Moulinsard

We've said good-bye to a couple of our favourite houses this year as the owners retire from house letting but good news as we have been fortunate to be able add Le Moulinsard to our portfolio.

A perfect Luberon villa, well maintained and very contemporary. It's three bedrooms with own pool. And lots of availability still left for the summer. Quite a find!

Another plug for the Sonograf

We've mentioned the Sonograf before but it's worth mentioning it again. (http://real-provence.blogspot.fr/2011/11/another-rp-find.html ) We had another fab evening there with friends last night. The band was Big Pete Pearson & the Gamblers. Big Pete won't see seventy again but that dosn't stop him singing great blues.

The entrance was €15 and a simple two course supper with a glass of wine a further €12. Great value we think.

Next gig we're going to will be Michael Burks on the 2nd May. See you there.

More Marseille secrets

The Vallon d'Auffes. This little fishing port nestling beneath the coast road of the Corniche is a delightful spot and home to two of the best bouillabaisse restaurants in Marseille. Chez Fonfon overlooks the little inlet, L'Epuisette sits at the end of the inlet overlooking the Mediterranean. Either will give you the true taste of that wonderful fish dish for which Marseille is world renowned.

Or if you are in the mood for just a casual lunch by the waterside, book one of the outdoor tables at Chez Jeannot the pizza restaurant at the top of the little bay.

Marseille secrets

Nestling beneath the busy Corniche the charming Anse de Malmouche is one of Marseille's hidden secrets. All you can hear is the lap of the waves around the fishing boats - no hint of the big city so nearby. Then follow the coastal path for superb views of this great city on the sea, and across the blue Mediterranean to the distant Isles Frioul and Chateau d'If. The perfect Sunday morning stroll.

Marseille at play

Sparkling blue water, 22 degrees C, Sunday afternoon on 1 April and Marseille hits the beach - and this is no April fool's joke!