Villa Jolivet
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Undoubtedly one of the finest quality restorations we've found on our travels in the South of France, Villa Jolivet is a 600 year old farmhouse saved from ruin,...
Read moreOverview
Undoubtedly one of the finest quality restorations we've found on our travels in the South of France, Villa Jolivet is a 600 year old farmhouse saved from ruin, and reborn as a glorious fusion of modern luxury and rural tradition.
After years of tireless dedication from the previous owners, this villa today offers all the mod cons and unique touches you could ever desire from a five star retreat. Stepping through the heavy wooden front doors you enter a large hall with it's own olive tree blooming up from the tiled floor. Across the kitchen, living and dining areas high stone or vaulted ceilings contrast exquisitely with the tasteful modern furnishings, and provide a constant reminder of the history that surrounds.
Villa Jolivet sits on 40,000 square metres of private land in the verdant Languedoc countryside, conveniently located in seductive Vézénobres, between the Roman city of Nimes and the medieval stronghold of Uzes.
For exhilarating excursions in the surrounding wilderness, there are four mountain bikes and two Quads for guests to use.
Among the vast array of immaculately finished rooms, a few that stood out included the library with its fascinating collection of wise, old books, and grand stone fireplace. Then there's stylish cocktail room leading out to the garden, the cosy cinema room, and a well equipped modern gym that still manages to maintain the character of the building with the climbing wall built into the original stone.
Moving outside you are met with a breathtaking triumph of landscaping, as the long swimming pool stretches out before you, providing the focal point in a fully equipped garden of neat patios, lawns and rows of trees. Guests also have access to such outdoor luxuries as tennis and petanque courts, and a sheltered summer kitchen/lounge area with large custom BBQ.
Villa Jolivet is a truly special villa rental, where no matter the size of your group there will be something for everyone. Why not book a stay now, and come find out what you'll love most about this one of a kind destination!
What you should know…
- Villa Jolivet sleeps up to 19 guests across 10 bedrooms including two suites (with two bedrooms) and a separate cottage/annexe (ideal for accompanying staff).
- Air-conditioning is featured in the upper floor bedrooms and in the cottage/annexe only.
- Please check the “Features tab” carefully for the details of each of the bedrooms, some of which include mezzanine levels with ladders.
- This is a spectacular house full of character and style – if travelling with children, please be mindful of the many stairs (some partly open-sided) and mezzanine levels/hallways, some reached via ladders or steep/spiral steps.
- Indeed, all guests will need to be able to manage steps across the house and its beautiful grounds. There is no wheelchair access.
- There is space for up to four additional guests using the mezzanine levels (via ladders) in three of the bedrooms but this is on request only and subject to an extra charge - please enquire.
- At the end of the swimming pool, there is an impressive new events space which is not shown in the photographs, available for weddings and parties (on request, subject to an additional cost).
Property Features
Main House Interiors
Main Floor (with steps)
- Large entrance hall (70m2) with mezzanine level, billiard table and doors leading to garden
- Reception room (40m2) with vaulted ceiling, fireplace and 4m long electrical water fountain
- Contemporary kitchen (48m2) with vaulted ceiling, well-equipped including Smeg oven, two fridges, freezer, two dishwashers and large doors leading to garden
- Pantry-style room (10m2) with microwave, blender and fondue set
- Morning tea room (8m2, walk-through room) with armchairs
- Cocktail room (25m2) with stairs to upper floor and doors leading to garden
- Dining room (25m2) with vaulted ceiling, table for up to 18 guests and access to wine cellar
- Children’s dining room (20m2) with vaulted ceiling, round table (6-8 guests) and door to garden
- Wine cellar
- WC (near entrance hall)
- Laundry room and drying closet
- Library (40m2) with ancient books, fireplace, bridge table and games
- WC (near library)
- TV lounge (24m2) with 50” Smart TV, surround sound, DVD/CD player and iPhone dock
