Lacoste
Medieval village in Provence, previous home to the Marquis de Sade
Lacoste perches on top a hill in the heart of the Luberon region and is a stunning medival village. The views from the top over the Luberon are quite wonderful.
The village walls date back to the 12th century and the ruined castle at the top dates from the 16th-18th century. This château is most famous for being the home of the infamous Marquis de Sade. It's now owned by millionaire fashion designer Pierre Cardin who has launched a stylish opera festival at the castle which is held in July.
No cars are allowed in the village, but there is free parking below the village and some parking at the castle at the top of the village. Note it is a steep walk from bottom to top.
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History & Culture in [locality]
Lacoste has been a site for human populations for many centuries thanks to its agricultural land, plentiful water supply and wonderfully sunny aspect that is also protected from the Mistral wind.
It had its fair share of plagues, wars and general thievery in the Middle Ages, but emerged in the 16th century as a relatively peaceful place where its inhabitants could prosper. Its famous castle was built at this time. It actually dates back to the 11th century but became famous when the property was bequeathed to the de Sade family in 1716.
During the following years, the castle was restored and gentrified. Donatien Alphonse Francois, better known as the Marquis de Sade (aristocrat, writer and revolutionary politician, infamous for his hedonistic lifestyle, scandals and imprisonment), inherited the castle in 1763 and lived there on and off until 1778. He was renowned for hosting debauched parties at the castle; he also created a 120 seater theatre and undertook many extensions and improvements.
The castle suffered during the French Revolution, when it was vandalised and its stones were used to build houses in the village. It wasn't until the 20th century that it began to undergo restoration under the guidance of Andre Bouer.
After his death in 1994, Pierre Cardin bought the estate in 2001 and continued the renovations. The castle is still largely a ruin, but it's possible to visit small areas of what's left. It hosts art exhibitions during the year, and an arts festival in July.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
Apart from the castle, there are a number of other historical sites worth going to see.
The church Sainte Trophime is situated just outside the medieval town walls, and the town's ancient gateways with their arched Romanesque features provide suitable architectural interest. You will also find a square tower with a pretty belfry.
Wandering around Lacoste feels a bit like a step back in history, it retains its authenticity because the medieval buildings have not been restored to within an inch of their lives. The lack of Disneyfication is reflected in the lack of shops and services in the village.
There are a couple of artisan workshops (painters, ironworkers, stone mason, jewellery) - pop to the tourist office in the church square to find out more.
There are two cafés, one by the tourist office and other is outside the village, which has fabulous views over towards Bonnieux and had a cameo role in the Russel Crowe film, A Good Year. It also offers B&B accommodation.
The Savannah College of Art and Design has an outpost in Lacoste, it offers a range of art and design courses in English.
Sights in Provence
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Musée Calvet Fine Art and Archeology
The Calvet Museum today houses works of art from the 16th to 20th century, and holds innumerable collections donated or bequeathed by patrons, art lovers and collectors, such as Baron de Montfaucon, Esprit Requien, Noël Biret, the Montlaur family, and recently Marcel Puech.
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Train des Merveilles
Merveilles means “marvels” and it’s hard to know whether they named the area for the stunning scenery, the beautiful old medieval villages or the archaeological findings going back 5000 years. The railway carriages are painted with designs inspired by the prehistoric rock carvings that have been discovered in the region.
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Musee des Alpilles, Saint Remy de Provence
Created in 1919, this museum is located inside a former townhouse, the Hôtel Mistral de Montdragon, which dates from the Renaissance period and is classified as an historical landmark.
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Parfumerie Fragonard, Grasse
This historic perfume factory is in the heart of the Old Town and is one of the oldest in Grasse, constructed in 1782.
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Le Musee du Tire-Bouchon, Menerbes
A private collection of ornate, unusual and ancient corkscrews in the vineyards of the Domaine de La Citadelle.
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Site Memorial des Milles
At the beginning of World War II, France interned all Austrian and German nationals who were living in France at the time, and Les Milles was the prison for the south eastern region.
Dining in [locality]
Restaurants in Provence
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Mickael Feval Restaurant
This elegant restaurant is a must-visit for any lovers of modern cuisine and cooking methods. They embrace local produce and evolve their dishes according to the seasons.
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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.
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La Vache a Carreaux Restaurant
This small restaurant is on the Rue Peyrollerie, a winding alley just off the Place St Pierre. It is a great option for vegetarians, offering a wide variety of cheese dishes and salads but there are also fish dishes available.
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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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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.
Events in [locality]
Lacoste hosts a weekly market on Tuesday mornings.
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]
Just to the south of Lacoste is the Forêt des Cèdres, a wonderful natural park filled with Atlas Cedar trees. There are natural trails and discovery trails for both walkers and cyclists.
Other hiking trails include the Grand Randonee GR97 which is the tour of the Luberon, and the Luberon Cycling path passes through Lacoste (it runs from Cavaillon to Forcalquier).
Things To Do in Provence
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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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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.
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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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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.
Cycling in [locality]
Cycling Routes in Provence
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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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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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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.
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The Perched Villages of Vaucluse
This fun 20km circuits takes in three short climbs on a scenic route that takes in some of the famous “Perched Villages” of Provence.
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Mont Ventoux to L'Isle Sur la Sorgue
This scenic cycle ride goes in a figure of eight, starting and finishing in Velleron, but also visiting Pernes-les-Fontaines to the north and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to the south.
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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.
Hiking in [locality]
Walking Routes in Provence
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The Cedar Forest of the Petit Luberon Walk
This easy and gentle 3km walk is perfect for families as most of the route is shaded by large billowing trees with ideal spots for picnics, wondeful views and interesting forestry along the way.
