Location is everything::
Menerbes is the heart of one of the most enchanted corners of this world – the Luberon. Everything you read about in ‘A Year in Provence’ is here - the lavender-scented landscapes; daily markets overflowing with local produce that actually tastes of something; hilltop villages rising above the sea of vineyards and sunflowers; outstanding food and wine; and the sensational quality of light that has always brought painters and poets here. In Provence, everything simply tastes, smells, and looks better than at home. And it’s all right on your doorstep.
This is a year-round destination - the Luberon in winter is as beautiful in its way as during the long summer that can stretch from May to October. High above the cares of the world, the house is perfect for a romantic couple (or two) - whether inspired by the ever-changing light or comforted by a roaring log fire.
The house::
The house used to be the office of the village notary and is actually where Peter Mayle bought his Menerbes house. I converted it into a home. As every room faces south to the Luberon mountain I put in as many new windows as were allowed and the result is you feel suspended above the valley below, and in touch with the mountain opposite. The light changes constantly with the trajectory of the sun. It's a great place for writers and painters to be inspired, or the rest of us to just gaze and enjoy. I furnished and decorated the house with no expense spared – I did not know then of the cruel hand fate would deal me - I would soon be drawn back to England by the lady who is now my wife. Sofa and armchairs are hand-made, tiles are made and painted by hand, every home comfort is included. When you come home from exploring the wonders of Provence, your accommodation is all part of the experience. The most common observation I hear from guests is: 'Your website doesn't do it justice.'
Things to do (some suggestions among many)::
Choose from an endless number of walks in the 120,000 ha Luberon Natural Park, starting from your doorstep.... Go to the daily local markets and rediscover what food used to taste like....Cycle round the famous hilltop villages: Gordes, Bonnieux, Lacoste, Roussillon, Lourmarin....Antique and bric-a-brac hunting at Isle-sur-Sorgue – France’s antiques capital.... Explore Fontaine de Vaucluse - source of the crystal-clear Sorgue river (or ride a canoe down it)....Visit the Marquis de Sade's castle at neighbouring Lacoste....Learn to paint sunflowers....Picnic in the cedar forests outside lovely Bonnieux....Drive to the top of Mont Ventoux (cycle if you're mad) and let the Alps and the Med take your breath away...Marseille, 1 hour away, is France's most exciting city, and home to the world's best bouillabaisse....Avignon, half an hour away, is a fascinating medieval city you can walk around in a day....Go wine-tasting at the local vineyards or just beyond Avignon for some great Rhone wines
marks the location of the property in Luberon
