New York Habitat Blog

Amateurs of live drama and medieval history, take note that one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious theater festivals is shaping up again in Avignon. Indeed, during the traditional three weeks in July, the 64th Festival d’Avignon will offer hundreds of shows presented as part of the official selection (“in”) or the alternative scene (“off”).

Pont Saint-Bénézet

All kinds of productions will spring up within the ancient city walls of Avignon, whether in the Papal Palace’s courtyard, in actual theaters, in temporary spaces or in the middle of the streets. Even the non-Francophiles can partake in the festivities by attending presentations in English, dance performances or pantomimes, so do not let the language barrier stop you. And if you are determined to watch a show in Molière’s tongue, a generous glass of local côtes du rhône wine will help you refresh your high-school French in no time!

Another worthy cultural event is the Avignon Film Festival which, like its New York twin, takes place in June. Aimed at encouraging independent film-makers in their out-of-the-box endeavors, this truly transatlantic affair gives an ever-needed boost to new and upcoming directors by organizing screenings, retrospectives, panel discussions and debates. Far from the exclusive atmosphere of the Cannes Film Festival, you will actually be able to exchanges ideas with the artists and later brag about it.

For either event, or if you’re just planning to take it easy in Avignon, we have here several apartment rental options that will not fail to please you.

If you’re coming by yourself or with a significant other, you cannot do better than our Avignon One Bedroom Vacation Rental Apartment (PR-988). Located in a blissfully quiet street right downtown, it has many modern features such as a flat-screen TV with cable, a DVD player and DSL.  

If you’re planning to stay in Avignon as part of a group, our Hosted Four-Bedroom Avignon Bed and Breakfast (PR-325) is just what you need, and we’re not just saying that because of its incredible terrace offering a priceless view over the nearby Papal Palace and the surrounding rooftops.

The reign of Avignon as the religious, political and cultural center of Christendom lasted only 68 years, but the magnificent Papal Palace still effortlessly dominates the city, a truly stunning monument to the immense power of the papacy in the Middle Ages. A visit to the city would not be complete without an exhaustive tour of its numerous rooms, but make sure to come early to beat the crowds, an easy enough move if you’re staying in one of our rentals nearby.

Not as imposing but definitely more entrenched in popular French culture, the 13th century Saint-Bénézet Bridge in Avignon is first and foremost famous for the 16th century song “Sur le pont d’Avignon” (“On the Avignon Bridge”), but also for its huge strategic importance back in the days as the only crossing over the Rhône river between Lyon and the Mediterranean Sea and as a border post between the French territory and the Papal State. After several severe floods, only four arches remain, but it is still a favorite recreation spot.

No matter what you’re looking for, Avignon has something for you. Feel free to share your own experience of it in the comment section below.

South of France Accommodation: 4 Bedroom Rental in Mollans sur Ouveze, Avignon Region (PR-603)

Tucked away in a residential park facing majestic Mount Ventoux is a gorgeous four-bedroom vacation villa in Mollans sur Ouveze, Avignon Region (PR-603). You will experience an unforgettable stay in the middle of the rich Drôme Provencal region in the South of France, which boasts mountains, rivers, pine woods and lavender fields.

Eight people can enjoy the gracious surroundings of this spacious vacation accommodation in the South of France, with four bedrooms and three bathrooms. It’s full of things that make it like home for your stay: from the large living room with plenty of seating, colorful paintings on the walls and a fireplace, to conveniences like the DVD player, television and stereo. Off the fully equipped modern kitchen is a laundry room with a washing machine. In the living area sunshine comes streaming in through the French windows that lead to the terrace. Outside on the terrace, guests can use the barbecue and dine outdoors on the large table while taking in the gorgeous view.

The most attractive feature of this villa, however, is the resort-like outdoor setting. A private pool is set in a landscaped garden and lends a view of the mountains beyond the house. Pink flowers and vines climb the covered poolside terrace and deck chairs can be brought in or out of the shade. The scene is set for absolute relaxation and tranquility while taking in the surroundings.

