Reviews of Property: Luxury villa with a/c next to beach. Heated Pool. Featured on a Place in the sun
Description
Villa, 200 m²,
5 Bedrooms, Sleeps 10, 5 Bathrooms, 1 Separate Toilet
5 Bedrooms, Sleeps 10, 5 Bathrooms, 1 Separate Toilet
Facilities
beach, near the sea,
pool,
terrace,
balcony,
pets considered
Rates
per property
(GBP)
£1,600 -
£3,200/week
Jack Gallagher
+44 7919-415686
+44 141-342 4165
+44 141-342 4165
Speaks: English
7 Reviews of Property 61782 in Saint-Raphael, France
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1
Early summer sun
Review Submitted: August 1, 2008
Date of Stay: May 2008
We had a fantastic week (too short) at Villa Irene with my friends and teenage son at the start of summer 2008. The villa is bright, sunny and modern, the upper floor bedrooms and full length balcony giving great views and a feeling of proximity to the med. We walked to the small pretty beach nearby most days but there is a larger beach at Agay a short drive or 40 minute walk away if you prefer it to be livlier. There are a few local restaurants but “Matuzia”, with its Moroccan/French food and relaxed atmosphere was easily our favourite. The setting of the villa provided a range of activities from easy hiking and mountain biking in the Esterel National forest, golf and tennis at Vallescure to shopping and dining in Cannes.
Katie and her team were very helpful and accommodating and we will be hopefully returning for another visit in the near future.
Katie and her team were very helpful and accommodating and we will be hopefully returning for another visit in the near future.
Villa Irene-a fantastic holiday on the Med
Review Submitted: October 14, 2008
Date of Stay: March 2008
Our family of 4 had an excellent stay at Villa Irene last spring, and found that it met or exceed our expectations on all counts. The villa was spotless when we arrived, and Kathleen was very helpful with questions we had as well as providing information on local attractions and activities. The kitchen is modern, highly functional, and very well equipped with both staples and cooking equipment.
The overall layout of the villa is perfect for both lounging and entertaining. There is an extensive DVD library and large flat screen monitor for viewing television, and we spent several cozy nights around the wood-burning fireplace watching the best of British comedy. Late breakfasts in the sun on the patio outside the kitchen were a highlight. The rooms are all beautiful, with full views of the sea and small harbor available from both the comfortable beds, the south facing balcony that surrounds the upper level, and in some cases from the bathroom! Although the weather was a bit cool during our March visit, we did get into the heated pool on several occasions, and found it and the sunny deck delightful.
We found that with a car (inexpensive to rent at the Nice airport), we had great access to local shopping, restaurants, and other activities. The hiking, climbing, mountain or road-biking and bird-watching potential in the immediate area was astounding, and we were only able to tap the surface of this beautiful area during our 2 week visit. Apart from the natural beauty associated with this part of the coast and immediate mountains inland, there are fantastic destinations for restaurants, shopping, beaches, and more, all within at most a couple of hours. For those who prefer, there is a very convenient train stop less than 5 minutes walk from the villa that travels conveniently along the coast in both directions, and we had a great day on the train going into Cannes for some sight-seeing.
All in all it was a fantastic trip. As I said, mid-March was a bit on the cool side, but we enjoyed being on the French Riviera without the summer crowds, and would not hesitate to return at that time. Many thanks for the great vacation and memories…we’d love to come back!
The overall layout of the villa is perfect for both lounging and entertaining. There is an extensive DVD library and large flat screen monitor for viewing television, and we spent several cozy nights around the wood-burning fireplace watching the best of British comedy. Late breakfasts in the sun on the patio outside the kitchen were a highlight. The rooms are all beautiful, with full views of the sea and small harbor available from both the comfortable beds, the south facing balcony that surrounds the upper level, and in some cases from the bathroom! Although the weather was a bit cool during our March visit, we did get into the heated pool on several occasions, and found it and the sunny deck delightful.
We found that with a car (inexpensive to rent at the Nice airport), we had great access to local shopping, restaurants, and other activities. The hiking, climbing, mountain or road-biking and bird-watching potential in the immediate area was astounding, and we were only able to tap the surface of this beautiful area during our 2 week visit. Apart from the natural beauty associated with this part of the coast and immediate mountains inland, there are fantastic destinations for restaurants, shopping, beaches, and more, all within at most a couple of hours. For those who prefer, there is a very convenient train stop less than 5 minutes walk from the villa that travels conveniently along the coast in both directions, and we had a great day on the train going into Cannes for some sight-seeing.
