Our collection of Finest luxury villa rentals in Alpilles

A brief history of luxury mas and villa rentals in the Alpilles region

In the 1950s and 1960s, the Alpilles began to attract the attention of tourists looking for picturesque destinations in Provence. This led to the renovation of many traditional properties, notably mas and bastides, transformed into gîtes or chambres d’hôtes. These accommodations offered visitors an authentic experience of Provencal rural life, while benefiting from modern comforts.

Over the following decades, interest in the region continued to grow, attracting an international clientele in search of luxury stays. This stimulated the development of high-end villas, equipped with swimming pools, landscaped gardens and luxury amenities. These properties blend traditional Provencal architecture with modern amenities, meeting the expectations of the most discerning travelers.

In the 2000s, the region underwent a new wave of development with a focus on sustainable and eco-responsible tourism. Owners began to adopt environmentally-friendly practices, such as the use of renewable energies and the promotion of agro-tourism, offering visitors a more ecological and immersive experience.

Today, the Alpilles represents a perfect combination of tradition and modernity, offering a wide range of stays, from rustic mas to contemporary villas with personalized services. This evolution has preserved the essence and authenticity of the region, while offering quality stays that meet the varied needs of today’s travelers.

Who are the iconic artistic personalities who have sublimated this part of Provence?

The Alpilles, a region that captivated Vincent van Gogh with its light and landscapes, has continued to inspire many artistic personalities after him, helping to reinforce its status as an iconic destination.

Pablo Picasso: 

Although Picasso spent most of his life in other parts of France, his influence on modern art and his love of the South indirectly contributed to the appeal of the Alpilles. His contemporaries and subsequent generations of artists were drawn to the region, seeking to capture a fraction of the light and color that inspired Picasso.

Albert Camus: 

The writer and philosopher Albert Camus, although more associated with Lourmarin in the Luberon, has influenced the Provencal cultural scene as a whole. His literary approach captured the essence of the landscape and life in Provence, fostering an interest in the region.

Jacques Réattu:

Born in Arles, near the Alpilles, painter Jacques Réattu was influenced by the region’s landscape and atmosphere. Although a contemporary of Van Gogh, his work has continued to influence artists and draw attention to the region’s unique charm.

Christian Lacroix: 

Renowned fashion designer Christian Lacroix, a native of Arles, often drew on the imagination and colors of Provence for his creations. His work has helped promote Provençal style and aesthetics on the world stage.

Contemporary photographers:

Many contemporary photographers have also been drawn to the Alpilles, capturing the region’s unique light and changing landscapes. Their work continues to promote the beauty of the Alpilles in art exhibitions and publications around the world.

These personalities, among others, have helped shape the image of the Alpilles as a place of artistic inspiration and beauty, attracting a constant stream of visitors and art lovers. Their legacy lives on, making the Alpilles a destination not only for lovers of nature and history, but also for those seeking artistic inspiration.

The Villages of the Alpilles: Destinations of Choice for Luxury Villa Stays

The Alpilles, a picturesque mountain range in Provence, is home to a number of charming villages, each offering unique features for a luxury villa rental stay. Let’s explore these villages and discover the type of stay recommended for each.

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: Cultural and artistic immersion

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a village rich in history and culture, is ideal for cultural and artistic stays. Here, a luxury villa with heated pool offers the perfect retreat after a day exploring historic sites and art galleries. The air-conditioned rooms offer the ultimate in comfort and relaxation.

Les Baux-de-Provence: History and exceptional panoramas

Les Baux-de-Provence, perched on a rocky outcrop, offers spectacular views. For a stay focused on history and nature, the villas here, often featuring spacious gardens and living rooms with views, are ideal. Discover the village’s medieval heritage and relax in renovated farmhouses with swimming pools.

Eygalières : Rustic charm and hiking

Eygalières, a discreet and charming village, is perfect for quiet stays. Traditional mas rentals with lush gardens and private pools offer an authentic experience. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Alpilles trails.

Maussane-les-Alpilles : Gastronomy and relaxation

Maussane-les-Alpilles, renowned for its gastronomy, is ideal for gourmet holidays. Luxury villas with fully equipped kitchens let you savor local produce. Enjoy outdoor dining rooms and heated swimming pools for moments of absolute relaxation.