South of France Accommodation: 4 Bedroom Rental in Mollans sur Ouveze, Avignon Region (PR-603)

Nearby is the Mount Ventoux, known as the “Giant of Provence,” which appears snow-capped year-round. UNESCO has classified it as a Biosphere reserve: The mountain has over four hundred different flowers and over a thousand plant varieties. Visitors prize this area for its walking and hiking paths as well nature-viewing opportunities, while cyclists and climbers also enjoy more challenging trails of this 1,909-meter slope. On the banks of the mountain are picturesque medieval villages and castles of Caromb and Barroux. This region is famous for the wines of the Côte du Ventoux vineyards, and is also not far from the Côte du Rhone wine villages.

What makes this four-bedroom vacation villa a hidden gem?
A gorgeous landscaped pool and second-floor terrace, both with a view of the majestic Mount Ventoux make this accommodation a hidden gem. Being in such close proximity to the mountain, plenty of nature activities, medieval villages and famous wineries give everyone something to enjoy here.

In late November, the South of France celebrates the region’s grape harvest with the Côtes Du Rhône festival. Renowned vineyards offer tastings where Côtes du Rhône, Côtes du Ventoux and Coteaux du Luberon wines flow freely, and restaurants present special menus highlighting the culinary specialties of Avignon. New York Habitat’s Hosted Four-Bedroom Maison de Village Bed and Breakfast in Avignon (PR-325) is an ideal accommodation in the South of France this Fall to experience the wine celebration

South of France bed and Breakfast Accommodation: Hosted 4 Bedroom in Avignon (PR-325)

This 18th century four-story townhouse has four bedrooms, each with en suite bathrooms. It is available as a Bed & Breakfast accommodation, or as a private rental, depending on the owner’s availability. The first floor living room has a sofa, armchairs and a large marble table that seats 8. An intricately tiled fireplace, tall mirror over the mantle and tasteful antique furniture complete the room. Large, paned windows in the living room give a view of the courtyard and small street. Visitors will appreciate the sparkling white walls and “clean” décor throughout.

Church in Avignon, France

The house is located in small one-way street of Avignon near the Place de l’Horloge and the town’s shops. But the best feature of the house is its privileged spot overlooking the famous Pope’s Palace, which can be seen from the terrace. Built in the 14th Century, it is the largest Gothic palace in Europe, and is open to visitors. Avignon was considered the center of Christendom when the popes chose to reside there.

Also in Avignon is the St. Benezet Bridge, built in 1177, originally crafted entirely of wood. At that time, Avignon became the only place between Lyon and the Mediterranean to cross the Rhone, so the city developed into a hub for travelers, merchants and manufacturers. Still standing are many of the mansions full of private art collections, most of which are public museums. Landscaped gardens, the Roman amphitheater and the house of Vincent Van Gogh provide more reasons for strolling around town.

Theater in Avignon, France

Wine lovers will be delighted with the wealth of wine estates around Avignon. The area is known for its Syrah and Grenache grapes which produce powerful reds, as well as the rarer Viognier grape. The wines from the best 16 villages in the region bear their own “Côtes du Rhône-Villages AOC” certification. Along with sampling wine, be sure to go by the Farmer’s Market, which is one of the best in southern France.

South of France Bed and Breakfast Accommodation: Hosted 4 Bedroom in Avignon (PR-325)

New York Habitat also offers several excellent vacation accommodations in the Rhone region of the South of France, such as:

• A 2 Bedroom House in Séguret, Avignon Region (PR-314)
• A 4 Bedroom Villa in Carpentras, Avignon Region (PR-784)

For more info on Avignon region read Top towns in the South of France: Avignon, Provence
Have you been to any of France’s wine regions, and what is your favorite?

5 Bedroom Rental Beaucaire - Avignon Region - Pool

If a sprawling country villa set amid gardens and an ambling vineyard sounds like the kind of place you’d like to unwind with family or a few friends, New York Habitat offers just the place: a five-bedroom accommodation in Beaucaire, Avignon Region (PR-745).

