Villa Menerbes
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Overview
This is a unique opportunity to stay in an incredible historic house with a swimming pool in the village of Ménerbes, officially classified as one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’.
On the edge of this perched village, next to a 12th century church, Villa Menerbes enjoys a truly privileged setting. Gaze at the village church and Luberon landscapes from your swimming pool terrace and admire the views of the belltower from the floor-to-ceiling windows of one of the five bedrooms.
This house has been in the same family over four generations across the last 50 years. It was originally a house in ruins but it has been slowly restored under the careful watch of a specialist architect, considering Ménerbes’ historic significance. The result is quite special – Villa Menerbes showcases many original features alongside touches of modern design and artistic décor.
The traditional terraces outside are wonderful for relaxing with coffee and a good book or dining al-fresco on warm summer evenings on the south-facing terrace. Rustic steps lead through the olive trees to stone terraces for soaking up the sun with glorious Luberon vistas whilst the swimming pool is absolutely gorgeous – the scenery here is breathtaking.
It's just a 5-minute stroll to the other side of Ménerbes for its steep narrow lanes of restaurants, little shops and Thursday morning market. Soak up the village’s historic beauty and charm, the place that inspired Peter Mayle’s ‘A Year in Provence’. Gaze out towards vineyards, orchards and forest – try some of the region’s AOC Luberon wine in nearby wineries.
Other gems of the Luberon are within easy reach from Gordes and Goult to Rousillon and Bonnieux. Discover the landscapes by walking, cycling, hiking and horse-riding or just make the most of lovely markets and high-end restaurants as you drive from village to village.
Then there’s the Sunday morning brocante in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, canoeing and kayaking near Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, the summer melons of Cavaillon, the art galleries of St Rémy and the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage sites of Avignon, less than an hour away by car.
What you should know…
- Villa Menerbes sleeps 7 guests across four main bedrooms plus an additional four children in a fifth bedroom best suited to children.
- As to be expected in such a historic village house, the grounds feature different levels, old stone steps and some low walls. Please supervise any children carefully.
- There is private parking for one car and usually free public parking in front of the church. Do note that traffic circulation is limited in the upper village.
Property Features
Maison Interiors (250m2)
Main Floor
- Entrance
- Living area with doors opening out to south-facing terrace
- Open-plan kitchen-diner
- Bedroom with large single bed (120x190cm)
- Shower room and WC
First Floor
- Bedroom with queen-size double bed (160x200cm) and en suite bathroom with WC
- Bedroom with queen-size double bed (160x200cm) and en suite shower room with WC
- Bedroom with two single beds (90x190cm each), floor to ceiling window overlooking pool and church, and en suite shower room with WC
- Children’s dorm-style bedroom sleeping four with en suite shower room
- Separate WC
Outside Grounds (400m2)
- Private swimming pool (4m x 8m) overlooking church
- Poolside terrace with deckchairs, stone table and bench
- South-facing terrace (30m2) with Luberon views
- North-facing shaded terrace (35m2)
- Garden and grounds (different levels, low walls and old steps)
- Private parking (one car)
Location
About the surrounding area of Villa MenerbesThis village house enjoys an extraordinary location in a residential area next to a 14th century church at the eastern end of the picturesque village of Ménerbes, one of the prettiest villages in the Luberon made especially famous by Peter Mayle’s ‘A Year in Provence’.
It feels like a privilege to stay in this special setting – as you cool off in your swimming pool you have vistas right over to the church and there are gorgeous views of the belltower from the floor-to-ceiling windows of the twin bedroom. Passing visitors will be envious! There is a car parking space at the house and otherwise you should usually be able to park in front in the church in a public space (bear in mind there are traffic restrictions through the village).
You can stroll to the other side of Ménerbes in around 5 minutes with its lovely cafes, high-end restaurants, galleries and little shops including a bakery and small grocery store. The cobbled lanes are sometimes steep and you can appreciate the most stunning views of surrounding vineyards, forests and orchards as you potter around (and from some restaurant terraces). The Thursday morning market is especially delightful and a great way to stock up on local produce.
