La Ferrière

Stunning 17th century property previously owned by Peter Mayle

Sleeps 10-12 in 500m² of indoor living space, with private pool, set on 11 hectares

Easily accessible on foot from the popular village of Lourmarin, this is arguably one of the most beautiful properties in Provence. It also has an interesting provenance, as it was once owned by the beloved and iconic author of “A Year in Provence”, Peter Mayle.

This stunning old “bastide” was fully restored by the Mayle family, who immediately recognised its unique charm. Authentic older elements have been preserved while noble materials breathed new life into this structure, in total harmony with its original architecture.

The summer lounge near the pool enjoys a fantastic view over the hills. A shaded courtyard, with the old “pigeonnier” next to it, is flush with flowers that exude the scents of Provence, while a hundred-year-old plane tree stands guard over the pond.

The interior offers comfort and well-being

Overflowing with character, and classically decorated, the house is on three levels. Partly vaulted living rooms accentuate the feeling of space, security and privacy. Please note that the property does not have air-conditioning  but is very comfortable, even at the height of summer.

A professional fitted kitchen adjoins the dining room, and both open onto the interior courtyard.

The house can comfortably accommodate 10 adults and two to three children. The ground floor has a double bedroom (bed 160cm) and bathroom with walk-in shower. On the first floor there are 4 further double bedrooms, each with its own bathroom:
– the master bedroom (200cm bed) with bath and walk-in shower
– a double (160cm) with walk-in shower
– a twin bedroom (2 x 110cm)
– a double (160cm)

There is also a guest lounge on this floor, which is perfect to rest or read in.

The second floor has been designed with children in mind, with two adjoining nursery-style rooms. The first has a single bed decorated with a fun bird motif, and the other room has two comfortable beds (110cm each) in a beautiful warm space.

Outdoor living

The property is set on 11 hectares of land planted with olive and fruit trees, lavender, cypress, and other Mediterranean plants. There is also a vegetable garden.

A covered terrace on the pool side has an outdoor dining table set for 12, ample garden furniture, and a gas barbecue.

An additional covered terrace on the south side faces the vegetable garden. It has comfortable sofas and is a popular place for your late-afternoon aperitifs.

The 13m x 6m swimming pool is heated and is secured by an electric shuttered cover. There are sun loungers and parasols (umbrellas) outdoors or you can relax in the pool house, which has a large sofa and cushions. There is also a ping-pong table to

There is plenty of private parking on the property. Sorry, we do not accept pets at this property.

Location, location, location

The house is situated about 2 minutes by car from the centre of Lourmarin, (approx 1.5km), in a private and peaceful area, surrounded by the countryside.

Lourmarin is classified among the most beautiful villages in France, and its picturesque little streets are lined with shops and art galleries, and there is a world-famous market to explore every Friday morning. Choose from dozens of cafés, restaurants or ice cream parlours for refreshment.

Some distances (approx):
– Aix en Provence: 40km
– Saint Rémy de Provence: 50km
– Roussillon: 22km
– Les Baux de Provence: 57km
– Aix en Provence TGV station: 55km
– Marseille Provence Airport: 67km

Included services:
– Garden and pool maintenance
– End-of-stay cleaning
– Cleaning during the week (4 x 3h)

Booking notes:

• Change-over day: Friday or Saturday
• Minimum stay: 7 nights
• Booking deposit: 25% of total rent
• Refundable breakages deposit: €3,000
• Local stay tax: €4.40 per adult per night