Sylvie Allan: Villa Rental Specialist

Sylvie: I would take them to Ansouis – a beautiful and authentic Provençal village. A leisurely stroll along the pedestrian village street past pretty local shops and cafés and on up to the impressive castle is an excellent introduction to Provençal village life. After appreciating the views from the castle, we would head to nearby Cucuron – another picturesque village famed for its central village lake (étang) and the reflections of the majestic ‘platanes’ trees in the lake.

For a great lunch with local seasonal ingredients, we would go to Le Cercle de Cucuron, an authentic bistrot serving tasty Provençal dishes at very reasonable prices and a favourite with the locals. And of course never forgetting to round off lunch with a delicious café gourmand, a coffee accompanied by a selection of all the perfect desserts – heaven!

After lunch, a drive through the idyllic countryside amongst lavender or poppy fields, depending on the time of year, to Lourmarin for a spot of shopping in the stylish boutiques selling everything from fashion to jewellery to art to Provençal linens. As the sun goes down, sip an apéritif or glass of chilled local rosé at the Café de France in Lacoste, admiring the panoramic view from their terrace across the valley to gorgeous Bonnieux.