Maison Celte
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Overview
In the Haut-Var region of Provence, walking distance to one of France’s most beautiful villages, Tourtour, Maison Celte is exceptional in so many ways.
From the outset, you can see how much the owners care about their home. Starting in the spacious grounds with terraces of olive trees, cypresses, oleander and rosemary alongside the most wonderful valley vistas. The poolside terrace has been magnificently designed with high-end non-slip decking, luxurious sun loungers and a gorgeous pagoda for shade. There’s a large barbecue close to the covered terrace with its L-shaped sofa and dining table for al-fresco feasts. As the evening approaches, enjoy a glass of local rosé by the boules court with views of the village glowing in the sunset. The garden and swimming pool can be atmospherically lit up for long evenings chatting on the terrace.
Inside, this Provençal abode has been beautifully appointed and welcomes up to 10 guests across the main house and charming annexe. The living and dining areas have been classically yet comfortably furnished whilst wood-beamed ceilings, tiled floors and objets d’art add character and warmth. The kitchen is both traditional and elegant with modern appliances including a Smeg oven and Nespresso machine. Early risers can sit out on the pretty kitchen patio with a morning espresso listening to birdsong.
Upstairs, there are three air-conditioned bedrooms all with glorious views. The master double has its own dressing area and shower room whilst there are two twin bedrooms and a family bathroom. A separate annexe is home to two further spacious bedrooms that interconnect, both with French windows opening out to the garden and en suite shower rooms. The annexe’s double also leads to a covered terrace overlooking yet more idyllic scenery.
The setting of this French home in Provence is perfect, close to picture-perfect villages, walking trails and vineyards whilst Lac de Sainte-Croix and the Verdon Natural Regional Park are ideal for amazing days out.
It’s around a 15 to 20-minute steep walk up to Tourtour, one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’. This old Provençal village with panoramic views is such a pretty place to explore, home to some lovely restaurants including the Michelin starred La Table de Tourtour. The main square is especially picturesque with its café terraces and olive trees. There’s a twice-weekly market as well as lots of events in the height of the summer.
Other historic villages within a short drive include Flaysoc, Salernes, Entrecasteaux and Lorgues, famed for its Tuesday morning market, one of the largest in the region. Lorgues is also loved for its wine with famous vineyards including those at Château de Berne.
You could even venture to the French Riviera for a day out by the glistening coast – choose between Saint-Tropez, Sainte-Maxime, Fréjus or even Cannes before returning to the tranquillity of your holiday home in Provence.
What you should know…
- There are three bedrooms in the main house and two interconnecting bedrooms in a separate annexe.
- Air-conditioning (for nighttime use only, if needed) is only featured in the three bedrooms in the main house. The bedrooms in the annexe tend to stay cooler and there is a fan if needed.
- Families are welcome – the owner accepts older children (school-aged+) who are able to swim proficiently without floatation devices (supervision is still needed at all times). The property is not suitable for guests with babies/toddlers.
Property Features
Main House Interiors (approx. 170m2)
Main Floor (some steps)
- Open-plan living area with doors opening out to L-shaped covered terrace with large outdoor sofa and dining area
- Open-plan dining area leading through to kitchen, well-equipped including Smeg oven, gas hobs, fridge-freezer, Nespresso machine and kettle. Doors lead to small patio with table and chairs
- Utility room with washing machine and tumble dryer (for use in wet weather only)
- Garage with second fridge-freezer
- WC (entrance hallway)
Upstairs
- Master bedroom with double bed, air-conditioning, dressing room and shower room (opposite the bedroom) with shower, sink and WC
- Bedroom with twin beds and air-conditioning
- Bedroom with twin beds and air-conditioning
- Bathroom with bath (and over-head shower) and two sinks
Annexe (approx. 70m2)
- Bedroom with twin beds, fan, en suite shower room, separate WC and doors leading outside
- Interconnecting bedroom with double bed, fan, en suite shower room with WC, doors leading outside and door leading to covered terrace with valley views
Outside Grounds
- Swimming pool (10x5m, depth: 1.5m) with security cover. Open approximately May to mid-October. Can be heated on request (supplement will apply outside July/August)
- Poolside decking, sun loungers and pagoda shade area
- Solar pool shower
- Outside lighting
- Al-fresco dining table and chairs and large charcoal barbecue
- L-shaped covered terrace with large outdoor sofa and dining area
- Boules court
- Table tennis
- Large garden/grounds (some terraced levels and steps)
- Fenced grounds (with electric boar fencing to be turned on at night)
Other Facilities
- Air-conditioning (three bedrooms in main house, for nighttime use only)
- Fans (annexe bedrooms)
- Bluetooth speaker
Location
About the surrounding area of Maison CelteIn the Haut-Var region of Provence, around an hour from the French Riviera coast, Maison Celte enjoys the most beautiful setting just outside the idyllic hilltop village of Tourtour.
