Chilling-out in style…
There are many objectives for a vacation; including - to varying degrees - unwinding, exploring an area, and enjoying times with friends. In our case, after a prolonged period of intensive work our primary focus was to unwind. However, we've decided this beautiful home is ideal for all three purposes. The perfect early September weather meant spending much of our time outside on the gorgeous terrace. It is a fabulous area where you feel both secluded and on top of the world. Beautiful elevated views across the vineyards towards the surrounding hills, attractive landscaping and comfortable furniture make it an absolute delight to just chill, gaze, and soak it all in. Before arriving we were a little curious about the dipping pool, and concerned it would be too warm to be refreshing. In fact it’s a perfect temperature for cooling down and taking in the views; especially at the end of a long hot day. Inside, the house is exquisitely furnished including some great artwork, and really well-equipped. Nothing is wanting at all - and the bed is super-comfortable too! Everything you need to eat and drink well is close by. We loved the market shopping at nearby Coustellet; buying Cavaillon melons (purported to be the best!), tapenade, cheeses, olive oil, wonderful fruit & vegetables and trying a few wines. We also went to several local restaurants; including Ménerbe’s own ‘Le 5’ - a real treat! Plus of course the nearby salon du thé ‘Chez Auzet’ complete with its sweet delicacies, where over your morning coffee and treat you can partake in some people watching: both tourists and locals! Like us, you'll inevitably need to do lots of walking to try and off-set some of the indulgences! We could very easily have spent all week just in Ménerbes; chilling out on the terrace with wineglass in hand and an occasional ‘sortie’ to explore the immediate environs - preferably on foot! However, Provence is a new domain for us, so we did venture out to explore the region. And there are such interesting choices in every direction. If you’re fond of the arts, there are numerous galleries to choose from. And a visit to the extraordinary ‘son et lumière’ at the Carrières Lumières nearby St Remy de Provence is a must. This season, Picasso is featured like you have never seen him before. Followed by a fabulous lunch at a St Remy restaurant (details in the house ‘guest book’). There is a range of local musical offerings as well: one magical evening in the chapel of the nearby Abbaye de St Hilaire we enjoyed a delightful concert featuring (amongst other items) the 3rd part of Handel’s Mass. And if wine-tasting is your personal vice - then as well as numerous local Provençale vineyards supported by limitless tasting options at Ménerbes ‘Maison de la Truffe et du Vin’ just 200m away - then less than an hour’s drive away you’re amongst southern Rhone treasures such as Chateauneuf du Pape, Beaumes de Venise, Gigondas… Other places to visit include the 2000 year old Pont du Gard near Avignon, the famous Calanques at Cassis, Gordes...the visit list is almost endless! During our stay we talked about how much fun it would be to return and share this home with friends. It is perfectly set up for two or three couples, with great convivial social spaces - but also secluded spots for a quiet retreat. In fact I'm drafting this review sitting in a comfy chair by an open French door, enjoying a gentle breeze and, yes - that view! What more can we say? The only downside of being here: our stay is near its end and tomorrow we must leave!
