Domaine de la Xavolière

As you approach your destination along the winding gravel road, between densely wooded hills looking towards the foothills of the Alps, the view becomes more beautiful with every meter you climb and you know that something special awaits your arrival. Surrounded by ten hectares of land, the Provençal farmhouse is situated on a plateau in the middle of the Préalpes d’Azur Nature Park. Owner Stéphanie Larguier had lived here with her family for fifteen years. When her children moved to the city to study, she wanted to share this magical place with others. We think it was a great decision. A loving renovation has created the house of her dreams and a place that fulfills many peoples’ idea of the perfect romantic retreat in the countryside. Five spacious, bright guest rooms are located behind the rough stone walls, decorated in earthy tones inspired by the surroundings. Boho-style accessories, handmade floor tiles and antique Spanish doors add an individual touch. The surrounding park with pine, oak and olive trees is home to many species of birds and wildlife. Busy bees produce delicious honey and free-range chickens provide fresh eggs for breakfast. Scattered throughout are communal areas where you can meet and share your day with others: A living room with kitchen and fireplace, a small lounge, a terrace, a heated swimming pool and a large pétanque court. More than enough for a wonderful vacation. And we haven’t even mentioned the heavenly Mediterranean scent of lavender, rosemary, and broom …

WHAT WE LIKE MOST:

• The contemporary design of the rooms: Natural tones, boho style and modern bathrooms
• The secluded location amidst the unspoiled nature of the Provençal countryside surrounding the estate
• The hammocks in the garden offer a wonderful place to dream the day away.
• Which bottle will we crack open tonight? The long table under the thatched roof in the garden is perfect for balmy evenings with fine wine and good conversation.
• The fresh meadow flowers from the garden decorating the rooms
• Each bathroom has a walk-in shower with pretty Zellige tiles in shades of green, white, and gray that would look good in any home.
• Swimming with a view: You can take your laps in the heated swimming pool with a panoramic view of the mountains.
• Sand between your toes or walking in the surrounding area? The location between sea and mountains offers plenty of variety for your vacation. Choose between medieval villages, sophisticated seaside resorts and hiking routes.
• The clear focus on sustainable tourism. Reducing fossil fuels and waste is part of the way of life here, recycling is a priority and solar energy is used to heat water.
• When selecting suppliers, the owners look for responsible partners. For example, the care products in the rooms come from the environmentally friendly brand Geodora.
• Espresso, American coffee, and teas of all kinds ... hot drinks can be enjoyed throughout the day and are included. 

GOOD TO KNOW:

• Depending on the season, the delicious breakfast with regional and seasonal ingredients is served on the terrace or by the fireplace, and is included in the room rate.
• As the property with its pool isn’t safe for small children, only children aged 12 and over are welcome.
• The five rooms are between 20 and 30 square meters in size, four of them are located on the upper floor of the house, one on the ground floor with direct access outside (all with south-eastern exposure and gentle morning sun), each with a king-size or queen-size bed, TV, Wi-Fi and fridge.
• Bathrobes and towels are provided for relaxing by the poolside.
• How are your table tennis skills? The truth is quickly revealed at the table tennis table ...
• All your favorite places on the Côte d’Azur and the surrounding area are easy to reach from here. The property is less than 20 minutes from Grasse, the perfume capital, 50 minutes from Cannes, 60 minutes from Nice and 90 minutes from Saint-Tropez.
• There are wonderful bays along the Côte d’Azur, that can be explored by boat. You can go pedal boating, sailing, or canoeing on the Lac de Saint-Cassien 20 minutes away.
• Put on your hiking boots and off you go! Many routes can be joined straight from the house.
• If you prefer to pedal to explore the area, grab one of the two electric bikes belonging to the house.
• The entire property can also be booked for small events, photo shoots or business seminars.
• Whilst tension seems to slip away all by itself here, if you would like a massage, Stéphanie is happy to book an appointment with wellness massage practitioner Jade.
• The minimum stay is three nights.