All in all it was a fantastic trip. As I said, mid-March was a bit on the cool side, but we enjoyed being on the French Riviera without the summer crowds, and would not hesitate to return at that time. Many thanks for the great vacation and memories…we’d love to come back!
Birthday Celebrations at Villa Irene
Review Submitted: September 15, 2008
Date of Stay: August 2008
I wanted to spend my 40th birthday somewhere special and Villa Irene certainly lived up to my expectations. It is situated in an idyllic location so that every morning from my bed I could see the sun rising across the sea. It really was quite breathtaking.
From Villa Irene, the biggest town St. Raphael is a half hour drive away. From there you can get a train to anywhere in France. We would have done more train travel if we had been there longer. What was delightful was that we were able to get a boat from St. Raphael across to St. Tropez. Whilst I was there Elton John just happened to be in town, shopping at Dolce and Gabana. The locals were going crazy.
Agay, a 10 minute drive away from the villa has a local supermarket and more beautiful beaches and restaurants. The best restaurant I ate at was actually right on our doorstep. Opposite the villa is a hotel where we had a couple of really delicious meals. It is definitely worth a visit.
I received a warm reception from Katie who did everything to make sure that our needs were catered for. The villa is in prestine condition. My brother unfortunately for us tried to find every opportunity to watch sky TV and my neices, aged 4 and 7 were never out of the pool. The pool has a safety device that beeps if a child is in trouble in the water.
I always felt safe at the Villa. There are electronic shutters which give that extra security. At night we had all of them closed and when we were leaving the villa for any period of time we also shut them up. We were able to put any money, passports and valuable items in the safe for which the owner gave us the code.
Our intention was to have a barbecue one evening but we just didn't have the time.
I have fond memories of my stay and will certainly be returning in the not to distant future.
From Villa Irene, the biggest town St. Raphael is a half hour drive away. From there you can get a train to anywhere in France. We would have done more train travel if we had been there longer. What was delightful was that we were able to get a boat from St. Raphael across to St. Tropez. Whilst I was there Elton John just happened to be in town, shopping at Dolce and Gabana. The locals were going crazy.
Agay, a 10 minute drive away from the villa has a local supermarket and more beautiful beaches and restaurants. The best restaurant I ate at was actually right on our doorstep. Opposite the villa is a hotel where we had a couple of really delicious meals. It is definitely worth a visit.
I received a warm reception from Katie who did everything to make sure that our needs were catered for. The villa is in prestine condition. My brother unfortunately for us tried to find every opportunity to watch sky TV and my neices, aged 4 and 7 were never out of the pool. The pool has a safety device that beeps if a child is in trouble in the water.
I always felt safe at the Villa. There are electronic shutters which give that extra security. At night we had all of them closed and when we were leaving the villa for any period of time we also shut them up. We were able to put any money, passports and valuable items in the safe for which the owner gave us the code.
Our intention was to have a barbecue one evening but we just didn't have the time.
I have fond memories of my stay and will certainly be returning in the not to distant future.
A family holiday for three generations
Review Submitted: September 9, 2008
Date of Stay: May 2008
The property, its location, layout and amenities lived fully up to our expections. It was clean, well maintained and very user friendly; I loved the electronic shutters and the views from all but one of the bedrooms were stunning. With all rooms effectively having on suite bathrooms we had sufficient space for privacy. The lounge, dining room, and patio area were ideal for the seven of us and the swimming pool used daily.We were welcomed and the owner checked on whether we had all we required in the course of our stay. The supply of herbs in the kitchen was impressive and there was even wine in the racks in case we went short. The restaurant very near to the property was good enough for us to eat at twice during our stay and the restaurant recommended by the owner was exceptional. I also mastered the gas barbeque when we decided to eat in. We managed to be at Cannes at the time of the film festival, Monte Carlo for the start of the Grand Pre, and St Tropez for the Harley Davidson International festival; we even got to the beach. The little shop at the nearby camping site was a good source of bread and croissants but you needed to get there early. I already have recommended the property to a friend.
Our holiday
Review Submitted: July 25, 2008
Date of Stay: June 2008
Villa is a little bit out of the way. Quite in June, nearest town a good 20 minute walk. Unfortunate that the villa was robbed while we were in it. Cash stolen and we walked in on the robbery and one member of the party was pepper sprayed. Pool a little small as there was eight of us.