- Suite 1. Bedroom (16m2) with double bed (180x200cm), dressing area and door to garden. Bedroom (10m2) with twin beds (80x200cm each). Lounge (18m2) with sofa-bed (150x200cm), TV, kitchenette and bathroom with two showers, two sinks and WC
- Suite 2. Bedroom (25m2) with ‘floating’ double bed (210x210cm) and dressing area. Adjoining bedroom (10m2) with single bed and bathroom with two showers, large sink and separate WC
Upper Floor
- Large living room (85m2) with grand fireplace, window overlooking reception room below and mezzanine level (via spiral staircase) with library and ancient books
- Children’s play room (30m2) with safety gate (and steps below)
- Bedroom (28m2) with double bed (160x200cm) made up with twin covers (100x200cm each), TV, DVD player and mezzanine level (11m2) via ladder with two mattresses. Doors lead to garden (via stairs). Dressing area and bathroom with shower and double sink
- Bedroom (24m2) with double bed (160x200cm) made up with twin covers (100x200cm each), TV and mezzanine level (9m2) via ladder with two mattresses. Bathroom with shower and sink
- Bedroom (25m2) with double bed (160x200cm) made up with twin covers (100x200cm each), TV, large dressing area and open-plan bathroom (within bedroom) with bath/shower and double sink
- Bedroom (18m2) with double bed (160x200cm) made up with twin covers (100x200cm each), TV and modern bathroom with shower and an old vase as a sink
- Master bedroom (45m2) with Italian double bed (170x200cm), large dressing area, TV and DVD player, office equipment, safe, and mezzanine level (18m2) above bathroom with beds (on request). Large bathroom with bath tub for 2 and large shower
Up to four additional guests can stay on the mattresses on the mezzanine levels (via ladders), on request only and subject to an extra cost – please enquire.
Annexe/Cottage (ideal for staff, nanny, chauffeur etc)
- Bedroom (15m2) with double bed (140x200cm) made up with twin covers (100x200cm each), TV/DVD player and small bathroom with built-in shower and stone sink
Outside Grounds (40,000m2, fenced)
- Swimming pool (7mx25m, max depth: 1.55m) with perimeter alarm
- Poolside terrace with eight sun loungers (100x210cm each), four large parasols, eight single sun beds and four ‘fatboy’ sunbeds. Large sail with small tables and chairs
- 6-person jacuzzi (35-40 degrees)
- Pool house (6m2) with small kitchen (two fridges, dishwasher)
- Fitness room (25m) overlooking pool with equipped gym, TV and rock-climbing wall for children. Bathroom with two showers, WC, sink and glass sauna
- Summer kitchen (45m2), partly open with three walls, overlooking swimming pool and boules court, with lounge, TV, wooden table (18 guests), fireplace, kitchen (Smeg top, dishwasher, fridge), gas barbecue and pizza/bread oven
- Tennis court (béton poreux) lighting and elevated spectator area with two pergola shades
- Boules court
- 3m trampoline
- Golf house (storage/laundry space for staff use only)
- Garden lawns (5000m2), small wood and paths (all fenced with lighting)
- Water fountains
- Fruit trees
- Covered parking (8 cars)
- Further outdoor parking (up to 20 cars)
- Reception hall (for events) overlooking swimming pool
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Air-conditioning (upper floor bedrooms and Maisonette, some are portable units)
- Heated floors (certain parts of the house)
- TVs (some bedrooms and Smart TV in lounge)
- CD/DVD player and DVDs for all ages
- iPhone dock
- Library (including ancient books)
- Games (cards, chess, backgammon etc)
- Billiard table
- Gym
- Rock-climbing wall
- Playroom with toys for children
- Glass sauna
- Motion alarm
- Bikes (x4) and quads (x2) – not available for events
- Washing machine (x2) and dryer (x2)
Location
About the surrounding area of Villa JolivetVilla Jolivet is located in the Gard department of southern France, just 7km north-east of Alès, the gateway to the Cévennes National Park. If not driving, fly into Nîmes Airport (60km), Avignon Airport (83km) or arrive via train into Alès (half an hour by train from Nîmes which has TGV arrivals from Paris).
The nearest village is 1.5km away (you could walk down the country lanes in around 30 minutes) where there is a pharmacy, épicerie (grocery store) and a pizzeria just on the edge of the village set within an attractive park. There is a large supermarket just a little further, before reaching Alès (7km), the second largest town in the Gard department.
