Reviews
My best friend and I spent a week in Provence, and it was absolutely unforgettable. We had the privilege of staying at this stunning home, which provided the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm hospitality from our wonderful host, Desley, who made sure we experienced the very best of the region.
The house itself was serene and inviting, with a lovely pool where we enjoyed a glass of rosé under the sun. But the real highlight of our trip was the incredible array of experiences Desley introduced us to. We explored charming local markets, cozy cafés, and picturesque lavender and sunflower fields that felt straight out of a dream. The natural beauty of Provence is simply unparalleled, and we felt so lucky to have had the chance to see it all, while still being able to unwind and enjoy each other’s company.
If you and a friend are looking for a peaceful escape in the heart of the French countryside, I cannot recommend this home highly enough. It was the perfect retreat, combining both adventure and relaxation. A truly magical experience that I will cherish forever!
- Arki & Sammy
Nestled in a small village at the base of Gordes is a French treasure. The doors open from the square to a beautiful booklined entrance with a view straight out to the enclosed courtyard beyond with a large pool and old mulberry tree offering shade for the table setting below.
Inside is a wonderful collection of antiques, a salon bursting with collectables, and an upstairs area with 2 well-appointed bedrooms.
Desley and Jean Francois are the perfect hosts who have introduced me to such fun and interesting people from all over the world … Friday afternoon drinks in the village square have become a highlight on my now yearly “fix” to the Luberon mixing with lots of other English-speaking people. I have even ended up at someone else’s house for drinks…everyone seems like they are there to have a good time and it is always just so much fun. Their home always seems to be full of friends … lots of dinner parties, conversation and always laughter! No wonder I love it so much!
- Judy from Auckland New Zealand
Des and JF—wow…the highlight of our travels! You showed us places we never would have found on our own and gave us an unforgettable taste of true French country life. Your wit, and sense of fun were absolutely infectious.
Your home was the most interesting retreat—full of style, collections and stories! We loved to be able to buy delicious produce from the market (like those roast chickens, yum!), bring it home to your courtyard for lunch. Out of all the places we visited, our time with you in Provence was the most memorable. And being a collector of beautiful things, I just LOVED the antique shopping - JF has a sharp and stylish eye and he knew all the best places to go.
Anyone thinking of visiting Provence who wants a real ‘at home’ experience and some fun…go! We’ll be back for more!
PS Oh, and we loved meeting your fun friends too!
- Shane from Sydney, Australia
We spent such memorable moments in dappled light under your shady tree in Jean Francois’ dreamy courtyard garden. I just wanted to stay forever.
It was such a pleasure to buy fresh produce at the market and to be able to come home and put it together with Des in the kitchen...it was fun to pretend we were living there…even though it was just for a few short days.
My head is full of so many highlights of the region but one particularly stands out for me…the lavender scent in the air and seeing the monks tending the lavender in front of the Abbaye de Senanque. It was just like the picture books.
I dream of returning one day to be able to take in even more of what makes this part of the world so very special. Thanks for the laughs and the memorable time we spent with you in your unforgettable home.
- Robyn from Melbourne, Australia
We have stayed with Des and Jean Francois a number of times in their home that bursts at the seams with carefully collected objects all giving this amazing home its unique character.
Because driving in Europe on narrow roads is not something we feel comfortable with we have asked Des to drive us around to all of our favourite villages - Menerbes, Gordes, Goult, Lourmarin, St Remy. It means we’ve been able to relax and not get stressed about driving.
Staying with them meant we even got to meet a number of their friends too…they seem to know people from all over the world so that was a treat..it seems all good, easy-going people who make the most of life. It was not like we were just tourists.
The number of times we’ve been to Provence reflects our love of the area and the fun we’ve had staying with Jean Francois and Des. We’ll be back!
- Jill from Gold Coast, Australia
Thank you Des for your energy, passion and your expertise in making our Provence experience amazing! To be the ultimate bridge between us and everything Provence is a real gift. I loved the way you tuned in to what was important to us and then massaged our time to gain a local’s view of this incredible part of the world.
We experienced things we didn’t even know existed because of you!
If anyone is thinking of making their Provence experience even better, they should take advantage of Des and Jean Francois’ incredible hospitality!
- Michael from Sydney, Australia