LA BASTIDE DU CIEL

The boulangerie in the village of Valbonne is always a hive of activity — not just for collecting daily baguettes and warm, fresh croissants, but as the place to catch up on village gossip, the weather forecast, French politics, and the occasional much-debated recipe tip.

Just 10 minutes from Valbonne, and within walking distance of the local bakery, sits La Bastide du Ciel, a traditional 18th-century stone villa boasting outstanding views across the countryside towards the Bay of Cannes.

Perfectly suited to families and groups of friends, this beautiful luxury villa offers plenty of opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors, set within three acres of grounds dotted with olive trees and Mediterranean oak. A private 14m x 4m swimming pool (heating available at an additional cost), a summer kitchen with barbecue, and its own pétanque court, perfect for mastering the French national game, round out the outdoor offering.

Recently renovated, the interiors are simply furnished yet thoroughly comfortable, striking a pleasing balance between traditional and modern touches. Features include original stone walls, a spacious country-style kitchen, and a generous layout offering six air-conditioned bedrooms within the main house. An additional two-bedroom cottage is also available for larger groups at a supplementary cost. Owing to the traditional architecture of this period property, guests should note the attic bedrooms feature low ceilings and characterful, quirky bathrooms.

The villa’s kitchen is well equipped, including an AGA and a handy central island for easy meal preparation, and follows a traditional design with exposed ceiling beams, stone walls, and a wooden spiral staircase. This staircase leads up to a TV room, which can also double as a playroom.

The naturally light dining room offers a lovely setting for more formal meals, while the living room feels equally inviting, with a deep, comfortable sofa and a wood-burning stove, perfect for cooler months. Both the living and dining rooms open out onto a classic Provençal courtyard, a lovely private space to enjoy the grounds and rural outlook towards the coast.

Air conditioning is fitted throughout La Bastide du Ciel, including all bedrooms — both in the main house and cottage — as well as the TV room and kitchen.