Property was clean when we arrived. Not many nice restaurants near by so a car is necessary for this villa.
Freezer door was broken when we arrived but when we left cost was taken from our securty deposit. We were also charged for linen because we got after sun on it. Took 5 weeks to get security deposit back from owner. Ultimatley I suppose if the question was "would you return here again", unfortunatly I would have to say I would not.
Property was clean when we arrived. Not many nice restaurants near by so a car is necessary for this villa.
Freezer door was broken when we arrived but when we left cost was taken from our securty deposit. We were also charged for linen because we got after sun on it. Took 5 weeks to get security deposit back from owner. Ultimatley I suppose if the question was "would you return here again", unfortunatly I would have to say I would not.
Owner's Response: The damages which occurred during this clients stay at the villa were so extensive that we had to make some deductions from her security deposit. Prior to this she had described her stay at our villa as “wonderful”.
The villa is in a quiet village in the Esterel national park. It could be regarded as out of the way if one is looking for crowded beaches and a bustling nightlife. The nearest town, Agay, is about a 45 minute walk along the coast, or 5 minutes by car. We make this clear in the listing and also recommend a car.
Unfortunately, the villa was robbed while this client was there. Robberies occur along the coast each summer but can be avoided by taking simple precautions. We always reinforce the issue of security with clients on their arrival and mention it in the welcome pack. All of the patio doors were left open by the clients allowing easy access from the balcony to all of the bedrooms. My sister, Katie, contacted the police and acted as translator after the robbery. She made sure all the documents required for making an insurance claim were obtained from the police. No charge was made for this service.
The pool is 6 metres by 4.5 metres, as stated on our listing and is about average for a villa of 200 square metres. We also have a swim machine fitted should clients feel the need to cover some distance in the pool.
There are three restaurants within 5 minutes walk. Two of these are regarded as decent quality as they are part of good quality hotels. The other is attached to a local campsite.
The freezer door was not broken when these clients arrived. The villa was thoroughly cleaned and checked between clients and such a defect would have been evident.
A charge was made for some replacement linen which had dark green stains. Katie made several attempts to remove these stains. No charge was made for cleaning attempts and time; only for the actual cost of replacement linen. We are pretty sure the stains are hair dye, not after-sun.
We returned the security deposit as soon as all costs relating to the damages were known.
The clients broke other items during their stay, which we overlooked. They also left the keys to the main door in the lock when they left meaning we could not unlock the door. We had to break in through a window and have it re-glazed before the next client’s arrival two hours later. We transported the window to the glazier, and only charged for the cost of fitting the glass.
The villa is in a quiet village in the Esterel national park. It could be regarded as out of the way if one is looking for crowded beaches and a bustling nightlife. The nearest town, Agay, is about a 45 minute walk along the coast, or 5 minutes by car. We make this clear in the listing and also recommend a car.
Unfortunately, the villa was robbed while this client was there. Robberies occur along the coast each summer but can be avoided by taking simple precautions. We always reinforce the issue of security with clients on their arrival and mention it in the welcome pack. All of the patio doors were left open by the clients allowing easy access from the balcony to all of the bedrooms. My sister, Katie, contacted the police and acted as translator after the robbery. She made sure all the documents required for making an insurance claim were obtained from the police. No charge was made for this service.
The pool is 6 metres by 4.5 metres, as stated on our listing and is about average for a villa of 200 square metres. We also have a swim machine fitted should clients feel the need to cover some distance in the pool.
There are three restaurants within 5 minutes walk. Two of these are regarded as decent quality as they are part of good quality hotels. The other is attached to a local campsite.
The freezer door was not broken when these clients arrived. The villa was thoroughly cleaned and checked between clients and such a defect would have been evident.
A charge was made for some replacement linen which had dark green stains. Katie made several attempts to remove these stains. No charge was made for cleaning attempts and time; only for the actual cost of replacement linen. We are pretty sure the stains are hair dye, not after-sun.
We returned the security deposit as soon as all costs relating to the damages were known.
The clients broke other items during their stay, which we overlooked. They also left the keys to the main door in the lock when they left meaning we could not unlock the door. We had to break in through a window and have it re-glazed before the next client’s arrival two hours later. We transported the window to the glazier, and only charged for the cost of fitting the glass.
Highly Recommended
Review Submitted: March 18, 2008
Date of Stay: October 2007
We stayed at the beautiful Villa Irene with a group of friends at the end of summer 2007.
