter so we are looking forward to the thaw when we can drive to the top again for the superb views right across the southern Alps.

Magnificent or what?

2010-01-23T14:44:00.006+01:00

A day trip a bit further afield to see the magnificent Norman Foster bridge over the Millau Viaduct. Absolutely superb, although one of us who is not so keen on heights found the idea of driving across a bit disconcerting!

An early season let?

2010-01-21T10:26:00.005+01:00

It's not too early for that sunny week in Provence

All our houses are fully insulated!

There's snow ...

2010-01-13T07:42:00.005+01:00

Then there's Provencal snow!

It will all be gone by Easter. Honest!

Snowy blankets

2010-01-11T11:53:00.001+01:00

Olives and plane trees under a snowy blanket today. Just SO pretty. Provence really is a delight at all times of the year.

At the other end of the spectrum

2009-12-15T11:58:00.005+01:00

A lovelly little cottage in the hamlet of Foncaudette, a perfect hideaway for two.

The cottage belongs to our good friend MT (My-teay) and is also often booked together with the Mas au Four or the Mas des Romarins as extra accomodation.

Just click on the links to have a look.
La Maison du Marie-Therese
Mas des Romarins
Mas au Four

An extra 3 bedroom house

2009-12-15T11:31:00.004+01:00

The owners of La Chapelle de Bruoux have decided to let the central part of thier house as a stand alone entity in the mid season in order to maximise thier lettings. You get a deluxe provencal house with own it's pool and tennis court sleeping 6 for £1,990 in June. Great value!

Click on the link to see details on our web site.
La Maison Fanny

We're still busy adding new houses

2009-12-15T11:10:00.006+01:00

This house is in Ilse sur la Sourge, the antiques capital of France which we've mentioned before (http://real-provence.blogspot.com/2009/05/idylic-lunch.html)

The house is called La Carestie and is in an ideal situation for the western end of the Luberon.

It sleeps 8. Do have a look at the details on our web site, we're sure you'll have a great holiday at La Carestie

La Carestie

Le Mazet de Saint Antoine added to our Luberon Houses

2009-11-22T18:22:00.008+01:00

Have a look at our new house in Isle sur la Sorgue

Le Mazet Antoine

Provencal House with own pool, Isle sur la Sorgue Sleeps 10

Check out the details by following this link
http://www.provenceholidayhouses.com/Mazet_Antoine.htm

Here' another new one from our Luberon portfolio

2009-11-22T18:05:00.007+01:00

L'Ermitage

De luxe Provencal house with own pool, Roussillon. Sleeps 6. Large and comfortable house with gorgeous views of the Luberon valley.

Click on the link above to see details of this great property to rent.

See! There is life in the Luberon

2009-11-22T11:11:00.007+01:00

You thought that everything closed down after All Saints day didn't you? Well here's the proof you're wrong!

Good live music in our own village. How we've not known about this is amazing or perhaps an example of of how insular the different communes are from each other. Each one a best kept secret ... but not from Real Provence!

Best of the night were Rue Royale. Think of Fairport Convention with Sandy Denny meets Fleetwood Mac plays Ellis Kennedy. Very nice.

http://www.myspace.com/rueroyale

And free downloads

http://www.rueroyalemusic.com/Rue_Royale_/Home.html

And more to come. A Christmas bash. Any one for reggie? When we hear more we'll post it in this blog, their secrets are safe with us :-)

P

Lagniappe

2009-11-09T08:36:00.002+01:00

In the old provencal language, "Lagniappe" means Welcome.

This house certainly does provide a warm provencal welcome for our clients. It has four bedrooms comfortably sleeping 8 and has it's own private swimming pool. Located in the countryside about 3 miles from Roussillon it makes an ideal Luberon base.

Please follow this link for more information;

http://www.provenceholidayhouses.com/Lagniappe.htm

Our Featured House

2009-11-09T08:17:00.005+01:00

I'm going to tell you about our new houses.

Our featured house is Domus Alba, a four bedroomed house sleeping 8 with it's own pool, own tennis court. It also has a seperate gite sleeping 2 for your granny, extra friends dropping by, or the childrens nanny? The house is situated in the countryside near to the village of Chavel Blanc with great views and set in a fantastic provencal garden.

This is the link to the page on our web site that will give you all the details;
http://www.provenceholidayhouses.com/Domus_Alba.htm

November Already

2009-11-09T07:30:00.004+01:00

All Saints day has come and gone and the season is well and truly over as a quite calm descends on the Luberon villages. However there are some visitors still around enjoying the autumn colours. We always find autumn so attractive here in the Luberon because the colours last so long particularly the various varieties of oaks which only loose their leaves in the early spring as new growth pushes through. Somehow the sunsets are special at this time of year too.