This is a fine location for exploring further afield in the Luberon. Other iconic perched villages include Oppède le Vieux (8km), Roussillon (16km), Gordes (11km) and Bonnieux (11km) whilst the market town of Apt (20km) hosts an amazing market on a Saturday morning, the largest in the Luberon. Don’t miss out on other villages slightly off the usual tourist trail such as Goult, Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt and Saignon, all within half an hour.
The Luberon is also famed for its wines and there are plenty of opportunities to sample AOC Luberon across the region’s vineyards and wine châteaux. Meanwhile, discover the glorious scenery by following hiking trails, walking paths and cycling routes or admire the landscapes on horseback.
Beyond the Luberon, suggestions for other wonderful days out include L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (19km) for antiques, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence (45km) for art galleries, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse (19km) for canoeing and kayaking as well as Avignon (42km) for wine-bars, restaurants, markets and its UNESCO World Heritage sites, Le Palais des Papes and Le Pont d’Avignon.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Avignon Airport
(31km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Marseille Airport
(75km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Gare de Cavaillon/Avignon TGV
(16km/41km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Ménerbes
(In the village ) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Ménerbes
(Within 500m) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
Bakery and small grocery store
(Within 600m) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Coustellet
(10km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
Cavaillon
(15km) |
||
| Nearest City |
Avignon
(42km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf de Saumane
(19km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis |
Oppède
(5km) |
||
Region
With some of the most enchanting landscapes of Provence, the Luberon awaits with its idyllic perched villages, swathes of lavender, cherry trees, vineyards and dense forest.
Become captivated by the scenery as you potter around artistic Gordes with its atmospheric Tuesday morning market before heading to hilltop Ménerbes, the village that inspired Peter Mayle’s ‘A Year in Provence’. Romantic Bonnieux enjoys the most glorious vistas, surrounded by a sea of vines and orchards, whilst red-hued Roussillon will take your breath away with its ochre landscapes and pine forests. They are all officially classified as ‘Plus Beaux Villages’ in France.
Yet there are so many hidden gems to explore as well. Discover the historic doorways, windmills and summer cherries of Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt, then head to Goult to embrace its Provençal charm with little shops and pavement cafes. Surrounded by fields of lavender, Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt is another historic jewel of the Luberon, often overshadowed by the handsome and historic town of Apt.
To the south of the Luberon, follow Albert Camus’ footsteps in Lourmarin, sip coffee by the picturesque bassin lined with plane trees in Cucuron and soak up the history of Ansouis – all three villages have a fine reputation for their high-end dining with a choice of Michelin starred restaurants.
Indeed, across the region look out for restaurant terraces serving Provençal cuisine with superb vistas alongside characterful markets showcasing seasonal delights from the Luberon and beyond (olives, melons, strawberries, cherries, truffles, chestnuts, lavender products and more). Most villages host a lovely weekly market whilst the largest in the Luberon is held on a Saturday morning in Apt. Just on the edge of the Luberon, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is famed for its antique stores and Sunday morning brocante. Meanwhile, wine lovers should visit the vineyards and wineries of the region producing Luberon and Ventoux AOC wines.
The walking, hiking and cycling opportunities in the Luberon seem endless and you will also find horse-riding, rock-climbing and tree-top adventures as well as canoeing and kayaking along the Sorgue near Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. Come across hiking trails for all abilities passing vineyards and forest or venture through the hills and mountain gorges for spectacular scenery. Cycling is also extremely popular – as well as more challenging routes, we especially love the family-friendly Véloroute du Calavon, a paved voie verte following a former railway line near the Calavon river passing poppies, lavender and orchards so typical of the Luberon.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesThe Luberon offers wonderful countryside for long walks, challenging hikes, horse-riding, cycling and more. There’s rock-climbing near Buoux, a family-friendly voie verte cycling trail from Beaumettes and tree-top adventures near Rustrel.
Not far from Ménerbes, come across more tree-top trails through the woodland at Passerelles des Cîmes near the characterful villages of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse and Lagnes. Discover canoeing and kayaking along the Sorgue near here and other seasonal activities including the family-friendly attractions at Nestor Le Castor, a little amusement park.