Tourtour is a delightful old Provençal village which has been classified as one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’. You can walk there in around 15 to 20 minutes – it’s a steep walk up the hill so you may sometimes prefer to drive (there are several free car parks in and around the village). The village is home to a patisserie for your morning bread and cakes, a small grocery store (with fruit, vegetables, fresh bread, wine etc) as well as cafés and restaurants – book ahead if you wish you dine in the Michelin starred La Table de Tourtour. A little market takes place on a Wednesday and Saturday morning and look out for festivities and events throughout the summer (take a trip to the tourist office when you first arrive). After pottering around the enchanting lanes, stop off for a coffee on a café terrace in the main square and soak up the lovely ambience.
There are so many gorgeous villages to explore within the region. Flayosc (13km) is a picturesque medieval village surrounded by vines, olive and oak trees or head slightly further south to Lorgues (17km), so loved for its Tuesday morning market alongside its restaurants and wine (including Chez Bruno and Château de Berne). The vineyards across this part of Provence are wonderful – you can buy local wine in nearby supermarkets and be sure to visit nearby nearby vineyards en route to Villecroze and Salernes.
Indeed, Salernes (11km) in the Bresque valley is a delightful village to discover with old fountains, café terraces, huge plane trees and pottery shops. Tomettes (hexagonal terracotta tiles) have been traditionally produced in the village – learn all about the village’s ceramics heritage at Terra Rossa Maison de la Céramique.
Continue a little further towards the waterfall at Sillans-la-Cascade (17km) or head back up to Villecroze (6.5km) with its troglodyte caves. Further afield, venture to Lac de Sainte-Croix (33km) and the Verdon Natural Regional Park for walking, hiking, canoeing, kayaking and incredible natural scenery.
For a day out by the French Riviera, there is quite the choice from the glamour of Saint-Tropez (67km) to the glitz of Cannes (85km) with gems such as Sainte-Maxime, Fréjus, Saint-Raphaël and Théoule-sur-Mer inbetween.
While a car is required for staying at Maison Celte, there are rail options and nearby train links. Aix-en-Provence TGV is approximately 90 minutes away by car, making it a convenient option for those travelling from the UK or Paris via Eurostar/TGV. The closest station, Les Arcs - Draguignan, is ideal for taking short journeys to the coast or day trips to destinations such as Monaco.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Toulon Hyères Airport
(93km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Nice Côte d'Azur Airport
(102km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 3 |
Marseille Provence Airport
(121km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Les Arcs - Draguignan/Aix-en-Provence TGV
(30km/128km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Tourtour
(1km uphill) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Tourtour
(1km uphill) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
Bakery and grocery store in village
(1km uphill) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Intermarché SUPER Salernes
(11km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
Draguignan
(22km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis |
Villecroze
(6.5km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf de Salernes
(13.5km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
Fréjus Plage/Sainte-Maxime
(52km/54km) |
||
Region
The Provençal way of life is one that’s deeply tempting for anyone who’s been feeling the need to get away from it all. This is a place where the Mediterranean weather turns fields of corn and lavender into picture-perfect backdrops, where you can sip your locally bought wine and enjoy the landscapes before heading out and tackling them head-on with a range of great activities for families, groups of friends and adventurous foodies. Better yet, our range of villas in Provence and chateaux and holiday homes in the Côte d’Azur make the perfect base to explore this enchanting region!
Kids
Best Suited For: ChildrenFamilies are welcome at this beautiful home – the owners accept older children (school-aged) who can swim proficiently without floatation devices (supervision is still needed at all times and the pool cover should be used when not in use). As well as the pool, there’s table tennis and boules outside for hours of family fun with stunning views.
