Barjols
Traditional rural town in the heart of Provence
Barjols is a charming town in the centre of Provence Verte - green Provence - and is well known for its abundant water sources. With 43 fountains and lavoirs (communal wash basins) it shows off the richness of this liquid gold, all year round.
Located just to the south of the Verdon National Park, at the head of a valley that allows for lovely views of the Var.
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History & Culture in [locality]
With Roman heritage and an active church in the 14th century, Barjols then became known for processing leather.
In the 19th century, the village was home to 24 tanneries, 19 tan mills, three paper mills, and a card manufacturing factory. This was a time of prosperity and it lasted throughout the 20th century where Barjols became renowned for French leather.
Sadly, international competition meant that the tanneries slowly closed down and the last of them shut in 1983. The old tannery buildings have now been converted into artist's workshops.
Above all, Barjols is known for its yearly celebration of Les Tripettes, a bizarre feast that mixes the profane with the sacred. Imagine attending a church mass, which concludes by a joyous dance of everyone in attendance. Flutes and drums provide the music, no-one can resist; even the priest jumps up and down. History tells that in the 6th century an abbot, Marcel, returns from a trip to Rome, where he met the Pope. Soon afterwards he dies and is interred in his monastery near Montmeyan. Because he is well known, people flock to his grave, and miracles are said to have occurred. Marcel is elevated to sainthood and his tomb and relics continue to receive pilgrims from far away.
Then the decline of the monastery begins and in the early 14th century it's not much more than a ruin. The monks have gone; the only person left is the groundskeeper. One night Saint Marcel appears before him, asking the groundskeeper to move his body to a place "more dignified and more religious." The gardien relates his dream to the bishop of Brignolles who consults others in power. Two villages, Aups and Barjols, offer to receive the relics of Saint Marcel.
While the bishop hesitates, wanting to measure the distance between the monastery and each village to know which is closer, the people of Barjols are pushed by those of a nearby village Tavernes (from then on known as les avocats) to take matters into their own hands. The Barjolais listen to the advice and set out for the monastery. The poor guardian had forgotten to lock the door and the removal of Saint Marcel was a cinch.
On the way back to Barjols, the "thieves" meet up with women from the village (les Tripettes), who are busy cleaning the tripe of a slaughtered cow, a yearly ritual to commemorate a time when the village was besieged and famine was near, were it not for a lone cow. The women join the procession back into the village, into the church. There everyone, young and old, celebrates the arrival of Saint Marcel, as well as les Tripettes and their bounty, with utter joy by chanting and dancing.
Ever since, the occasion is celebrated each year with a solemn mass, followed by dancing and a procession through the village where at each stop the authentic flutes and drums play again, the muskets fire into the air and everyone dances and sings, 'San Marcel, San Marcel, les Tripettes, les Tripettes.'
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
Barjols is full of fountains of different styles, shapes and sizes.
It's a fun way to explore the village to discover all these fountains and the other sights and attraction. Try the tourist office for a map so you can follow a trail.
The church - Collégiale Notre Dame de l’Assomption - dates back to the 11th century with various additions from the 13th and 16th centuries.
Sights in Provence
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Museum d'Histoire Naturelle
The Muséum d'Aix was founded in 1838 by Henri Coquand, geologist ; it is one of the oldest in Provence.
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The Fortress, Mornas
This fortress dominates the town of Mornas below, rising up from the 137 metre tall cliffs.
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Chauvet Cave - Caverne du Pont d'Arc Gallery, St Marcel d'Ardeche
Finally visitors will be able to experience the cave paintings of the Grotte Chauvet in the state of the art replica that has been created by artists and builders.
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Musee des tapisseries Tapestry
The Musee des Tapisseries houses a rich collection of 17th and 18th Century tapestries, including a collection called 'Grotesques' - theatrical taspestrie made in Beauvais cir. 1689, and also 'L'histoire de Don Quichotte' of 1735 unique in the world.
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Monastere de St-Paul-de-Mausole, St Remy de Provence
After your explorations in Glanum, it's worth visiting the asylum where Vincent van Gogh spent one year after the dramatic incident in Arles. The Monastère de St-Paul-de-Mausole is just a short ride from Glanum. Since 1605 it has functioned as a psychiatric hospital, remaining so today.
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Caumont Centre d'Art
Building of this old mansion began back in 1715 when the first stone was laid. It was not fully complete until 1748, after all three stages of the building were finished.