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Roussillon Walk
Roussillon is a wonderful little village located about 10km outside of Apt. This gorgeous walk that explores the Ochre cliffs of Rousillon is relatively easy and will be enjoyable for everyone. Not to be confused with the Ochre Trail, which which has a visitor fee for entry into the park.
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Cabrieres tour
Take your time, explore and discover the rich historical heritage and natural surroundings, fashioned by centuries of work which continues to the present day.
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Falaise de Lioux Hike
This lovely hike in the Luberon region of Provence is great for most abilities of walkers. Stunning views and landscape on every part of the trail will make the 2hr 30 minute walk well worth it. Walking along the top of the large rocky cliff you can see for miles and enjoy the cool breeze.
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Gorges de Regalon Hike
A slightly more challenging hike through the most spectactular gorge in Provence, with its narrow high walls and dark alleyway you can witness the amazing vegetation and plants. A 3 hour and 30 minute walk you can enjoy this popular walking route, recommended during the week when it is likely to be quieter.
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La Fontaine de Saint-Gens
Explore the valleys of Le Beaucet situated between the Mountains of Vaucluse and the Luberon Valley.
Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
Watersports in [locality]
Watersports in Provence
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Lac de Saint Cassien Watersports, Fayence
A lovely natural lake surrounded by the wooded landscape of the Var. The lake is perfect for a pedaloe trip rather than an adrenaline filled water sport, but it means it is perfect for families!
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Kayak Vert, Fontaine de Vaucluse
This company offers an 8 kilometre canoe trip along the river near Fontaine de Vaucluse.
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Nice Rafting, Breil-sur-Roya
For those looking for an adrenalin rush, Nice Rafting is the place to go to!
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Sunforce Watersports, Ramatuelle
Sun Force is located on the famous Pampelonne beach. Its owner, Pierre Tourneq, has been running this business for over 30 years, surrounded by a fully qualified team.
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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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Caminaterra Activity Company, Vedene
This company offers all kinds of activities, from climbing and pot-holing to canyoning, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and via ferrata.
Families in [locality]
Nightlife in [locality]
Bars & Clubs in Provence
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Bokao's Nighclub
With a varied musical line-up, Bokao's combines good fun and great music.
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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.
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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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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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Ajmi Jazz Club
The Ajmi has played host to numerous talented international Jazz artists, and the Ajmi is classed as one of the top 3 jazz venues in France and is located in the heart of Avignon next to the beautiful Palais des Papes.
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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.
Where to stay in [locality]
Lacoste is a bit thin on the ground for accommodation and decent restaurants, try the area around Bonnieux for a better choice of nice B&B's and hotels.
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 Carte Postale Villa, Saint-Remy-de-Provence
Luxury holiday rental in Saint Rémy de Provence - La Carte Postale
Price: €11,493
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Domaine Des 3 Fontaines Villa, Saint-Saturnin-Les-Apt
Located about 2km from the charming village of Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt, close to all amenities, this large capacity holiday home for rent offers 10 hectares of wooded land with a panoramic view of the Luberon and a swimming pool.
Price: €8,607
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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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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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Douce France Villa, Oppede
Farmhouse in the heart of the Luberon, near Coustellet, providing peace and quiet and a breathtaking view of the countryside.
Price: €3,138
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Les Demoiselles En Eté Villa, Gordes
Very beautiful mas (stone house) to rent for the holidays in Gordes, decorated with exclusive and tasteful materials, all modern comfort.
Price: €4,123
Holidays Rentals in [locality]
Holiday Rentals in Provence
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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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Julii Villa, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
This holiday rental with swimming pool will allow you to fully enjoy all the shops and restaurants of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, the city centre is accessible on foot.
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Provence Country Club - 1 Bed Apartment, Luberon
Located in the Residence Provence Country Club in the heart of the Luberon mountain, 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 Domaine De Battarel Villa, Saint-Martin-de-Castillon
Discover this Domaine for rent for twelve people in Saint-Martin-de-Castillon in the Vaucluse, on the border with the department of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.
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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.
Hotels in [locality]
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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Le Clos de la Glycine Hotel, Roussillon
Set in one of the most beautiful villages in France, this hotel is a little Provencal paradise.
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Moulin de Lourmarin Hotel, Lourmarin
Located in one of the most beautiful villages in France, this former oil mill welcomes its guests in an enchanting setting surrounded by lime trees.
Price: €4,318
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Jules Cesar Hotel
This luxurious property has been lavishly renovated to overcome its austere background, whilst still retaining its sense of history.
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Le Clair de la Plume Hotel, Grignan
This stunning boutique hotel is situated at the base of the Grignan castle and has three different sites (The Main House, The Private House and the Mediterranean Garden) spread throughout the beautiful Provencal village.
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Domaine des Andeols Hotel, Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt
A design hotel filled with the owners striking art collection. The rooms are referred to as 'Maisons' and each is uniquely designed with modern bathrooms.
Price: €4,963
Campsites in [locality]
How to get to [locality]
Transfers for Provence
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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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Avignon City Taxis
Avignon City Taxis at your disposal 24/7 for taxi services and transfers airports and railway stations in Avignon and in the entire region.
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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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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.
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ABCD Taxi, Apt
All taxi services 24/7 within a 60 mile radius.
Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Provence
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Chalet for Sale, Val d'Isere
Rarely available Savoyard chalet in an elevated position with far reaching viewings over Val d'Isère
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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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House for Sale
Set on a 2,090 m² plot in the heart of a peaceful hamlet surrounded by nature, this character-filled stone property is a true haven of tranquillity.
Price: €750,000