Sale of Provençal Country Houses with Character
Discover our listings of characterful Provençal bastides for sale. Find the bastide of your dreams in the heart of Provence , combining authenticity and modern comfort.
The quintessential symbol of the Provençal art of living, the characterful bastide is a residence imbued with elegance, history, and refinement. Nestled among lavender fields, olive groves, and centuries-old cypress trees, Provençal bastides appeal to those seeking authenticity, tranquility, and natural beauty. Whether for a primary residence, a holiday home, or a heritage investment, these rare properties embody the very essence of Mediterranean charm.
What is a Provençal bastide?
Originally, a bastide referred to a manor house built of stone, generally in the 18th or 19th century, and intended to house a wealthy family in the heart of the Provençal countryside. It is distinguished by its harmonious appearance, its generous volumes and its strategic location, often facing due south, to take full advantage of the light and the views.
Architectural characteristics
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Facades made of stone or lime plaster , sometimes covered with Virginia creeper or climbing roses.
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Roofs made of canal tiles , typical of the south, with warm colors and patinated by time.
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Colorful wooden shutters , often green or pastel blue, to protect from the sun while preserving the regional style.
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Avenues lined with plane trees , formal French gardens or vegetable gardens often complete the ensemble.
Inside, the bastides combine old-world charm with modern comfort: exposed beams, terracotta floors, monumental fireplaces and impressive ceiling heights create a warm and elegant atmosphere.
A way of life in Provence
Acquiring a Provençal bastide is much more than buying a house: it's adopting a peaceful and refined lifestyle, in harmony with the seasons, between local markets, glasses of rosé on the terrace, and naps in the shade of olive trees. It's also about enjoying an exceptional climate, abundant sunshine, and a preserved natural environment.
A rare quality of life
Bastides are often situated in the heart of nature, without being completely isolated. They offer the opportunity to enjoy peace and quiet while remaining close to lively and vibrant villages. Many are just a few minutes from Uzès, Lourmarin, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, or Aix-en-Provence, true gems of the South.
High-end services
Many bastides have been carefully renovated to offer quality amenities: infinity pools, high-end fitted kitchens, master suites with private bathrooms, wellness areas, air-conditioned wine cellars or even pool houses for entertaining in style.
Where to buy a characterful bastide in Provence?
Provence is vast, and each area has its own unique characteristics. Here are a few particularly sought-after areas for buying characterful country houses:
The Luberon
A true Provençal postcard, the Luberon is home to bastides nestled amidst vineyards, lavender fields, and hilltop villages like Gordes, Bonnieux, and Ménerbes. These properties are highly sought after for their charm, unobstructed views, and proximity to amenities.
The Alpilles
Between Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence, the Alpilles offer an exceptional setting. Bastides stand alongside farmhouses and old residences, in a refined environment highly prized by international clientele.
The Aix region
Around Aix-en-Provence, the bastides are appealing for their classic elegance, their proximity to infrastructure (TGV, airport) and their green living environment, just minutes from the city center.
The Upper Var and the Pays de Fayence
Less well-known, this area is full of character properties, often more affordable, with superb views of the surrounding hills, lakes and forests.
Why invest in a Provençal bastide?
An exceptional property
Due to their rarity, timeless style, and prime locations, Provençal bastides represent a highly sought-after real estate asset. Their value is often stable, or even increasing, especially when they are well-maintained and situated in desirable areas.
Strong rental appeal
Renting out a charming Provençal country house seasonally can generate significant income, especially in the summer. Many international clients seek this type of property for holidays with family or friends.
A pleasure investment
Unlike other investments, a Provençal bastide provides immediate pleasure: you live there, you entertain there, you create memories there. It is a place to live as much as a heritage asset.
Charming Properties: your expert in characterful country houses
At Propriétés De Charme , we have carefully selected the most beautiful bastides for sale in Provence. Our team has in-depth knowledge of the region's specific characteristics, market prices, and the expectations of buyers of high-end properties. Whether you are looking for a family bastide, a second home, or a rental investment, we will guide you through every step of your project.