Dining in [locality]
Restaurants in Provence
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Cote Sud Restaurant, Uchaux
The Cote Sud has a charming sophisticated interior and includes a lovely terrace where you can enjoy your food when the weather is warm enough.
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L'Epice & Love Restaurant
This is a popular place with both locals and travellers. It has a small cosy interior so if you want to dine there, best to get there earlier rather than later.
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La Chassagnette Restaurant
This organic Michelin starred restaurant is situated just 12km outside Arles on the road to Sambuc and is run by the chef Armand Arnal.
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Les Chenes Verts Restaurant, Tourtour
This Michelin starred restaurant is situated on the outskirts of Tourtour and specialise in truffle dishes.
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La Cour d'Honneur Restaurant
Located right in the centre of Avignon on a well known shopping street is La Cour d'Honneur.
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L'Autruche Restaurant
Small restaurant where you will never eat the same thing twice. Their menu is solely based on what good fresh ingredients the local market has to offer in the mornings.
Events in [locality]
The market takes place on Sunday mornings on La Place de la Rouguière, and there are stalls selling local produce, flowers, clothing and general souvenirs.
On Thursday and Saturday mornings you'll find a food market on La Place Capitaine Vincens.
There is very little other shopping to be had in Barjols.
Events in Provence
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Jazz à Saint Rémy
This modern revival of the jazz festivals of the 70s and 80s is held under the stars in St Rémy.
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European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Provence, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
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Trail des Alpes Maritimes
Two races plus a kids event starting and ending in the medieval mountain village of Sospel.
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Markets in Provence
Read our Provence markets page to find out which market to visit when in Provence. From the vibrant array of local produce to the delightful scent of freshly baked delicacies, visiting a Provencal market is an absolute must for anyone exploring the charms of Provence.
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Fête de la Chataignes - Chestnut festival, Collobrières
In Provence, the department of the Var is the place to look for chestnuts. The Var village of Collobrières regards itself as chestnut capital of the world and in late October it's time for the chestnut festival, which attracts thousands of visitors from near and far.
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Liszt en Provence festival, Uchaux
Uchaux is the venue for this series of summer concerts that celebrates the music of Liszt. Set in the fabulous grounds of Chateau Saint Esteve, the venue could not be more magical or romantic.
Things to do in [locality]
At the top of the village on the road towards Drauguigan, you'll find a footpath on the right taking you to the Vallon des Carmes. The walk follows a river featuring many waterfalls until you eventually reach a view point and the main waterfall des Carmes. There are some caves up here too as well as a number of other paths that explore the area.
Other hikes will take you through the surrounding countryside and forests - ask at the tourist office (maps available for a small fee).
There is an outdoor swimming pool open during the summer, and a couple of municipal tennis courts.
Things To Do in Provence
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Aqualand Waterpark, Sainte Maxime
This is probably the most family orientated waterpark on the Cote d'Azur. With several friendly slides, a fun pool, food and drinks, ice creams, and shopping all at hand.
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Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
With numerous slides, including the King Cobra - unique is western Europe - this is the largest waterpark on the Cote d'Azur! Inludes a rest area, show area, clockroom, fast food, grill and pizzeria, ice creams, drinks, and shop.
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Nyonsoleiado Waterpark, Nyons
Waterpark complex that contains a lagoon, 25m pool, whirlpool basin, waterslides for children and adults, cascades of water, rivers, paddling pools and much more.
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Aqualand Waterpark, St Cyr Sur Mer
Aqualand in St Cyr Sur Mer offer you 11 wicked slides in a great park environment with drinks, food, and shops for you to enjoy.
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Wave Island Waterpark, Monteux
This huge waterpark covers an area of 4.7 hectares and includes a surf simulator, waterslides and a river feature called river land.
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Domaine Le Sagittaire Waterpark, Nyons
In the depths of the Drôme countryside in the French Provence, this 5 Star Residential Campsite comes complete with an entirely heated Aquatic Complex, which is open to the public.
Cycling in [locality]
Cycling Routes in Provence
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Aix-en-Provence to Aqueduc de Roquefavour
This half-day circuit takes you away from the bustle of the city and into the countryside, passing some historical landmarks along the way.
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La Veloroute du Calavon
Following the Calavon river, this 28km long path was previously a railway track and is a great way to explore the hilltop villages around the area.
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Cycling the Ochre Region from Roussillon
This ride is bursting with colour and vibrant views; starting off in the pretty little village of Roussillon it passes through the vivid landscape of the Ochre region, an area characterised by its deep red soil and golden wheat fields.