Paradou: Family and Leisure Stays

Paradou, with its peaceful ambience, is perfect for family vacations. The properties often offer large rooms suitable for groups, gardens for outdoor activities and secure swimming pools for children.

Each of these villages in the Alpilles offers a unique experience for stays in luxury villas. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, gastronomy or simply relaxation in a luxurious setting, the Alpilles has a lot to offer.

Calendar of festivities in the Alpilles

The Alpilles, with its charming villages, offers a variety of cultural, gastronomic and traditional festivities throughout the year. Here’s an overview of the region’s major events, specifying the time of year and the villages involved.

January to March: Cultural and Gastronomic Winter

• Truffle Festival in Maussane-les-Alpilles (January): Celebration of the truffle, with tastings and specialized markets. Ideal for luxury villa renters looking to discover local flavors.
• Carnaval de Saint-Rémy-de-Provence (March): A traditional carnival with colorful parades, perfect for a family stay in a villa with pool.

April to June: Artistic and Musical Spring

• Flower Festival in Eygalières (April): A floral festival that transforms the village, ideal for visitors staying in typical mas.
• Les Rencontres Musicales en Alpilles in Paradou (May): A musical event celebrating various genres, perfect for those staying in local properties for an enriching cultural experience.

July to September: Festive and Traditional Summer

• Fête de la Saint-Rémy in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence (July): A traditional festival with markets, shows and fireworks, ideal for a luxury villa rental with garden.
• Les Fêtes de la Saint-Eloi in Maussane-les-Alpilles (August): Traditional celebrations with horse parades and popular dances, ideal for a stay with family or friends in spacious villas.

October to December: Gourmet and Artistic Autumn

• Festival des Alpilles in Paradou (October): A festival celebrating Provencal art and culture, perfect for stays in houses with spacious rooms for culturally inclined groups.
• Christmas markets in several villages (December): Festive markets ideal for discovering local crafts and gastronomy, offering a magical atmosphere for those staying in villas with heated pools.

These festivities in the Alpilles offer a unique opportunity to discover the region’s rich culture and traditions, while enjoying the comfort and luxury of the villas, mas and houses available for rent. Whether you choose Saint-Rémy, Maussane, Eygalières or Paradou, each village has something unique to offer, depending on the season.

How to reach your vacation destination in the Alpilles?

Practicalities :

Visiting the Alpilles, this magnificent region of Provence, is an experience in itself, marked by the beauty of the landscapes it traverses. Whether you’re planning a vacation in a luxury villa in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a family stay in a traditional mas in Maussane-les-Alpilles, or a getaway with friends in a house with swimming pool in Eygalières, here are a few practical tips to make your arrival easier.

By Plane

• Nearest airport: Marseille-Provence airport is the closest to Les Alpilles, about an hour’s drive away. From here, you can rent a car or take a cab to your destination. It’s a convenient option for international visitors and those looking for quick access to their luxury rental.

By Train

• Accessible stations: Avignon TGV station is an excellent option, offering fast connections to Paris and other major French and European cities. Once in Avignon, you can rent a car or take a cab to the Alpilles, which takes around 30 minutes.

By Car

• Road access: Les Alpilles is easily accessible by road, with well-maintained freeways and trunk roads. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to visit different villages at your own pace and take full advantage of the picturesque scenery.

Car Rental

• Rental services: A wide range of car rental services are available at Marseille-Provence airport and Avignon TGV station. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in high season, to guarantee availability and obtain the best rates.

Local Transports

• Getting around the Alpilles: Although car rental is the most flexible option, some Alpilles villages are also accessible by local public transport. Buses connect the main villages, although services can be limited.

Arrival at Your Villa

• Coordination with the Rental Agency: Don’t forget to contact your rental agency to arrange the details of your arrival. Let them know your expected arrival time and any special requirements, especially if you’re staying in a luxury villa, mas or house with special facilities such as a heated pool or air-conditioned rooms.

Planning your trip to the Alpilles with care will enable you to start your vacation in the most relaxed and enjoyable way possible, letting you take full advantage of the charms of this unique region of Provence.

The 4 Most Beautiful Walks to Do in the Alpilles

The Alpilles, an emblematic region of Provence, offers a varied and enchanting landscape, perfect for walks and bike excursions. Whether you’re staying in a comfortable room in a traditional mas, or enjoying a luxurious villa with swimming pool, these itineraries will help you discover the splendor of the Alpilles.