An authentic Mas in Beaucaire, Avignon Region
Provencal farmhouse ambiance awaits guests of this 17th century five-bedroom Mas, full of exposed wooden beams and stone walls throughout. Colorful artwork graces the walls and an antique Indian massage table makes for a unique coffee table in the center of the living room. A working fireplace and traditional blue and yellow tile brighten the eat-in kitchen. Guests can gather for meals in the kitchen, dining room or outside on the terrace looking over the vineyard—all three areas have tables for eight. Connected by a spiral staircase, the second floor’s three bedrooms with double beds and two single bedrooms provide plenty of space to accommodate eight people.

5 Bedroom Rental Beaucaire - Avignon Region - living room

Take in a view of the vineyard and the typically Provencal countryside from the two terraces: one off of the ground floor and a second-floor terrace connected to one of the bedrooms. Once outside, you’ll be surrounded with pine, olive and mulberry trees, lending shade to a private garden. At the end of the garden is a swimming pool with poolside lounge chairs and a sheltered deck. A pond with water lilies completes the outdoor oasis of this rental property.

The “Golden Triangle”
A few-minutes’ drive from the villa takes you to the center of the medieval village of Beaucaire, France, where restaurants, small shops and 16th-century mansions share the cobblestone streets. Equally close to the vacation property is a 5th- century Roman monastery carved out of rock.

Bordered by the Rhône River and the Canal du Rhône à Sète, Beaucaire is located in the “Golden Triangle,” an area defined by Arles, Nimes and Avignon, often described as the most beautiful part of Provence. The medieval port village of Beaucaire was once known for its commercial fair that attracted merchants from all over the country. Home to the Course Camarguaise, an annual Spanish-style bull run every summer, the town boasts a several sites, including ruins of a 13th century castle which served as an ancient fortress.

Driving a bit further allows for exploring the ancient amphitheater in the Provencal town of Arles (15 km) or viewing wild horses, flamingos and native black bulls in the natural reserve of Camargue, also accessible by boat ride. Just a thirty-minute drive east is St. Remy de Provence, the home town of VanGogh and one of the top towns to visit in the South of France.

5 Bedroom Rental Beaucaire - Avignon Region

If a five-bedroom vacation rental is slightly too spacious for your needs, New York Habitat also offers a three-bedroom Mas accommodation (PR-821) in Beaucaire, from which to take in the historic and naturally scenic surroundings of the Avignon region. Thirty minutes from Nimes, the area is accessible to the local airport with daily domestic flights from Paris and the TGV station (it’s a three- hour train trip from Paris). The vacation property is also 45 minutes west of the Marseilles airport.

Why is this five-bedroom rental property a hidden gem?
Lush gardens, tree-lined terraces, a vineyard and a private swimming pool are the main attractions of this authentic Mas. Five bedrooms and two floors make this vacation property is a spacious and welcoming place to enjoy the heart of Provence near a historically rich village that hasn’t yet made it onto tourists’ must-see lists.

Have you visited any of the villages in France’s Golden Triangle, and do you have any hints about places to see that are off the beaten path.

Do not go to Avignon if your plan is to visit surrounding towns and peruse the French countryside. The city of Avignon, Provence has so much to offer, you will not want to leave.

Noted for its rich history and culture, Avignon , France has played host to both the religious and the artistic. During the 14th century, the city became the home for several papal leaders. The Palace of the Popes still stands within the city today and decorates the spacious and busy square, Place du Palais.

The various museums and theaters can entertain visitors for days, while the scenery of private mansions, luxurious courtyards, and elaborate squares make staying indoors a chore.

The annual theater festival in August attracts over 120,000 spectators every year. Visitors take in shows that feature dance, theater, and music.

New York Habitat has several enticing accommodations available in Avignon:

· A One-bedroom accommodation in Avignon’s (PR-617) historic center
· A Two-bedroom duplex apartment in Avignon (PR-615)
· A Four-bedroom townhouse in Avignon, Provence (PR-325) also available as a Bed & Breakfast

Here is a recap of the top cities so far:

• #5 Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
• #4 Nice, French Riviera
• #3 Aix-en-Provence

The anticipation is at its peak. Only one more town remains. Which town do you think will be voted #1 town in the South of France. Post your guesses below.

Check in next week to see if you’re right!