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Le Plateau de Sault, Mont Ventoux
This delightful ride takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area; vast Sault highlands, fields of lavender and golden crops. Along the way you can admire the magnificent views of Mont Ventoux and Montagne de Lure Mountain. You’ll pass through four charming old villages; each one crammed with ancient churches, crooked alleyways, splashing fountains and quaint little squares.
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Les Gorges de la Nesque
Second only to the Gorges du Verdon, the Gorge de la Nesque is one of the most visited and cycled parts of Provence. A stunning hydro geological site with fantastic cliffs, overhanging rock and a long winding river deep in the valley.
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From Isle-Sur-La-Sorgue to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
This ride takes us along the banks of the river Sorgue, crossing picturesque bridges and cycling past tranquil orchards. You’ll visit a number of fascinating little villages and take in some wonderful scenery along the way.
Hiking in [locality]
Walking Routes in Provence
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Troglodyte Hikes & Walks
An interesting site not to be missed whilst in Provence. The wonderful views of the Villecroze caves and impressive scenery will take your breath away.
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The l'Imbut Trail, Gorges du Verdon
Regarded as one of the more difficult trails of the Verdon region, the l'Imbut trail is perfectly manageable for the competent hiker with the use of the fixed cables and ladders.
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Toutes Aures Walk
An great easy walk for the days after rain fall to avoid the mud. Passing by the Chapel Toutes Aures, nestled in an olive grove.
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GR4
A 5-7 day walk leaving near the coast and making its way up the Verdon Gorge through the heart of the Verdon natural park.
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Montagne Sainte Victoire
Regarded as a 'classic' walk and from the summit cross you are rewarded with 360 degree views of the Luberon, Mount Ventoux, the Alps and Cap Canaille.
Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
Watersports in [locality]
Watersports in Provence
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Les Guides Action and Aventure, Aiguines
A team of state qualified guides sharing their enthusiasm for great outdoor activities with you.
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Caminaterra Activity Company, Vedene
This company offers all kinds of activities, from climbing and pot-holing to canyoning, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and via ferrata.
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Bureau des Guides de Canyon, Castellane
Range of water sports and outdoor activities proposed by a professional guiding company.
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Lac de Sainte Croix, Gorges du Verdon
A really fabulous lake with excellent leisure facilities and watersports.
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Cable Wakeboarding, Le Muy
Cable park on Lake Rabinon (5 hectares) where you can water ski, knee board, and wake board.
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Le lac de Monteux, Monteux
Located in the heart of the EcoQuartier Beaulieu, Lake Monteux is an open every day of the year. Ideal for the whole family, this area offers a multitude of activities.
Families in [locality]
Nightlife in [locality]
Bars & Clubs in Provence
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Le Longchamp Bar & Brasserie, Isle sur la Sorgue
This place is a bar, restaurant and tabac all rolled into one, on the side of the river in the centre of Isle de la Sorgue.
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Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar
This small bar has a nice seating area outside next to one of Aix's many fountains and it catches the sun late into the evening.
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Mistral Nighclub
The Mistral is Aix-en-Provence's answer to those looking for a trendy night out listening to the latest DJ's.
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Le Scat Nightclub
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
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21 Chai d'Oeuvre Bar, Saint Remy de Provence
This bar is located in the centre of Saint Remy de Provence. It has a good selection of wines by the glass, as well as bottles and champagne. They even serve charcuterie and cheese plates.
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La Cave des Pas Sages
Small wine bar situated in one of the cobbled streets of Avignon that hosts regular market stalls.
Chalets in [locality]
Chalets in Provence
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Les Hautes Prairies Campsite, Lourmarin
Located right in the centre of Provence with the feet of Lubéron. A 9 acre campsite with 165 spacious pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes.
Villas in [locality]
Villas in Provence
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La Colline Villa, Gordes
Magnificent holiday home for 8 people to rent in the beautiful village of Gordes, in the heart of the Luberon.
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Le Rêve de Mimi Villa, Oppede
Villa for rent in Provence in Oppède in the heart of Luberon, for your holidays with family or friends.
Price: €1,735
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La Colline Villa
Welcome to La Colline, a stunning villa built from honey-colored local stone, nestled among Provençal vineyards with breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and the distant hilltop villages. The villa offers a peaceful setting, perfect for spending a summer day by the swimming pool, accompanied only by the gentle song of the cicadas.
