Les Castellans - the self-catering wing
Les Castellans, our rental property in the Var, stands in a mature garden garden of 4000 square metres (about 1 acre). The self-catering wing has clear views to the south and west, with woods to the north and east. This idyllic holiday let in Provence is secluded but easily accessed.
Our house in the Var was built in 1965 in traditional Provencal style. It was substantially modernized by us in 1987. The self-catering wing was added in 1988 and we made sure that it was well insulated against summer heat and the cold snaps that occur in winter. There is double glazing throughout, with rugs to cover the tiled floors. The furnishings are comfortable, and there are many pictures and prints on the walls to give a really homely feel.
Self-catering accomodation
Covered terrace with door leading directly into the sitting room and open plan kitchen (25x18ft). Sliding glass doors to the sun terrace with roller shade, which overlooks the garden and view
Garden bedroom (11x10ft) with single or twin beds. Windows and doors to the two terraces.
Tiled bathroom with full sized bath and shower, WC, bidet and washhand basin.
Upstairs on a mezzanine floor, the master bedroom (18x14ft) with king-sized double bed, window overlooking the garden and opening skylight.
Amenities
Gas central heating and wood-burning stove. Satellite TV with English and local programs. DVD and VHS players. Portable radio. Fridge/freezer, gas hob, counter-top microwave cum conventional oven. Dish and clothes washers. Steam iron and board. Hair-dryer. Garden furniture sun loungers, parasols, gas barbecue. Complete cutlery for 6 and 'batterie de cuisine'. All beds have duvets. Linen and towels are provided free of charge. Baby and toddler equipment available on request. Use of tumble dryer.
Communications.
Full wi-fi access to ADSL router. Fixed line phone connection available. Mobiles work OK.
Swimming pool
Rectangular shape, with all-year transparent cover. Dimensions 9,5m by 3.5m, max depth 1m65, min depth 1m30. Wide steps lead down into the pool. Large tiled surround for sunbathing. Swimming season from early April to November.
Private garden.
The private garden is for the exclusive use of the self-catering wing. It is fenced all round with access to the swimming pool via a gate and a short paved path. The garden is mostly lawn but there are many varieties of local plants, such as irises, lavender, climbing roses and honey-suckle. The herb garden contains a wide variety of 'Herbes de Provence' to enhance your cooking!
The Village
St Antonin du Var is a small village of about 400 inhabitants. It takes just ten minutes stroll downhill through vineyards and olive groves to get there. It takes a little longer to get back!
The village shop can provide for most everyday needs and there is an excellent baker. Wine can be obtained from several producers in the commune, and you are welcome to try out their products. St Antonin is proud to be the home of several of the very best wine makers in our region.
The bar of the Lou Cigaloun Hotel is the focus of village social life, and a good meal can be had in the adjacent restaurant. There is a sub post office and a very good hairdresser. Today's foreign and local newspapers are on sale at the village shop when you go to buy your bread in the morning.
In summer there are many feasts and cultural activities in the village, with music and dancing, and of course, eating and drinking. Everybody is welcome to take part.
