| This two bedroom stone house is tucked away on a small hillside in the hamlet of La Colle. There are only three properties in La Colle, so there is little risk of traffic jams, noise, pollution, parking tickets, urban fog and other little side benefits that come with life in a big city. Just nature, tranquillity and peace occasionally disturbed by bird songs and the buzz of bees. Barely a five minute walk in any direction and the visitor is confronted with the splendour of nature, prairie, forest, lavender fields, scented shrubs, and the prodigality of the flora and the wild life. Here, nature is to be experienced by close contact, taste, and smell. Even the storms are spectacular! The owners moved here from London at the same time as Peter Mayle did. They could have written the book themselves! La Colle was built a few hundred years ago and stands as a good example of the traditional and ancient life and times of Provence. The accommodation itself has received the Five Globes Award presented by World One Call, a private holiday referral service. The accommodation is accessed from its own private staircase right into the main room with its original oak beams. This is a specific type of construction, as practiced some 150 years ago. The space has been kept open, so that the overall look of the room has maintained its original aspect. The first double bedroom has a commanding view over the valley and its crested hills in the distance. The second double bedroom has a make up/ changing area with a hand-basin. Coupled to this bedroom is an "en-suite " bathroom with a bath, shower, WC and basin. The two bedrooms are located at opposite ends of the gîte thus ensuring maximum privacy for its occupants. The accommodation is also equipped with a cot, high chair, baby bath, and other items for babies and small children.The house being accessed by a narrow country lane, it is not recommended to drive sport cars or caravans.
A great deal of additional information about this property and the surrounding area can be seen at our European web site at: http://perso.wanadoo.fr/colle/indexen.htm
Forcalquier is the principal town serving the area. There are two supermarkets, and a host of small shops and businesses to tempt your tastebuds. The local produce is excellent, especially the lamb, which is raised organically on the prairies and pastures, the tomatoes, and of course, the vast selection of high quality cheeses and wines. The main open market in Forcalquier is on Mondays. This is an event that should not be missed; visitors can explore the multitude of edible products on display, or just sit and relax in one of the three main cafés located on the market square. Throughout the summer, almost every town has a festival, show, concert, special event or fête. In addition, there are many interesting architectural sites to see within a thirty minute radius - including churches, monasteries, and the beautiful village of Lurs -a fully restored hilltop village full of artists. The beautiful countryside features some spectacular natural landmarks such as the Canyon of the Verdon river.
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