Description Victoire Scenery: Aix-en-Provence

Tucked into a one-hectare pine forest yet just minutes from the centre of Aix-en-Provence, this villa offers a rare combination of seclusion and ease. Mont Sainte-Victoire looms over the grounds, a constant reminder of the landscape that captivated Cézanne – and you can drive out to hike it in forty minutes. Back at the villa, days drift between the pool encircled by cypresses and the garden, which the living room and main suite both open directly onto. Come evening, the basement leisure suite – pool table, home theatre – gives the group somewhere to land after dinner.

Home truths:
* The resident chickens need feeding every day – your host will brief you on the routine, and in return you'll have a supply of fresh eggs to enjoy during your stay.
* One of the seven bedrooms has a smaller double bed (140 cm wide) rather than a full king or queen – we think it's more comfortable for one adult or a pair of children.
* Air conditioning is available in the bedrooms and kitchen, but not in the living room or basement leisure areas – keep that in mind during the warmer summer months.