Moulin de la Roque Noves - Villa 5 Chambres Les Cigales

Moulin de la Roque is jaw-dropping--you think the online photos must be lucky shots, and then the real thing is better. We were 10 people (two teens) staying two weeks (very hot weeks) and we just loved everything that happened. The pool and the air conditioning overcame the heat, and all the facilities were excellent. We will come again.

A gorgeous, well kept, absolutely French property that is large enough, and has enough going on, to stay put for a few days. But when you DO want to venture out, everything is close by. We had a big group for a special birthday and spent quite a bit of our time on the property because it was just too nice to leave. Anything Gaby and Guy recommended was perfect. The best restaurants, markets, activities, and how to make the most of a particular day, were all covered by their generous and thoughtful recommendations. The kitchens were well stocked. Even the knives were good, and all the appliances you might need were available. Did I mention how gorgeous the property and buildings are, inside and out? A great place to book. We will be back.

It was dream-like. Such a beautiful setting and warm, comfortable home (with modern, high-end conveniences). The hosts, Gaby and Guy, were welcoming and always helpful, especially when Gaby drove with me to the nearby town where my credit card had been overcharged. The old mill itself has been preserved, and Guy was a tireless guide of its intricate workings. Meanwhile, that area of Provence is rich with town markets and hidden, fabulous restaurants.

Two couples enjoyed the very spacious Le Cigales villa at Moulin de la Roque in early October. It was a lovely time to visit with no crowds anywhere we went and cool refreshing weather. The estate is so lovely that one hates to leave but we did manage day outings each day and looked forward to returning in the late afternoon to our special provencal home. The villa is incredibly comfortable and beautifully decorated and supplied with everything a visitor might need. Guy and Gaby have compiled excellent notebooks full of ideas for outings, meals, shopping, etc. We particularly enjoyed our daily walk into the charming village of Noves to stock up on croissants and baguettes as well as fruit and vegetables. Market day at Chateaurenard and Eygalieres were also favorite memories and provided for delicious dinners in our villa. We are already planning a return visit!

We returned for our 4th visit in September, and promptly booked our 5th visit for this coming summer. This particular trip consisted of 4 couples and a private chef. Les Cigales was plenty for this. The centuries old mill (complete with stream) is historic in its own right, but is fully equipped with all the modern accoutrements. Various sized gites (apartments) make it to where if you want privacy for a romantic week, it is so. Or, like us most of the time, you want family around you sharing meals and afternoon sunsets, it is just so. The facility offers plenty of parking, a wonderful pool, hiking on hillsides, easy access to shopping and a great Petanque court for the occasional tourney only completed with a nice Rose'. The wonderful hosts, Guy and Gaby, are great sources of direction for fine dining and historical touring. Go to the weekly market in the various villages! You WILL return. The village, Noves, is complete for grocery shopping and pastries, and the larger village of St-Remy-de-Provence (10 miles) is where van Gogh did a great deal of his work and you will find fine dining. The market there on Wednesday morning is not to be missed. The villages of Gordes, Arles, Aix-en-Provence, Les Baux, and the historic city of Avignon (12 miles away) will occupy your days. A nice Cotes de Rhone and some of the outstanding cheeses found at the markets will occupy your nights. Enjoy!