The old Roman city of Nîmes (50km) is only 40 minutes by car. Often referrred to as the French Rome, Nimes is as a must see for those with an interest in history. Countless incredibly well preserved relics remain from the Roman Empire, including the Roman temple of Maison Carrée and of course the best preserved Roman amphitheatre in France dating back to the 1st or 2nd century AD. Pont du Gard (50km) is another highlight of the region, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Around 30 minutes away by car, at the source of the Eure, lies the medieval commune of Uzès (36km). The 11th century Tour Fenestrelle is a 42 metre high Romanesque tower that is the definitive landmark, and a must see on a trip to Uzès. The Saturday night market is also famous across the region, selling locally produced food, clothing and plenty of touristy delights.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Nîmes Alès Camargue Cévennes Airport
(60km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Avignon Airport
(83km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Alès
(7km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Small Gard village
(1.5km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
Alès
(7km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Pizza restaurant just outside village
(1.6km) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
Small grocery store in village
(1.5km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Intermarché Contact
(4km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
La Grande Motte
(92km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf Club d'Uzes
(40km) |
||
| Nearest City |
Nimes
(50km) |
||
Region
Languedoc-Roussillon is one of those areas of France where you can feel like you’re totally cut off from the rest of the country. Commercial tourism has been very slow to capitalise on the region, meaning you can still enjoy a slice of authentic French rural life at its finest. A mixture of landscapes also makes it a great place to visit, with a good stretch of coastline offering a totally different experience to more bucolic interiors. Whatever you’re looking for, our range of villas and chateaux in Languedoc means you can get exactly the kind of holiday you want with accommodation that’s perfectly tailored to you, your friends and your family.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesFamilies will be enchanted by this historic residence and its vast grounds. Youngsters will love the playroom upstairs whilst older children will adore the TV lounge for movies alongside the trampoline, boules and tennis court outside, not to mention the swimming pool! There is even a rock-climbing wall in the fitness room.
There are plenty of family activities across this part of southern France. One especially wonderful day out is a trip on the steam train that departs from Anduze (20km) to Saint-Jean-du-Gard, passing incredible landscapes of the region.
A visit to Le Pont du Gard is another must whether you wish to canoe or kayak along the Gard River, paddle on its shores or enjoy a picnic whilst admiring this incredible piece of Roman engineering. History lovers will be keen to also discover the beautifully preserved Roman sites of Nimes.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Mattress protector
Kids Activities Close-by
- <1hr to Airport
- Cycling
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Trampoline
- Boules/Petanque
- Board games
- Child-Safe Pool
- Tennis Court
- Bicycles Provided
- Games Room
- Indoor Games
- Outdoor Games
- Pool/Snooker
- Home Cinema
- DVD
- Fenced Grounds
Services Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Included
- Babysitting Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Included
- Babysitting Available
- On-Site Concierge
- Butler Available
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- Bike hire
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Welcome Hamper
- Extra cleaning
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner can be arranged
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- Taxi /Car rental
Extras included at this property:
- Daily Maid Service: 3 hours a day (bedrooms/bathrooms)
- Local on-site property manager
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
This superbly restored ancient Provencal farmhouse just oozes luxury and rustic charm, the perfect c...
Read moreEvent information
This superbly restored ancient Provencal farmhouse just oozes luxury and rustic charm, the perfect combination for a romantic and glamorous wedding. There’s plenty of room on the sweeping lawns for a large marquee or in the new reception room and lots of lovely spots for photo opportunities, such as the olive tree flourishing by the elegant stone steps in the front hallway or the pretty patios in the glorious gardens. This is also such an amazing place to stay with its large pool, sauna and jacuzzi – there’s also tennis court, floodlit boules and mountain bike hire for when you have recovered from the celebrations and all night dancing!
Indoor Capacity - 0
Outdoor Capacity - 200
Wedding Ceremony
A ceremony could take place in the villa grounds, in the new reception/events space or there is a chapel nearby which you might be able to use.
Wedding Reception
A reception for up to 200 people can be hosted in a marquee in the villa grounds and dancing can continue in the marquee or by the swimming pool.
In 2023 a new reception room has been built which is 250m2 with electricity and lighting, the ideal space for a celebration, wedding feast or poolside brunch. There is space and access for caterers.