Parc Naturel Régional des Alpilles: The Crest Trail

• Level of difficulty: Medium | Duration: 3 hours
• This hike offers spectacular views of the Alpilles and surrounding valley, ideal for those looking to explore the region beyond their vacation rental.

Stroll around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: The Antiques and Glanum

• Level of difficulty: Easy | Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Perfect for a family outing, this cultural walk leads to fascinating historical sites near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.

Circuit des Baux-De-Provence

• Level of difficulty: Medium | Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Discover the medieval village of Les Baux-de-Provence and its surroundings, a rewarding tour for lovers of Provencal history and landscapes.

Eygalières: Chemin des Oliviers

• Level of difficulty: Easy | Duration: 1 hour
• A soothing walk through olive groves, offering charming views over the village of Eygalières and the surrounding hills.

Bicycle Itinerary: The Olive Route

• Level of difficulty: Medium | Distance: 25 km
• Explore the Alpilles by bike, passing through picturesque villages and natural landscapes, perfect for an active day away from your luxury resort.

These walks and the cycling itinerary are the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Alpilles, ideally complementing the experience of staying in this region of Provence, whether in a villa with pool or in a traditional mas.

Emblematic elements of Alpilles garden homes

The local craftsmanship of the Alpilles, an emblematic region of Provence, is remarkably reflected in the region’s architectural style and gardens. Here are four types of craftsmanship typically associated with Alpilles architecture and two that embellish gardens.

Local crafts in Alpilles architecture

Pierre de Taille: The use of precision-cut local stone is a characteristic feature of Alpilles architecture. Facades, door and window frames, and chimneys are often made of this stone, adding a touch of authenticity and robustness.

La Ferronnerie d’Art: Ironwork, or the art of working with wrought iron, can be seen in railings, balconies, gates and wall decorations. This craftsmanship brings elegance and finesse to properties, whether luxury villas, farmhouses or traditional houses.

Les Tuiles Anciennes: The roofs of the Alpilles are often covered with locally-made terracotta tiles. These tiles, with their typical reddish color, contribute greatly to the region’s traditional aesthetic.

Lime coatings: Building facades are frequently covered with lime coatings, a traditional technique that naturally regulates humidity and temperature inside homes, while offering a typically Provencal aesthetic appearance.

Crafts embellishing gardens

La Poterie d’Anduze: These terracotta garden pots, originally from the town of Anduze but very popular in the Alpilles, are a classic addition to gardens. Their elegant design and varied colors add an authentic Provencal touch.

Garden Sculptures: Stone sculpture is another local craft that embellishes the gardens of the Alpilles. Sculpted fountains, statues and benches are often used to create peaceful, decorative spaces.

These elements of local craftsmanship not only bear witness to the rich cultural heritage of the Alpilles, they also contribute to the unique atmosphere and charm of the luxury villas, mas and houses with swimming pools in this magnificent region of Provence.

Some testimonials and opinions from our customers who have chosen the Alpilles

“As an expatriate family in Asia, we return to the Alpilles every two years for vacations. Each time, we choose a different villa to explore new aspects of this beautiful region. We’ve stayed in traditional mas with private heated pools and lush gardens, perfect for our children. We’ve also enjoyed modern villas near villages like Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Eygalières, offering proximity to local markets and Provencal culture. Each stay brings us new memories and a renewed appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the Alpilles.”

“As a design couple, we’re constantly on the lookout for inspiration and beauty. The Alpilles, with its picturesque landscapes and elegant architecture, is a haven for our creativity. We stayed in an exquisitely decorated luxury villa, reflecting the charm and elegance of Provence. We were deeply inspired by the combination of local craftsmanship, such as wrought ironwork and ancient tiles, with modern design. Walks through the villages and interactions with local artists enriched our stay, adding a cultural dimension to our vacation experience.”

“Working in the film industry, I was looking for a vacation spot that offered both quality and discretion, in the sun and particularly easy to get to. The Alpilles was the perfect choice. The region attracts top-quality people, including other professionals from the film and performing arts industries, creating a unique atmosphere where you can relax while making meaningful connections. I chose a private villa in a tranquil setting with a beautiful garden and heated pool, offering the ideal space for relaxation and reflection. The proximity to culturally rich villages like Maussane-les-Alpilles and the quality of interactions with local residents and visitors made my stay truly exceptional.”