The hilltop village of Mirabeau, with a population of only 1,000, is centered around a beautiful plaza, and has been the site of two films, Manon des Sources and Jean de Florette. The village is an easy 20 miles northeast of Aix-en-Provence, and has a bakery and two small groceries. There is much to see and do in the vicinity, from vineyard tours, historical sites, riding bikes, hiking in the Alp
s, or just maybe, enjoying your immersion into quiet rural French life. The cottage is a traditional 5-story “maison de village,” within the town’s ancient wall, dating back to 1456. The cottage was renovated in 1999, and new appliances were installed, including a dishwasher. Nevertheless, every care was taken to ensure that the 500+ year spirit of the home was retained, and the décor is colorful but simple, in the Provençal style. A note: this home is for adventurous travelers who prefer more rustic accommodations in an authentic and small home, with steep stone stairs and just 1 bathroom on a lower level. A stone spiral staircase runs 5 floors through the cottage so beware to those who might find this difficult. On the lowest floor is la cave, a storage room with mountain bikes and outdoor furniture for barbeques. Above this is the 2nd floor, containing one bunk room (sleeps 4) and the bathroom with shower, and clothes washer. On the 3rd floor is the kitchen/dining room with a fireplace and the primary entrance through a small door from the very thin, old street. Above this is a living room, with another working fireplace and a fold-out bed. On the top floor is a master bedroom with skylight and beautiful views west across fields and hills. All rooms face west, allowing for wonderful afternoon sun and sunsets. There is no garden, but the lower street is often used as an outdoor area for barbeques and parties. A public forest above the village is easy to access and provides terrific views looking south over Provence. Street parking is available free near the home. Please note that the staircase is thin, and guests should be comfortable with walking carefully and steadily on stairs. The cottage is best for groups of up to 6 people, and suits couples or families ready to be active and informal. The typical fee is Euros € 60) or approximately $US 75 per night. Guests are asked to clean the house at the end of their stay, or, for an additional payment of €80) or approximately US $100 on site, a cleaner can be hired. There is no phone or internet. The stay must be arranged by mutual agreement. Aix-en-Provence is easily accessible by train and at the TGV train station there is also car rentals.
