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La "Provence verte"

Besse sur Issole

 

Less than 2 km from the property is the village of Besse-sur-Issole in the heart of Var wine country with its medieval architecture, nine spring water fountains, a lake in its centre and its signature vineyards. Home of  local hero 'Gaspard de Besse', here you will find all basic services: bakery, grocer, butcher shop, restaurants, cafés, pizzerias, pharmacy, hairdresser and a small weekly farmer's market. Have your morning coffee or a snack at a sidewalk café, treat yourself to dinner at one of the gourmet restaurants or take away a delicious 'plat du jour' from the local butcher. You can even see a recent movie in the 18th century town hall.

Côteaux Varois and Côtes de Provence wines

 

Two kilometres from the villa is le Grand Cros vineyard (http://www.grandcros.comowned and operated by a former Canadian politician.  

You can also sample cuisine from Alain Ducasse, one of France’s top chefs, at l’Hostellerie de l’Abbaye de la Celle. In less than 10 minutes by car you can visit no fewer than 12 different towns and villages, each with its own history, character and vineyards to explore. Biking is also a wonderful way to visit the region and bikes can be arranged. There are hiking trails, including to the St Quinis chapel at an altitude of 600 metres and built in the XVIth century, horseback riding, fishing, the tourist train and a large number of “cru classé” vineyards to visit nearby. For those who love golf, the Barbaroux Golf Course, one of the most prestigious in France, is 15 minutes away.

 

Brignoles, Aix-en-Provence, Abbaye du Thoronet

Day trips can be taken to the Abbeys of Thoronet and St Maximin, Brigançon Fort, sailing or diving in the waters of the national park of the Porquerolles Islands, Port Crau, Le Levant, and the exhibitions and festivals of Aix-en-Provence. All are easily accessible via the autoroute just 15 minutes from the villa. The Tourist Train of Central Var runs from April to October through Besse from Carnoules to Brignoles. For spectacular views, escape to the Gorges du Verdon.

Saint Tropez and the Côte d'Azur

 

Come and experience the village made famous by Brigitte Bardot with its private beaches the stuff of legend. Continue on to Nice, Cannes or Saint-Raphael, Grasse with its perfumes, and Vallauris and its pottery. All are easily accessible via the autoroute.

Closer to home, the delightful sand beaches of La Londe des Maures and le Lavandou are just 30 minutes away.  And don't miss the restaurants and shopping in Hyères-les-Palmiers, the town that introduced the French Riviera to the world.

 

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