A genuine village setting in the heart of Provence

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Chara is tucked away in the quiet village of Alleins, where life flows with an easy, unhurried rhythm. The village embraces its motto, “village you are, village you will remain,” a simple yet telling reflection of its timeless character. The narrow streets wind through the village, each turn offering a glimpse of village life as it has been for generations. There is no rush here—only the pleasure of strolling past weathered stone houses, perhaps stopping at a café to sip a glass of chilled rosé and watch the world go by. If hunger strikes, the village’s modest restaurants offer a taste of local fare, or you can enjoy a pizza at the pizzeria, where the warmth of the wood-fired oven is always inviting.

On Tuesday mornings, the village hosts a small but charming market. It may be tiny in scale, but it’s packed with local flavor, offering fresh fruit and vegetables straight from nearby farms. It’s a practical, pleasant place to stock up on the essentials—perfectly in keeping with the village’s character. The scent of freshly baked bread from the bakery nearby completes the experience, making it an easy and delightful weekly tradition.

Despite its peacefulness, Alleins is perfectly positioned for exploring the wider wonders of Provence. Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Marseille, Arles, and Nîmes are all a short drive away, and Marignane Airport (Marseille) is just 40 minutes by car. The TGV stations in Aix and Avignon are also within an hour, making it easy to visit nearby cities and towns.

The surrounding landscape is everything one could hope for from Provence—rolling hills covered in vineyards, olive groves stretching out into the distance, and orchards brimming with fruit. The villages of the Luberon and Alpilles—Lourmarin, Gordes, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Roussillon—are just a short drive away, each offering a glimpse of the region’s stunning beauty and a pace of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. A visit to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, often called the “Venice of Provence,” is also highly recommended. Its canals, antique markets, and charming streets are perfect for an afternoon of exploration.

For those with a love of history, the nearby Cistercian abbeys of Sénanque and Silvacane are not to be missed. Sénanque, in particular, is breathtaking when the lavender fields bloom in summer, filling the air with their rich scent. The peaceful, austere architecture of both abbeys invites quiet reflection, making them perfect spots for those seeking a moment of serenity. The area also boasts numerous ancient Roman monuments, with ruins and sites scattered across the landscape, offering a fascinating journey back in time.

The region offers a wealth of outdoor activities. The hills around Alleins are ideal for hiking and cycling, providing countless trails with views that stretch across the landscape. Golf enthusiasts will be pleased to know that there is a golf course just 5 minutes from the house, offering another way to enjoy the surrounding beauty. For nature lovers, the Camargue—a unique natural region famous for its wild horses, flamingos, and vast salt flats—is an excellent day trip. Its unspoiled beauty and distinctive wildlife make it a haven for those who appreciate nature in its rawest form.

If the sea calls, the beaches of Saintes-Marie-de-la-Mer or the calanques around Marseille are easily accessible, offering the perfect escape for a day by the Mediterranean.

As evening falls, the long summer nights come alive with a special magic. Just 15 minutes away, the international piano festival at La Roque d’Anthéron offers world-class performances in a setting that captures the heart of Provence. Whether you’re a lover of music or simply enjoy the serene beauty of the region, it’s the perfect way to end the day.

Chara offers the perfect base for exploring Provence, from its peaceful village streets to the surrounding hills, historic sites, and the natural wonders nearby. It is a place where the beauty of the landscape, the warmth of the culture, and the simplicity of life come together to create an experience that is at once timeless and uniquely French.

When the Good Lord begins to doubt the world, he remembers that he created Provence.

- Frédéric Mistral
Provencal poet and writer, Nobel prize for litterature 1904

Nearby

Gorgeous vistas, quiet country roads, Roman-era monuments and Michelin star restaurants are all within easy reach. So are artistic centers and small Provencal cities. And yet you can return evenings to a quiet village and the calm tranquility of bygone era.