It maybe end of the season but we're still open for business with clients in a few of the houses enjoying walks and cosy evenings by a log fire. Meanwhile we work hard to develop our portfolio of houses we offer for rent. More next post.

Fabulous Provencal Autumn reds and golds

2009-10-26T18:57:00.007+01:00

From the fabulous red creeper at the wine Domaine de la Fourmone in Vacqueras to the gold and yellows of the vines in the Cotes du Rhone vineyards

and the gorgeous trees against the blue blue sky on the road driving up to Mont Ventoux.

These are the colours of Autumn in Provence.

The wild food of Provence

2009-10-19T18:29:00.002+02:00

Fantastic peppery wild rocket adds a hint of bite to a simple salad, and gorgeus feathery fennel for a lovely aniseed flavour - its all just for the taking in the hedgerows of Provence.

Flowers of Autumn

2009-09-28T15:20:00.004+02:00

Fabulous golden autumn crocuses dancing in the sunshine. Just popped their heads up in the last couple of days to enjoy the beautifuly balmy days of late September in the Luberon and they couldn't look more delightful nestling against the old provencal stone.

Gastronomy by the sea

2009-09-23T13:01:00.011+02:00

Gastronomare in Marseille - a feast for the eyes and the stomach! Cooking demonstrations from the top Marseille chefs, food and wine tastings and the best fun of all, street food along side the Vieux Port. From Palestine to Sicily, Italy to Algeria and lots more - stalls from all around the mediterranean with great food accompanied by a glass or two of the refreshing local Cagole beer. What better way to spend a sunny September afternoon.

Two Lon! Two Lon! Two Lon!

2009-09-23T09:48:00.007+02:00

Yes, Toulon v Toulouse at the Marseille Vellodrone stadium. With a near capacity crowd of 55,000 and incredibly patriotic Toulon fans the atmosphere was electric – all jolly good fun! A certain Mr Wilkinson played a leading role for “our” Toulon boys too.

God knows why French rugby seems to be on such a high roll these days. We can’t understand what has brought this about but there seem to be more and more foreign players down here and money to pay them. Perhaps it’s the influence of the “Top 14” games on Canal+ television or the success of the game after the world cup. Either which way there is even an English language web site now with a news feed which continues to prick our interest. http://frenchrugbyclub.com/

That's our man!

Oui!

As the Toulouse team gaze upon the face of Jonny and think .....

As you see the Real truth is that Provence has exciting big cities as well and we even play rugby!

Medieval Fete, Monieux

2009-09-18T14:47:00.007+02:00

5th September. - This wonderful event at Monieux was the first of what we hope will be a biannual happening. We'll keep you posted when the next one comes around.

Vendage 3

2009-09-18T13:31:00.006+02:00

When the press breaks down there's nothing for it but to get in there and squash the buggers down with your feet!

Who is that fat bloke anyway?

Vendage part 2

2009-09-15T10:42:00.011+02:00

And back at the press the fruits of our labours are unloaded. Today its Roussanne and Rolle for the 2010 white.

The vendage began more than a week ago

2009-09-15T08:33:00.008+02:00

And the weather has been perfect for picking. Early morning starts to pick the grapes before they get too hot, a boozy lunch with chez F, and an afternoon snooze. Eat your heart out Anglo-Saxanoy!

Who are these people?

This woman looks familiar

Advertisment

2009-08-19T18:59:00.005+02:00

Late availability at Maison Vignes - 29th August 2009

Maison Vignes link

Link should now work - I hope!

Thrills and spills!

2009-08-19T11:25:00.003+02:00

What a spectacle! Stock car racing at Cabrières - incredible they even make it onto the track, never mind race against each other. Super Sunday afternoon entertainment.

Sunday 6th September 2009 - Cabrières-d'Avignon, France

Another spiffing find Mr B!

2009-08-19T11:05:00.008+02:00

Real Provence & ProvenceHolidayHouses.com brings you another little resturant gem

This time in the village of Caseneuve - LE SANGLIER PARESSEUX
Téléphone :04 90 75 17 70 Have a look at on our site for more details but the "Menu du Marche" at 24€ is pretty good

Our Restaurant Guide

A little culture too...

2009-08-17T16:37:00.004+02:00

Ok, so Woodstock it's not, but for the Real experience, the "Festival International de Piano de La Roque d'Anthéron" is really rather special

On Friday we went to a recital by the young pianist Olivier Moulin at Parc du Château de Florans in Roque d'Anthéron. Well, a splendid performance for such a young man. At €15 a ticket you might say it was rather good value!

For the record the programme was;
Fauré : Thème et Variations en ut mineur opus 73
Schumann : Davidsbündlertänze (Danses des compagnons de David) opus 6
Rachmaninov : Sonate n°2 en si bémol mineur opus 36

The biggest lunch in Provence!?