The most energetic can walk up to Tourtour (around 15 to 20 minutes on foot up a steep hill) and be enchanted by its historic centre. Pop in to the tourist office and check what summer festivities and events may be taking place during your stay.
Activities within a short drive include Flay'Forest (15km) for seasonal tree-top adventures (aged 5+/1.2m minimum height) as well as canoeing/kayaking and other summer riverside activities along the Argens near Vidauban (27km). Meanwhile, ZooParc Du Cannet Des Maures is just over half an hour by car.
Discover more watersports and gorgeous lakeside beaches at Lac de Sainte-Croix, around half an hour away heading north, not far from the incredible landscapes of the Verdon Natural Regional Park, a paradise for outdoor adventurists.
The beaches of the French Riviera can also be reached for a great day out. Family-friendly Sainte-Maxime is around an hour away (hop on a boat to Saint-Tropez from here) or head to the coast around Fréjus and Saint-Raphaël for more sandy shores and watersports.
Kids Activities Close-by
- Walk to Village
- Walk to Restaurant
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Boules/Petanque
- Board games
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- Outdoor Games
- Table Tennis
- Fenced Grounds
Services Available
- Maid Service Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Maid Service 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
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Extra cleaning
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 | £500 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 | 4.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | £500 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 | 4.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. Air-conditioning (in three bedrooms) should only be used at nighttime, otherwise excess charges may apply. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. At the end of your stay these should be washed, dried and left for the next guests to use. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | No. £300, payable to the owner via Oliver's Travels. This is for a standard changeover clean. 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. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax is included. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately May to mid-October. 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. |
| Pool heating charge? | Pool heating is included in July and August. Pool heating at other times will be subject to an extra charge (depending on intended use, time of year and weather conditions) - please discuss this with us at the time of booking if required. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Strictly not allowed anywhere on the property/grounds (especially due to fire risk). |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. If permitted, a dog should not exceed an approximate weight of 5kg. |
| Changeover day | Flexible. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Internet access? | Fibre broadband has been installed which usually provides high-speed internet to the lounge/dining area, main terrace and annexe. Due to the rural location and occasional thunderstorms, the service can sometimes be interrupted so cannot be guaranteed. Please make back-up arrangements (dongles/cellular data) if this is important to you. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Air-conditioning is only featured in the three bedrooms in the main house and is for nighttime use only, when needed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Families are welcome – the owner accepts older children (school-aged+) who are able to swim proficiently without floatation devices (supervision is still needed at all times and the pool cover should be used when the pool is not in use). The property is not suitable for guests with babies/toddlers. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 10 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Nov 26th 2024 - Jan 1st 2025 | £2,634 |
| Jan 1st 2025 - Jun 1st 2025 | £2,766 |
| Jun 1st 2025 - Jul 1st 2025 | £5,492 |
| Jul 1st 2025 - Sep 1st 2025 | £7,069 |
| Sep 1st 2025 - Oct 1st 2025 | £5,492 |
| Oct 1st 2025 - May 30th 2026 | £3,912 |
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.
When did you become the owner?
2006.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The stunning views of the valley and the village. The P...
Read moreOwner Profile
When did you become the owner?
2006.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The stunning views of the valley and the village. The Provencal feel of the house and the feeling of light and space with so many doors and windows opening onto the view and all the lovely outdoor terraces to relax, eat and drink on. The pool deck is large and stunning with wonderful views. Such a beautiful, tranquil, relaxing place for holidays.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
The garden was formerly an olive grove.
Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
We had an England rugby player staying there during RWC in 2023 (he left a huge steak in the fridge when he left with a note saying he hadn't had time to eat it for breakfast before he left, so we could eat it!)
For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really...
Must do?
- Lac St Croix and Gorges of Verdon are a must visit - electric boats, sailing, white water rafting etc with beautiful scenery.
- Saint-Tropez is a great day out - either get a ferry from Sainte Maxime to arrive on the water. Or Gordon has a friend who runs a speedboat company there where you can wakeboard or waterski in Saint-Tropez harbour, view the stunning superyachts up close and then be dropped off for lunch at a beach side restaurant.