We found the bedrooms to be charming, and each has a unique bathroom. It was clear the owners had lavished considerable care and shown much attention-to-detail during the recent restoration of the villa. Of the two bathrooms with bath tubs, one offers a very pleasant view over the Mediterranean. Each bathroom also has a fantastic luxurious shower.
Three of the four bedrooms are south-facing, with doors opening out onto the balcony that runs the length of the building. We opened the doors in the morning onto a gorgeous sea view and often relaxed in bed listening to the waves lapping at the shore... heaven.
We liked the spacious kitchen which was very well equipped, with all necessary mod-cons.
The open-plan living-room / dining area provided ample space for our group to eat, rest and relax, with tasteful furniture and furnishings, a large screen satellite TV and no shortage of DVDs to choose from.
As far as outdoor activities are concerned, we found the villa offers easy access to the Estrel National Park. Beautiful walking routes (or running routes, for the energetic one in our group) are but a stone's throw from the villa. And, after a hard-days walking (... or just an easy-day's sunbathing on the patio...) we made frequent use of the swimming pool. The circulating current swim-machine was a nice idea to clock up some distance.
A number of our group used the villa as a base to explore some of the nearby rock-climbing possibilities. The owners were very helpful in providing plenty of information and guidebooks on the countless climbing possibilities in the area.
We found the bedrooms to be charming, and each has a unique bathroom. It was clear the owners had lavished considerable care and shown much attention-to-detail during the recent restoration of the villa. Of the two bathrooms with bath tubs, one offers a very pleasant view over the Mediterranean. Each bathroom also has a fantastic luxurious shower.
Three of the four bedrooms are south-facing, with doors opening out onto the balcony that runs the length of the building. We opened the doors in the morning onto a gorgeous sea view and often relaxed in bed listening to the waves lapping at the shore... heaven.
We liked the spacious kitchen which was very well equipped, with all necessary mod-cons.
The open-plan living-room / dining area provided ample space for our group to eat, rest and relax, with tasteful furniture and furnishings, a large screen satellite TV and no shortage of DVDs to choose from.
As far as outdoor activities are concerned, we found the villa offers easy access to the Estrel National Park. Beautiful walking routes (or running routes, for the energetic one in our group) are but a stone's throw from the villa. And, after a hard-days walking (... or just an easy-day's sunbathing on the patio...) we made frequent use of the swimming pool. The circulating current swim-machine was a nice idea to clock up some distance.
A number of our group used the villa as a base to explore some of the nearby rock-climbing possibilities. The owners were very helpful in providing plenty of information and guidebooks on the countless climbing possibilities in the area.
2 Wochen in der Villa Irene
Review Submitted: November 10, 2009
Date of Stay: September 2009
Der Eigentümer des Feriendomizils hatte auf Anfrage uns schriftlich versichert, dass das Haus sich in einem sehr ruhigen Küstenstreifen befände. Wir erlebten jedoch starke und intensive Lärmimmissionen: Verkehr-Küstenstrasse, v.a. sehr laute Motorräder; ebenso ist der Lärm von der nahen Eisenbahn beachtlich.
Vom Trottoir, oberhalb des Hauses ist der Einblick zum Pool möglich.
Pool-Mobiliar war wenig bequem und zum Teil in defektem Zustand.
Wiederholtes Eindringen von Gewitterregen in den Wohnbereich.
Gas (Kochherd) am ersten Wochenende zu Ende gegangen!
Von den zwei zugesicherten Reinigungsservices, wurde einer nicht ausgeführt.
Auto zwingend: schmales Eingangstor zum Hof vor dem Feriendomizil.
Preis-Leistungsverhältnis stimmt nicht. Von unserer Seite her keine Empfehlung des Domizils.
Vom Trottoir, oberhalb des Hauses ist der Einblick zum Pool möglich.
Pool-Mobiliar war wenig bequem und zum Teil in defektem Zustand.
Wiederholtes Eindringen von Gewitterregen in den Wohnbereich.
Gas (Kochherd) am ersten Wochenende zu Ende gegangen!
Von den zwei zugesicherten Reinigungsservices, wurde einer nicht ausgeführt.
Auto zwingend: schmales Eingangstor zum Hof vor dem Feriendomizil.
Preis-Leistungsverhältnis stimmt nicht. Von unserer Seite her keine Empfehlung des Domizils.
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