Additional Fees for Events
There is an additional Events fee and other additional costs involved. Even though rental is weekly, weddings and events are usually only for 6 days (to allow for all the additional cleaning) from Wednesday to Tuesday or Saturday to Friday - please enquire for details. Cleaning charges for events also apply. The hire of toilets/sanitary facilities is mandatory.
Wedding Planning
The owners can recommend an event planner or clients may arrange their own. The venue does not carry out wedding planning itself.
Catering
A Catering Planner could assist with this or clients may arrange their own caterer.
Where To Stay
Up to 19 people are able to sleep in the villa. There is the possibility to add four extra people using the mezzanines (via ladders) in the bedrooms, subject to an additional charge - please enquire.
Nearby, there are many hotels, gites and B&Bs where other guests can be accommodated.
Venue Accessibility
There is limited accessibility via public transportation, guests may need rideshares or taxis. There is complimentary parking on-site. There is limited wheelchair accessibility, please enquire for details.
Venue Back-Up
Tents can be set up outdoors in case of rain.
Wedding Suppliers
The venue has a range of suppliers for clients to use, but clients are also able to bring their own suppliers.
Flexibility on Duration
Events can take place between May and September. There is a 1 week minimum stay (see note above re. 6-night stays) - please enquire for further details.
Children
Children are welcome (no event childcare services are available).
Noise Restrictions
Noise should be minimized after a certain hour to respect neighbors. The music should be turned off by 2.00 a.m.
Other Information
The above video was filmed before the creation of the new reception space.
The reception spaces come unfurnished so you will need to hire this (you are not allowed to use the villa's furnishings for a wedding or event). All events take place outside the villa (or in the specific reception space).
There are no restrictions on decoration and themes - bring your creative ideas!
There is limited security measures in place (as always, guests are responsible for their belongings).
Please note that any event rental may be subject to additional charges, venue hire fees and to a higher security deposit, which will be in addition to any published rental rates and fees.
All events are on request only and subject to prior agreement from the owner, who reserves the right to refuse all events without their prior authorisation.
| Security deposit | 25% of rental charged to client’s credit card by the owner and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | 25% of rental charged to client’s credit card by the owner and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. Changed weekly unless agreed otherwise. |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Changeover day | Saturday during high season. Wednesday during low season. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| Pool opening dates? | Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax is included. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings and special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. |
| Other Ts and Cs | A 10% discount is available to returning clients. Please note that the booking must be confirmed at least one week after departure. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Villa Jolivet sleeps up to 19 guests across 10 bedrooms including two suites (with two bedrooms) and a separate cottage/annexe (ideal for accompanying staff). Please check the "Features" tab carefully. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Air-conditioning is featured in the upper floor bedrooms and in the cottage/annexe only. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 19 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Nov 18th 2024 - Jun 14th 2025 | £14,285 |
| Jun 14th 2025 - Jul 12th 2025 | £16,882 |
| Jul 12th 2025 - Aug 23rd 2025 | £19,479 |
| Aug 23rd 2025 - Sep 24th 2025 | £16,882 |
| Sep 24th 2025 - May 22nd 2026 | £12,986 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The challenge of renovating a massive ruin!
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
Yes!...
Owner Profile
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The challenge of renovating a massive ruin!
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
Yes! It is 600 years old. We have books and albums of the work that has been done!
Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
Yes, lots!
For anyone coming to stay is there anything in the surrounding area they should...
Really do? Go to Uzes
Really see? Pont du Gard
Lastly, what insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?We have a folder in the house with lots of local information.
Reviews
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Stunning
Stunning, vast, special - even better than website photos!
-
Awesome!
The house was awesome - was every bit as wonderful as the pictures looked. Had everything we could want (and more!) and the concierge was helpful and quick to respond. We were 17 so it was a little tight to seat us all together around the table in the summer kitchen and the dining room, but it was manageable. Overall, the house really was just "wow"!
-
Mr G Wright
I couldn’t recommend this property more highly - having rented various houses in Provence over the last 10 years Villa Jolivet stands out on its own. The house is decorated very tastefully and in keeping with the period but still managed to have all mod cons.
The outside area is also completed to a very high standard with a fabulous pool , hot tub , sauna , tennis court , floodlight Boules and fantastic outdoor kitchen . The only problem I had was trying to keep 3 teenage boys off the quad bikes !!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
