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On a narrow village road is our 18th century home, La Tonnellerie, a former cooperage that made barrels for the neighboring Côte du Rhône vineyards. Located in Vers Pont du Gard where the local quarries (which are still in operation) were the source for the stones used in the building of the Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard. This quiet village is the perfect location for launching your adventures.
In the morning take a leisurely walk in the village stopping at the boulangerie for a croissant and baguette, on to the Tabac for the day's newspaper, and end at the cafe for a coffee. Before returning home, visit the boucherie for delicious fresh sausages and meat for your dinner in the courtyard.
Our home has just been renovated to reflect Provençal charm. The large salon with its beamed ceilings, red tile floors, and large arched windows framing a picturesque view of the restored village homes is perfect for relaxation. On chilly evenings the fireplace will warm you. The room is furnished in the flavors of Provence including sofa and armchairs along with dining table and other period furnishings.
Our kitchen features an additional fireplace (non-working) and is fully equipped for preparing wonderful meals from the fresh produce of the local markets. All appliances are new including gas stove, dishwasher, butler's sink, coffee maker Kitchen Aid mixer and refrigerator.
Leaving the salon, you enter the sunny "cour" or courtyard shaded by a towering oleander. This secluded courtyard is delightful for reading, dining, or just watching the stars. A barbecue is ready for your enjoyment.
On the second level the floors are stone blocks, which like the house itself, were made from the local limestone quarries that provided the massive stones for the Pont du Gard. Two double bedrooms in the colors of Provence along with a modern bath and water closet occupy this floor.
The house is centrally heated for cooler months. The rental price includes linens and towels.
Ancient history is alive in La Tonnellerie (cooperage) and in every corner of this region. Within five minutes, (15 minutes cycling, 30 minutes walking) is the famed first century A.D. Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard, the third most visited place in France. Medieval churches and buildings can be discovered in every hill town. In Avignon (20 minutes) visit the 14th century Palace of the Popes while in Nîmes (25 minutes) you can explore the First Century Roman amphitheater. Festivals in Orange, Avignon and Nîmes are not to be missed along with the summer festivals in the bustling village of Uzès. Cote du Rhone vineyards surround the village with visits to the wineries readily available. For more adventure, within an hour is the Carmargue, Les Baux, St. Rémy, Arles, Aix en Provence. The Saturday market in Uzès (ten minutes) is one of the best in southern France.
Fill your days with activities. Explore the many back roads by bike and discover hidden towns. Hike to ancient archeological sites left by the Romans. The brocante or flea market on Sunday mornings in Uzes is full of treasures. St. Quentin la Poterie is known for its pottery. Visit the many shops and studios. In Collias, rent a canoe and float under the Pont du Gard. Enjoy a picnic with the foods from the markets in the neighboring vineyards along with a wine tasting. Walk to the limestone quarries in Vers. Have a leisurely lunch in the sunny cafes of Uzes. Drift over the vineyards in a hot air balloon. All these adventures you will find in our backyard.
The TGV stops in Avignon and there are nearby airports in Avignon, Nîmes, Montpellier with service to many European cities. The Marseilles airport serves a large number on international destinations.
We do not smoke and ask you not to smoke in our home. |