2009-08-12T13:48:00.001+02:00

Paella with attitude! Enjoyed Sunday in Gordes at the annual Fete des Vins.

A day in Marseille

2009-08-11T18:11:00.006+02:00

Around every corner in Marseille there's a postcard waiting to be published.

... And hands off! Real Provence copyright. Thank you.

A new house for us following shortly

2009-08-11T13:01:00.004+02:00

This beautiful village house will shortly be added to our portfolio of houses to rent. I'll "retweet" as soon as it's on our site but just had to add this post while I'm still smiling.

The owner of the house maintains a comment book and I just had to repost this.

"Well, we are finally in your lovely home. We have had quite the adventure today. When we arrived in Avignon and picked up our leased vehicle, we were served by a very young woman who spoke no English. Fortunately, our daughter speaks French -however we were not given any details of the vehicle...only a set of keys and a curt look. As we attempted to familiarize ourselves with it we discovered that the fuel tank was on empty. Sadly, because we rarely use diesel fuel in Canada, my husband filled the tank with regular fuel. We made it about 200 meters when the engine quit. We pushed the vehicle back to the petrol station and spent 4 hours trying to get some help from Renault. Finally we were told that the vehicle would need to be towed and the tank to be drained etc.. and that that could not happen until Monday.

We were obviously distressed as Georgette was expecting us and also we were delivering our daughter to Montpellier tomorrow. Following numerous failed attempts at an interim rental...we ended up with a Mercedes....the only rental in Avignon and 1500 euros later.

But oh, it gets better!

After we made our way to Roussillon - we knocked on Georgette's door, only to be informed by her and her daughter that the house had already been rented and that the occupants arrived earlier today. I told her that couldn't be possible, as I had confirmation from you only last night. Together, we knocked on the door and found the "occupants" out by the pool. A young British/New Zealander couple with a toddler were enjoying a swim and a beer. As Georgette (and her daughter) spoke no English, I asked the couple about their reservation and the husband told me that they were to meet his sister in law here - that she had booked it and they were arriving shortly. When I explained that I had booked this home for the month he replied that he had "know idea what I was talking about." All the while, my husband was illegally parked...waiting for info to the car park.

The most bizarre moment of the day happened when the man's wife, emerged from the pool - naked! She had quite a girth and was trying to balance a naked child who was slipping and sliding and the towel she had fetched...while the husband scowled and finally shouted at my daughter and I that he would just go back to England. He then stormed down the garden steps sopping wet.

Fortunately, our sense of humour was tested today and won!

Eventually we discovered that of course they were in the wrong house. Apparently, as they were wandering down the street earlier trying to find their address, Georgette appeared and asked them if they were the renters. They replied that they were and the rest - is history! Certainly one for the books to be sure. The wife was very apologetic (but of course all I could still see was her dripping nakedness) and the husband, clearly embarrassed, said nothing as he banged and threw things into bags and boxes.

We waited while they packed their bags and food (they had filled the fridge already) and after the woman had retrieved the paper with the correct details, Georgette assisted them in finding their rental.

I hope that my rendering of our adventure does not upset you. I am hoping that you will have a chuckle...as we all just did over pizza and a bottle of wine next door. Tomorrow we head to Montpellier. And then back to Avignon on Monday to collect our Renault. With diesel fuel. Mon Dieu!
We are thrilled with the home and love our new neighbours already. Poor Georgette - all she could say was "je suis desolee". She and her family were wonderful. We are certain we will love Roussillon."

--------------

P.S. Dear Real-Provence and Provenceholidayhouses clients, swimming naked in our pools is not obligatory but it might be better to make sure you have the right house before "plonger"!

Is this real Provence?

2009-08-01T16:28:00.009+02:00

On my way to work at 7 o'clock this morning.

M. Caldi does have other means of transport but on a hot summer Saturday morning there's nothing better than to be out with "Gigi". It all looks a bit early for "Netto" however.

Mas Bernardo

2009-07-29T17:39:00.004+02:00

Have you seen the new house on our houses web site?

Mas Bernardo

http://www.provenceholidayhouses.com/Mas_Bernardo.htm

We have some late summer availability

Phew what a scorcher

2009-07-29T16:01:00.007+02:00

Time to head for the shade and relax. 37 degrees and its hot, hot, hot. The swimming pool beckons or the shade of the oleander. Summer in Provence is well and truly here.

They're Spoiling My Fun!

2009-07-18T19:26:00.007+02:00

Or is the power of the Real Provence Blog so great that even the city fathers of Roussillon are following our twitterings?

http://real-provence.blogspot.com/2009_06_01_archive.html