Tastefully renovated Puyloubier Holiday Home, Provence Reviews

My husband and I rented this lovely home in the heart of Puyloubier for one month...the hot one. On our first night we sat out on the rooftop terrace, washed in the warm summer breeze, looking at the panoramic view of the nearby vineyards and the spectacular Mount St. Victoire mountain-range. Step out the door and walk up the village stairs to find the footpath to hikes and walks up and across the Mt. St. Victoire plateau. A cyclist's dream, the village sits in the middle of a pass-through for the many cyclists testing their medal on the narrow roads winding through and between the gorgeous rural villages. There are two patisseries where you can get your daily fresh carbs, and delicious treats as well as fresh sandwiches. Or run down the street (50 yards) to the local village grocery store to grab everything you need for a lovely meal at home on the terrace. The village has its own wine co-op where you can purchase the local wines at very low prices and absolutely wonderful. The village in the summer presents weekly live theatrical and music performances and concerts. You will be welcomed by this community. The location of this village is perfect. 15 minutes from Aix en Provence, an incredibly lively, hip, and historic metropolitan city hub, where the painter Paul Cezanne and endless others are celebrated. We enjoyed several wine tastings at local vineyards and dined at the two local cafes; one casual, family-friendly (Cafe St Victoire) where we often dined out in the central village square; the other (Les Sarments) still casual but more elegant, expensive, and subdued...and a treat. Marseille, the most spectacular port city and the oldest in France, is only 35 minutes away (as is the nearest airport). You need more than one full day to explore the neighborhoods, museums, dining opportunities, and music scene. We had the unique pleasure of meeting the owners during our last week, and as a result of the evenings on the terrace, have come to know, shared meals, and of course, good wine. The house is comfortable and situated with everything you'll need. (Remember, the French do not use clothes dryers---because they, like so many others, are far more eco-friendly than the U.S.) but we loved having our clothes line dried by the sweet, Provencal air. Don't hesitate. Go to Puyloubier. Enjoy it and then start planning on your next trip back, as we do.