Price: €3,129
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Carpe Diem Villa, Verbier
Superb 5-bedroom villa with swimming pool, ideal for 10 people, 5 minutes from the sea
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Un Été Indien Villa, Apt
The perfect holiday home in the Luberon with a heated swimming pool.
Price: €6,430
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La Bohème Villa, Bonnieux
Magnificent villa near Bonnieux, in the heart of the Luberon, with swimming pool, for a unique holiday.
Price: €5,290
Holidays Rentals in [locality]
Holiday Rentals in Provence
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La Villa Gazebo Villa, Lacoste
Beautiful striking villa on the edge of the Luberon, located in a peaceful environment, perfect for hours of both fun and relaxation.
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Lou Souleou Villa, Viens
Located in the Luberon Park between the villages of Viens and Saint Martin de Castillon is this architect-designed villa with swimming pool for 8 people to rent for a dream vacation.
Price: €3,012
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Carpe Diem Villa, Verbier
Superb 5-bedroom villa with swimming pool, ideal for 10 people, 5 minutes from the sea
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Provence Country Club - 2 Bed Apartment, Luberon
Located in the Residence Provence Country Club in the heart of the Luberon mountain range, this apartment enjoys a serene and tranquil atmosphere with close proximity to all the sites and attractions of this area of the South of France. An ideal location for nature and golf lovers.
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La Colline Villa
Welcome to La Colline, a stunning villa built from honey-colored local stone, nestled among Provençal vineyards with breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and the distant hilltop villages. The villa offers a peaceful setting, perfect for spending a summer day by the swimming pool, accompanied only by the gentle song of the cicadas.
Price: €3,129
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Le Mas des Carmes Villa, Ménerbes
This charming stone farmhouse is located in the heart of Luberon, near the must-see villages, and has been carefully restored.
Hotels in [locality]
There are a couple of budget options in Barjols, ask at the tourist office. Barjols is probably not a place that tourists would like to stay, it still has a fairly industrial feel and lacks the charm of some other Provençal towns. You might be better staying in Cotignac or the surrounding area and then take a day trip to Barjols.
Hotels in Provence
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Le Clos des Lavandes B&B
In the heart of the Luberon National Park, a beautiful and charming B&B welcomes you for a relaxing stay.
Price: €1,156
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L'Oustau de Baumaniere Hotel, Les Baux
This unique hotel has a two Michelin-starred restaurant and is located within the Les Baux region of Provence, famed for its vineyards and incredible hilltop castle.
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Villa Gallici Hotel
Under the light Cézanne once knew, the Villa Gallici Hotel is an 18th century Provençal house and a member of Relais et Châteaux portfolio.
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La Bastide de Marie B&B, Menerbes
This lovely B&B has 15 rooms and is set in 57 acres of vineyards. Each bedroom has its own charm and character, decorated in ecclectic antique furniture.
Price: €14,630
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Jardins Secrets Hotel, Nimes
Tucked away in the old district of Nimes lies 18th century former coach house, decorated with style and elegance.
Price: €3,360
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La Maison d'Aix Hotel
This hotel is a beautiful renovated house located on a quiet street, and walking distance to all the hustle and bustle of Aix.
Campsites in [locality]
How to get to [locality]
Transfers for Provence
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Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
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Private Jet and Helicopter Transfers
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Radio Aixois Taxi
49 air-conditioned vehicles at your disposal for local transport, airport and rail station transfers, and touristic excursions.
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Helicopter Leisure Flights & Transfers, Marseille
Helitec caters for all your helicopter needs from passenger transport to aerial photography, filming, transport of heavy goods, leisure flights over Provence and the South of France. A great way to see the most beautiful spots from the air.
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Les Marseillais Taxi, Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
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Helicopter Transfers and Scenic Flights
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Provence
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Villa for Sale
Contemporary villa with exceptional views - sea and countryside - near Pampelonne and L’Escalet.
Price: €18,000,000
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Villa for Sale
A newly built villa ideally located within walking distance from the town and beaches.
Price: €3,045,000
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New development for Sale, Val d'Isere
A first and second floor apartment in a brand new development in the heart of Le Fornet
Price: €4,150,000
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Hotel for Sale
Located just 100 meters from the sea, this unique property, currently operated as a charming 4-star hotel, enjoys a spectacular view of the sea and Saint-Tropez.
Price: €6,600,000
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Chalet for Sale, Val d'Isere
Exquisite and exclusive new development of ski-in, ski out chalet-style apartments
Price: €16,900,000
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Villa for Sale
Villa in the heart of the countryside - uninterrupted view of the village
Price: €995,000