LA VIEILLE BERGERIE
Undoubtedly the most striking is the panorama to the south and south-west where the views stretch for 50+ kilometres over the forested Massif des Maures. Sunsets are magical. Tranquillity and privacy are assured by 2,5 hectares (6 acres) of terraced grounds – olive trees, rough grass and wild thyme predominate here. Near the house are two terraces for all fresco dining, a salt-water pool and a colourful garden shaded by olive, oak and mulberry trees.
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Breathtaking views
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approx. 10 min. walk to the picturesque village of Tourtour
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Swimming pool
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International TV channels, DVD, WLAN, & more
THE VILLAGE
Tourtour - the ‘village in the sky’ is one of the most beautiful villages of Provence. It is perched at 630m above sea level with breathtaking views from the church at the top of the hill and from the charming little square at its heart. The oldest part is typically Provencal with dwellings bordering narrow alleyways around the 11th century chateau. The original hamlet houses, the 18th century olive mill, a fossil museum and one or two art galleries.
The 'Place des Ormes' is the centre of village life. Here there are more arty boutiques, a couple of open air cafés and the square where the twice-weekly market takes place. Close by is the newer of the two châteaux which houses the Mairie, the little tourist office, the post office and the doctor’s surgery.
It’s a short walk up to the 12th century church of St Denis at the top of the hill from where the views are even more spectacular. In peak season there are a few music festivals, dances and village meals in the square but most of the time the pace of life is a leisurely plod.
SHOPS
There a small supermarket in the village for essentials including also a tiny bakery section. The other shops in Tourtour are mainly arts and crafts but there are larger supermarkets in Salernes and Aups , both about 10 km away.
RESTAURANTS
At the last count, there were nine restaurants within walking distance (incl. a Bib Gourmant restaurant) and many, many good restaurants within 10 - 15 km.
MARKETS
Tourtour’s main market is on Saturday; The best Provencal markets are in Lorgues (Tuesdays) and Aups (Saturdays) and Salernes on Sunday – they all have a large following so get there early.
THE BEAUTIFUL LIVE
GOLF
Approx. 10 km: Driving range and 4-5 holes in Salernes
Approx. 35 km: St-Andréol, La Motte
Approx. 40 km: Barbaroux, Brignoles
Approx. 50 km: Beauvallon, Grimaud
SWIMMING
Swimming in the Lac de Ste-Croix is very peaceful (no outboard motors allowed). St-Croix-du-Verdon (30 km) is a charming little village with good restaurants and electric pedalos for hire from the 'plage'.
BEACHES
Nearby Mediterranean beaches are Gigaro, near La Croix-Valmer (65 km) and Cavalière, near Le Lavandou (75 km). There are good beaches just to the south of St-Tropez but sadly the traffic congestion can be high in July and August.