The Olive Press, Maussane-les-Alpilles, Provence

This wonderful 18th century olive mill has been impressively updated to provide a really comfortable and beautiful holiday home whilst retaining its authenticity.

The house is perfect for families with seven really good bedrooms, all with ensuite bath/shower rooms.  As a result of the original structure of the building, the living spaces are eye-catching and spacious with vaulted ceilings downstairs and several seating areas, each with its own characterful look.  There is some great modern artwork on the walls, coupled with antique furniture, old tile floors and the original wooden beams.  There is space and privacy enough for everyone  to get away and do their own thing – or come together in the huge living room which its large metal and glass door opening to the gardens and letting in the bright sunlight.

There is a large modern kitchen for those of you who are cooking enthusiasts – or why not have a cook to take care of all that……..!  And after dinner, the old olive oil store has been converted into a really large home cinema room so guests can watch a movie together on the big screen.

The house is set in 20 acres and has the advantage of two  pools.  The first is by the house in the courtyard garden which you walk through on arrival at the house.  One end has a shady loggia, perfect for breakfast or an al fresco lunch and cooled by the fountain that plays into the pool just up a few steps from the loggia.  Great for a quick, cooling dip between courses!  At the other end of the courtyard garden are the massive glass sliding doors which open into the cavernous kitchen/dining area.   The other 25 metre stone pool with its own shady pool house was built by the owner who is an underwater photographer so he could choreograph his own photo shoots.   Surrounded by olive trees and cypresses, there is plenty of space in the gardens for children to play and lots of terraces with seating and sunbathing areas – to get away from the children!

The location is superb, right in the middle of the stunning Provençal countryside and close to many charming villages and towns such as St. Rémy, Les Baux, Avignon, Aix and Arles.  There is masses to see and do in the area and the nearest restaurants are just 4km away in Maussane les Alpilles, the nearest village to the house.  (We have put just a few ideas under “Facilities” below but best to speak to Sarah for ideas as she knows the area inside out).

We cannot recommend this house more.  Exclusive and luxurious, a little bit different and offering absolute privacy and peace in a perfect location.