This beautiful property is an 18th century manor house, set in 250 acres of private land comprising orchards and fields, on an island on the Rhône River, close to the famous Papal city of Avignon. The house was originally built by monks of the Carthusian Order, and at the time of the French Revolution in 1789, it was owned by the Knights of the Order of Malta.
Both Avignon and Orange, with their architectural treasures, music and theatre festivals, are within 15 minutes drive, and within half an hour there are 2 golf courses and 8 Michelin 1-star restaurants. It is a wonderful central base for exploring Provence, with the hill towns of the Alpilles, the Luberon, Arles and Aix en Provence, all within an hour’s drive.
The house is situated in complete privacy at the end of a mile long drive, shaded by ancient plane trees and bordered by orchards. It is surrounded by terraces and four acres of gardens and lawns. A swimming pool (17 x 7.5m) is fenced for the safety of young children, and can be heated on request. There is also a boules court. A large barn to the left of the house has been converted into a 7 car garage. The accommodation comprises a main house, sleeping 10 people, and a guest house next to the pool, offering more simple accommodation for up to four people, and a summer kitchen.
The interiors were completely and luxuriously refurbished in 2003 in a highly refined French country style. The 1500 square feet main salon has a 40’ ceiling and a sweeping staircase to a mezzanine with a wet-bar and seating, an American billiard table and a study with telephone and fax. The library, under the mezzanine, has a huge 17th century fireplace and a large collection of English and French books and CDs. Thick stone walls keep the house cool, even on hot summer days. For winter rentals, all the ground floor rooms and the mezzanine have heated floors. The bedrooms all have air conditioning and heating and are furnished with a combination of French antiques and Provençal fabrics. Further amenities include satellite TV, internet access and a stereo system. An exceptionally high level of service is provided at this property, and the staff of four includes a resident chef, 2 maids and a concierge. The resident chef is available year round, although, during the summer the villa can only be rented with the chef. During the summer months, the chef will prepare 4 lunches and 4 dinners a week. Breakfast is served 7 days a week.
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Two maids provide maid service 8 hours a day, 6 days a week. Linen is changed twice a week. From May 26th - October 6th, a chef for 4 lunches and 4 dinners a week is included in the rental price (days to be chosen by guests). Breakfast is served 7 days a week. The cost of food is extra. Additional meals available on request at extra charge. The washing machine and dryer can only be used by staff, who are available on request for laundry.
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