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Review 723: Owner, La Bastide Vieille (#1293)

www.vrbo.com

Recommended
Review by daveS from NJ

4bed house near Bonnieux, Provence

Photos

When

November 2003, 10 days

Location

Between the towns of Lacoste and Bonnieux, this stone farmhouse sits among grapevines, cherry and olive trees with a great views of the petit Luberon and the Calavon valley.

Nearby Amenities

Driving is a must. The nearest supermarket is about 20 minutes, though there are a couple of small groceries in the local towns 10 minutes away. The nearest restaurants were in Bonnieux - 5 minutes. In the winter, many restaurants close completely, or are only open for lunch during the week.

The House/Apartment

It was an old stone house in great shape. Very private.

Garden

Private 4 acre property looks out over grapevines, cherry trees, olive trees and a beautiful view. There is a large pool that was closed in November. There is a metal swingset for kids, and a big seesaw that has seen better days. The pool is on a big patio, adjacent to the poolhouse. Poolhouse contains bath, small kitchen, fridge, BBQ.

Furnishings/Cleanliness/Living Areas

The 2 small couches in the living room are nearing the end of their life. Other than that there are beautiful antiques and art throughout the house that are in nice condition. The beds are comfortable. Plenty of indoor & outdoor seating. Nice dining room. 2 fireplaces.

Bedrooms/Bathrooms

The beds and bedrooms were nice and comfortable. The baths were clean and modern. Watch your head in a couple of the doorways if you're over 5' 10" or so!

Kitchen

The kitchen was very nice by French standards. It was large and comfortable and well equipped. American fridge in the adjacent hallway. Small fridge in the kitchen.

Problems or Bonuses

The property was more beautiful than I thought. House comes with a cat that the neighbors feed. But he comes around and demands entry!

Agency and Representatives (and price)

The caretaker was a very friendly young woman, fluent in English. The property exceeded our expectations based on the web site. The owner is very friendly and cooperative.

Do you recommend this vacation rental to others?

Yes, absolutely recommended. A couple of minor points: watch your head in a couple of the doorways, we had to buy an alarm clock, bring or buy a nite lite.

There are some stairs that may not be suitable for the elderly or handicapped.

See my photos at www.siebenheller.com/2003_provence.htm

Things to do in this area

Hilltowns. Make sure your legs are in good shape! Read Peter Mayle's A Year in Provence and Toujours Provence before or during your visit. Everything in those books is within reach! Mayle lived about 10 minutes from here. Marseille Airport, 1.25 hrs, Avignon 45 mins, Orange 1 hr., Mediterranean 1.5 hrs, Pont du Gard, Arles, the list goes on and on. Markets, food, wine!

This review is the opinion of a Slow Travel member and not of slowtrav.com.

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