Artist-Inspired Villas in South of France
Have you ever dreamed of walking in thee footsteps of your favourite artist?
If so, this new villa experience is made for you.
Luxury travel company Red Savannah is offering a selection of villas in Provence that inspired great artists such as Cezanne, Van Gogh, and Matisse in the creation of some of their most celebrated works. The allure of France’s picturesque Provence region lies in the diversity of its landscapes filled with lavender fields, olive groves, vineyards and coastal vistas.
For those interested in pursuing their love of art in this most beautiful of settings, they will provide an artist's set of materials including tools and paints for guests’ use during their stay.
Here are 4 stunning villas that are available to rent as part of the program:
Mas Calanquet
Located near St Remy de Provence, this 6-bedroom villa was the late home of Vincent Van Gogh inspiring some of his most famous works. The vibrant colors and luminous atmosphere of the olive orchard backed by the Les Alpilles Mountain range will inspire travelers’ own masterpieces.
Villa Highlights:
40 acres of private grounds, including lavender fields and olive groves
Tennis court and heated swimming pool
Original features include traditional stone floors and fireplaces on the ground level, contrasting with a lovely light and neutral décor throughout
The kitchen and dining area opens directly onto a terrace, while a living area and TV room is furnished with deep, comfy sofas and a library of games, films, and books
A contemporary-designed spiral staircase leads to the upper floor, which includes a spacious master bedroom with separate bathtub and views to Les Alpilles mountain range
The market town of St Remy de Provence is a popular and lively place to stay in the heart of Provence. Amongst the narrow streets, busy restaurant tables spill onto the sidewalks and a heady scent of lavender hangs in the air. In the main square, the local market provides a wonderful opportunity to wander and discover the region’s renowned fresh produce, perhaps trying a few words in French, and gathering a selection of tempting items for lunch.
Château Margui
This secluded estate is located just 1 hour’s drive from the cafes, art galleries and tree-lined boulevards of Aix-en-Provence. The site’s origins can be traced to the pre-Roman era, the natural springs providing irrigation for crops and livestock. Today, the estate’s 115 hectares are dedicated to award-winning vineyards, indigenous oak woodland, and swathes of shimmering olive groves.
At the heart of it all is the grand 18-bedroom Château itself. Expertly renovated and furnished to world-class standards, the Suites feature King beds, sitting rooms, in-room bars, fireplaces, state-of-the-art entertainment centers, and Wifi.
Villa Highlights:
A full staff is included, featuring an on-site Concierge and gourmet-standard chef and team
Wine cellar, gym, sauna, tennis court, glorious outdoor pool and yoga studio and 18-seat movie theater
An entertainment hub includes a games room with pool table, shuffleboard and a poker table, whilst an 18-seat movie theatre in the basement is perfect for watching French classics
Paul Cézanne, French artist and impressionist, famously found solace and inspiration in the landscapes of Provence. Travelers can position their easel overlooking the magnificent Mont Sainte-Victoire just as Cézanne did from one of the many bedrooms at Chateau Margui with views that extend to the iconic landmark.
Bastide d'Aristide
An elegant, modernised 3-bedroom villa with far reaching views of the captivating Mont Ventoux – a subject of Paul Cezanne. Located in the heart of Bonnieux, this property enjoys a fantastic position with easy access to shops and restaurants.
Villa Highlights:
Three levels featuring airy and light-filled rooms, high beamed ceilings, and large windows
Walled garden and formal drawing room
French doors revealing a spacious outdoor terrace surrounded by trees, leading to a terraced garden and a small gate onto the lane below
14-meter heated infinity pool
The Bonnieux Tennis Club is located across the road and can be booked directly with the villa manager
Bonnieux is a beautiful hilltop village with winding cobbled streets to explore, and easy access to shaded cycling and walking trails in the surrounding countryside.
Villa Malvan
In amongst the squares, shops, and cafes of the town of Vence is a jewel of modern art and architecture. It was here that the painter Matisse designed and constructed his celebrated chapel, the Chapelle du Rosaire, with its beautiful, simple lines and motif stain-glass windows. The 6-bedroom Villa Malvan is conveniently positioned within walking distance of this celebrated work.
A smart and well-equipped home, set in three hectares of terraced grounds and edged with woodland
Open plan living areas with a galley kitchen equipped with marble work surfaces and a professional oven
Formal dining room opening onto a terrace and an outdoor dining area shaded with pine trees and edged with jasmine and agapanthus
Heated pool surrounded by sun-loungers and palm trees
Fully equipped pétanque court
The glamorous seaside city of Nice is just a 30 minute (scenic) drive away. As the Mediterranean sunbathes the glorious views across woodland to the Provencal coast in warm hues, the vibrant palette of Henri Matisse begs to be explored from the terrace.
Which villa would you pick to stay in?
Are you ready to book your own artistic European villa stay?
Wanderlust Concierge is here to help.