Other theme parks across this part of Provence include Parc Grimmland, Le Village Des Automates and Parc Spirou Provence, all within a 45 to 60-minute drive. Wave Island waterpark is next to Parc Spirou whilst the fascinating caves at Grottes de Thouzon are only half an hour by car.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Walk to Village
- Walk to Restaurant
- <1hr to Airport
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Child-Safe Pool
Extras
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
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
| Security deposit | €800 charged to client's credit card as a pre-authorisation at least 2 weeks prior to arrival 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 | €800 charged to client's credit card as a pre-authorisation at least 2 weeks prior to arrival 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. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. |
| Changeover day | Saturday - all other changeover days on request. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes, standard changeover clean and mid-stay cleaning are included. 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. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights - all other durations on request. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax is included. |
| 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. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Cot and high chair available on request. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 7 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Aug 16th 2024 - Aug 31st 2024 | £3,624 |
| Aug 31st 2024 - Sep 28th 2024 | £2,523 |
| Sep 28th 2024 - Nov 9th 2024 | £2,110 |
| Nov 9th 2024 - Dec 22nd 2024 | £1,743 |
| Dec 22nd 2024 - Jan 4th 2025 | £3,624 |
| Jan 4th 2025 - Mar 15th 2025 | £1,743 |
| Mar 15th 2025 - May 24th 2025 | £2,110 |
| May 24th 2025 - Jul 5th 2025 | £2,523 |
| Jul 5th 2025 - Aug 30th 2025 | £3,844 |
| Aug 30th 2025 - Sep 27th 2025 | £2,523 |
| Sep 27th 2025 - Nov 8th 2025 | £2,110 |
| Nov 8th 2025 - Dec 20th 2025 | £1,743 |
| Dec 20th 2025 - Feb 17th 2026 | £3,624 |
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.
Reviews
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A Wonderful Stay
We had a wonderful stay at the villa! The house is located in an exceptional spot in the village. Garden and swimming pool are well maintained. The house is intelligently laid out, tastefully decorated and very well equipped, especially the kitchen. We visited many villages in the Luberon / Alpilles region. For golfers, we played on 5 different golf courses: Servanes (Mouriès), Manville, Saumane, Pont-Royal and Luberon (Manosque). In our opinion, the 2 most beautiful are Servanes and Luberon.
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Everything was perfect
Everything was perfect. We really fell in love with the house, its location, its architecture, its history.
We loved everything. We didn't know the village of Ménerbes and fell under its spell.
When we arrived, Martine was waiting for us with a big smile to show us around with her little southern accent.
The house was clean and tidy. Everything worked perfectly. As agreed, Martine and her colleague came to clean during the week.
I also met the gentleman for pool maintenance.
In short, we would like to thank you for your professionalism and kindness.
We spent two dream weeks and left with happy hearts.
We are actually thinking about going back next year. -
I loved everything!
I loved everything! Nothing to complain about. Especially the caretaker, who cared for us, was wonderful. The house and the surroundings were great. Happy to come back!
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Perfect
The rental was perfect. We loved the location and the house, and the views were beautiful! Will definitely rent through you if we go back to the area.
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We loved the house!
We loved the house! We didn't feel like we were in a rental property but rather in a house that was inhabited year round. The condition of the house, its decoration and its equipment, all very pleasantly surprised us. In addition, the caretaker is attentive and responds almost immediately to messages. This house is from all points of view an asset that we recommend that you keep in your portfolio. Thank you again for your assistance!
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We definitely will come back some day
All I can say is that Villa Menerbes was the right choice for us! We all enjoyed our stay tremendously in this absolutely charming house. We loved the fantastic view over the valley and swimming in the pool directly in front of the Romanesque church. It was just a pity though that we only could stay for 6 days. We definitely will come back some day. Thank you once again for your kind assistance!
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What a fantastic house!
What a fantastic house! Beautiful garden and pool... We could easily walk into the village with restaurants and shops, it was sooo relaxed! A real holiday... The house has spectacular views from the terrace in front of the living and kitchen, spacious rooms, very clean!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
