Turn back the clock and live a simpler life at this stone villa in Provence. Just a short drive from the picturesque village of Callas, it's in a staggeringly beautiful spot, surrounded by lush gardens, fragrant herbs and mature trees. A rural area with great walks to be had nearby, it gives you and your group – be they family or friends – a chance to slow down and breathe in the fresh air.

Built from local stone, with ancient timbers and tiled floors, its most striking room has to be the main living room. Here, under the double-height ceiling, you'll find a grand fireplace, comfy modern sofas, and a large dining table – with doors out to a covered dining terrace and stairs up to a mezzanine with a desk. There's a practical kitchen with everything you'll need for cooking even the largest meals at home, along with a separate snug room with a squashy corner sofa.

The bedrooms are all overlooking the garden, with doors out to the main terrace, and they're a mix of period features and modern styling. And we're big fans of the bathrooms here – they wouldn't look out of place in a boutique hotel.

Stroll through your garden and steps lead down from the terrace to the glittering pool, where you'll find sun loungers and parasols. A perfect place for lazy afternoon swims, it's a good size for the whole group and has excellent views.

The nearby village has a local market on Tuesdays and Saturdays and there's lots to explore within a half-hour drive of your home, including local vineyards. It's around an hour and a half from Gorge Du Verdon and half an hour from the village of Seillans, voted one of the most beautiful in France.



Home truths:
*While there's central air conditioning in the main living areas, you won't find it in the bedrooms – the thick walls and shutters keep these rooms naturally cooler
*There's plenty of private parking here
*Small dogs are welcome, with prior approval from your host
*It's not entirely secluded here – you will have neighbours but it's unlikely that you'll notice them