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L’Olive Verte is a beautiful addition brought to us by the talented architect couple who sensitively restore old Provençal dwellings into prestigious holiday homes, allowing guests to soak up the essence of Provence whilst experiencing a high level of hotel-style services. This 18th century jewel can be found in Mouriès, a traditional village in Les Alpilles known for producing some of the finest olive oil in France.

Once a historic bastide made up of several buildings, this elegant abode now welcomes up to 12 guests across the mas and summer house facing the heated swimming pool. The owners always take great pride in respecting the cultural heritage of the region and for L’Olive Verte no exception has been made. Admire splendid artwork across the house, play music on the vintage piano and read peacefully in the dappled shade of the ancient plane tree, truly appreciating a certain art de vivre in southern France.

As you wander through your home, soak up its rich history with wood beams, restored tiled flooring, exposed stone walls and antique furnishings juxtaposing 21st features such as Sonos sound systems, a fitness room and sauna as well as air-conditioning throughout. We adore the grandeur of the living room and the original fireplace in the farmhouse-style kitchen, not to mention the charm of the little music lounge. Pretty French windows lead out to the carefully tended grounds for tranquil breakfasts, basking in the sun and relaxing games of pétanque.

All six bedrooms have been beautifully styled, most with king-size beds, luxurious linen, limestone showers and high-end toiletries, one with a chic old-fashioned bath tub. The master bedroom is on the first floor of the summer house with arched windows looking out over the pool below. Downstairs there is a billiard table and a summer kitchen for preparing long lunches, opening out to the poolside terrace with its sun loungers, cypresses and majestic palm tree alongside the aromas of summer jasmine and roses.

A continental buffet breakfast is served each morning and daily housekeeping is included. Your concierge can organise an array of other services for a supplement from massages, spa treatments and fitness coaches to cookery classes and private chefs creating Provençal feasts using the finest local produce.  

A few steps from your historic getaway is the heart of this characterful village steeped in heritage. Enjoy an apéritif beneath the plane trees of Cours Paul Revoli before dining out in a village restaurant. The Wednesday morning market is a bustling affair and look out for events throughout the year celebrating the village’s traditions. September’s La Fête des Olives Vertes marks the start of the early olive harvest with all sorts of festivities including a lively parade through the village centre.  

Beyond Mouriès, marvel at the valley views from Les Baux-de-Provence’s castle, have lunch on the village square in Maussane-les-Alpilles or follow Rick Stein’s footsteps at Le Bistrot du Paradou just 10 minutes by car. Cycle, hike or horse-ride through the idyllic landscapes of Les Alpilles passing endless olive groves, vines and hills. The marked walking trails around the ancient ruins of Oppidum des Caisses de Jean-Jean are especially inspiring.  

Saint-Rémy, Arles and Avignon are other wonderful days out or venture to the Camargue for more unforgettable experiences across the captivating landscapes of this fascinating corner of southern France.