- Beach clubs are a lovely day out for some beach time, swimming and lunch (Saint Maxime has several you can pre book within one hour of the house including Les Voiles - Google for latest ones)
Must eat?
- Tourtour has some lovely restaurants in the central square including La Table (Michelin Guide), Mimounia (Moroccan), Braconniers (Pizza), Pasha (foods of the world), Relais de Denis (French).
- La Petite Auberge - boutique hotel beside the village.
- Bar des Ormeaux is a great place to have a coffee and croissant or a drink.
Must see?
Visiting some local vineyards is a lovely thing to do. Chateau de Berne is only 15 minutes from the house, now a beautiful hotel and you can also have a lovely lunch or dinner there or do a cookery course.
What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
With so much to see in Provence, the temptation can be to rush around taking photos and ticking boxes. But the best times here are often just chilling on the pool deck, firing up the BBQ and having a sunset game of boules with a glass of rosé.
Reviews
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Excellent
After many many hours trawling the internet we came across Maison Celte - to say the least we are fussy and this house was as good if not better than the photos (which is not always true). Why go away and settle for anything less than you are used to at home. Beautifully kept, spotless and perfect décor. It ticked all the boxes. A car is required if you don't fancy a steep uphill walk into Tourtour. The area has the most fabulous scenery. Restaurants were not as good as we experienced last time we were in Tourtour but you don't need to go out to eat when you have such a wonderful house and facilities. Thank you to the owners for sharing your wonderful home in Tourtour.
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Spectacular views
Maison Celte is a beautiful villa with the most spectacular views from virtually every window. The house offers flexible accommodation for extended family, and the pool area makes it hard to leave to explore the surrounding villages. We loved our week here!
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Perfect place to relax
Excellent stay in this very comfortable house with magnificent 180 degree panorama. The host is very pleasant, available and responsive to our requests. Perfect place to rest and relax to the sound of cicadas.
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Perfection in Provence!
Maison Celte is a beautiful property in a stunning location. We never tired of those gorgeous views. The house, pool and garden were perfect for us (a family of 2 adults and 3 teens). The villa is very well equipped, clean, beautifully furnished and everyone had their own space. The local area has lots to offer; We spent time in Tourtour village (morning pastries and coffee in the village square was a lovely way to start the day) and also did excursions to Lac St Croix, St Tropez, Gorges du Verdon and vineyards. Days spent by the pool were similarly wonderful. The owners were helpful, friendly and hugely accommodating hosts. We were so sad to leave!
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Perfect and amazing holiday with a breath-taking view
Our stay in Maison Celte was simply perfect. The house is wonderfully furnished and well equipped. The view is mesmerising and the pool perfectly refreshing. The kids and the adults had so much fun and we enjoyed every minute. The house is located near the small but very beautiful village Tourtour which allowed us to have some nice dinners out while enjoying the solitude of the house at the same time. The host is very helpful and responsive when having any questions. All in all, we were sad that we had to leave and we are surely going back.
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A great stay!
House fully corresponds to description. Perfect to relax with many sitting areas around the house. Host is quick to answer any questions (although the guidebook provides all information needed). Views are amazing. Secluded but still close to Tourtour. Many areas to visit around. We had a great stay!
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Wholeheartedly recommend
We enjoyed our stay from the first to the last second. The house is wonderful and the location is fantastic. The view is simply breathtaking. Everything was clean and the communication with the owner was extremely friendly and accommodating. We can wholeheartedly recommend a stay to everyone and will definitely come back. We are already looking forward to it!
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Gorgeous
We had a wonderful two week stay at the house. It is in the most stunning position with heavenly views. Everything came up to our expectations. The house was clean and spacious and beautifully furnished and the pretty garden and pool were fabulous. The walk to the hilltop town of Tourtour was hot work but well worth it! We had a great holiday and would love to return.
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Belle Provence
We spent 3 very relaxing weeks in June at Maison Celte. The views from the extensive outside areas and the pool are simply fabulous. It is a lovely house for outside living with a very open plan feel. The house is spacious and very equipped, we couldn't think of anything the house lacked. On hot nights the air conditioning was very welcome. Perfect for a quiet family holiday. The hosts are very obliging.
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Memorable stay
Beautiful property situated in a picturesque Provençal town in Var. The host is conscientious and helpful and his staff were very helpful.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
