La Maison Des Baronnies | 6-Bedroom Villa in La Beaume

Within striking distance of lavender-covered hillsides and Alpine peaks, a luxury villa rental in Hautes-Alpes positioned at 850 metres elevation transforms the notion of rural retreat into something altogether more refined. La Maison Des Baronnies anchors itself in the tiny hamlet of La Beaume, where seventeen centuries of history meet contemporary comfort across 357 square metres of living space. This is where twelve guests discover that countryside seclusion need not mean sacrificing sophisticated amenities.

Inside La Maison Des Baronnies

La Maison Des Baronnies sleeps 12 guests across 6 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms, distributed between the main residence and a detached studio. The architectural bones of this seventeenth-century farmhouse remain visible—exposed stone, timber elements, period proportions—yet contemporary design threads through every room without apology or compromise.

The main villa’s ground and upper levels contain five generously proportioned bedrooms. Two feature king-sized beds (160x200cm) paired with en suite bathrooms offering both freestanding rolltop tubs and walk-in showers. Two additional double bedrooms (160x200cm each) connect to ensuite wet rooms with walk-in showers and separate WC facilities. A fifth bedroom on the upper storey accommodates twin sleepers (90x200cm each), positioned beneath sloping ceilings with its own shower room. Thoughtful touches include quality linens, individual climate control, and working desks.

The studio annexe—accessed via its own entrance—provides privacy-seeking guests or couples with 32 square metres of self-contained living. A mezzanine bedroom with double bed (140x200cm) overlooks an open-plan kitchen-dining-living area. The kitchenette includes induction hob, oven, and Nespresso machine. A shower room with walk-in enclosure completes the arrangement.

Downstairs in the main villa, an open-plan living-dining zone flows toward large windows framing views toward the pine-forested slopes beyond. The kitchen operates at the level of a professional chef’s tool: Smeg double ovens, gas hob, commercial-grade dishwasher, dual coffee stations (Nespresso and Moccamaster), pasta maker, food processor, and blender. A separate WC prevents kitchen queues during group meals.

Three additional spaces define the property’s character. A cinema room equipped with rear projection (200x110cm glass screen) and DVD library converts evening hours into curated entertainment. The stone-vaulted cellar from the original farmstead now functions as an honesty bar, its shelves stocked and its subterranean cool providing theatrical ambiance for aperitifs. A dedicated fitness room contains yoga mats, dumbbells, kettlebells, and ballet barre—suitable for structured workouts or movement classes during quieter hours.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

The terraced grounds unfold across multiple levels, each commanding views toward surrounding woodland and distant ridgelines. A heated swimming pool (10 metres by 4 metres, depth 1.45 metres) operates April through October, equipped with electric safety shutter and sophisticated heating systems. Poolside loungers absorb morning sun; an adjacent hot tub (capacity 4-6) remains accessible year-round for evening immersion under star-filled skies.

An outdoor kitchen anchors the entertaining zone. Wood-fired pizza oven and traditional barbecue sit nearby—the kind of setup that converts meal preparation into social theatre. Ancient oak trees provide natural shade for long lunches. Various terrace levels accommodate different group configurations; some feature protective railings, others remain open to the panoramic view.

Active pursuits find their outlets in a dedicated boules pitch (petanque enthusiasts will recognize the carefully levelled court) and badminton net strung between posts. The grounds accommodate up to six vehicles in dedicated parking. Beyond immediate terraces, pine woodland edges the property, offering walking paths and natural shelter.

Two inflatable kayaks and two inflatable paddleboards store in the boot room—guests planning trips to nearby waterways will find these prepared. Four electric mountain bikes with full charging infrastructure support exploration of regional cycling routes, including sections historically traversed during Tour de France stages.

Location: La Beaume and the Surrounding Area

La Beaume sits within the Hautes-Alpes department of southeastern France, positioned as a genuine gateway to authentic Provençal countryside rather than its commodified interpretation. The hamlet itself remains deliberately undeveloped—a cluster of traditional dwellings rather than a tourist destination.

Immediate provisions arrive in a neighbouring village (10-minute drive): a restaurant-bar, grocery essentials, and boulangerie. Veynes, 20 kilometres distant, operates a proper supermarket and Thursday morning market stacked with seasonal fruit, vegetables, and regional produce. Serres (17km) hosts a Saturday market worth the short journey. These are working markets for local residents, not performance spaces for visitors.

Laragne-Monteglin (34km northeast) presents the region’s most atmospheric Thursday morning market—the kind where vendors arrange lavender bundles, honey jars, and produced goods alongside clothing and household items. The surrounding Büech valley supplies the lavender itself; visitors may follow the Routes de la Lavande during June through August when fields transition from green to purple. Plan d’Eau du Riou, adjacent to Laragne-Monteglin, offers lakeside picnicking with unremarkable views that nonetheless satisfy on warm afternoons.

Gorges de la Méouge (40km) presents turquoise water, riverside beaches, and small cascades—a legitimate swimming destination rather than postcard scenery. Plan d’Eau de Veynes (closer to base) features inflatable water installations and serves as a practical choice for families with younger children. Rock climbing enthusiasts recognize Orpierre (35km) for its established bolted routes and climbing culture. The River Büech itself supplies swimming holes and picnic settings throughout the valley floor.

Broader excursions reach Lac de Serre-Ponçon (just over one hour’s drive), a major Alpine lake offering watersports infrastructure, accommodation, and restaurants. The landscape transitions noticeably as elevation increases toward this larger water body.

For destination planning and regional context, explore our villas in Hautes-Alpes and browse additional luxury villas in France. Our Provence-Alpes travel guide provides comprehensive seasonal recommendations and activity planning. Additional properties appear in our full collection in La Beaume.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Extended family reunions find their ideal setting here. The twelve-guest capacity allows three-generation gatherings (grandparents, adult children, grandchildren) without the awkwardness of hotel arrangements. The separate studio provides parents with independent sleeping quarters while remaining connected to shared spaces.

Sophisticated friend groups—the kind who plan weeks together—thrive in the self-catering setup. The kitchen infrastructure supports collaborative cooking or inviting a private chef. The cinema room, honesty bar, and game collections keep evening hours occupied without requiring external entertainment.

Active couples and small groups attracted to hiking, cycling, and water activities will appreciate the valley location, equipment provisions (electric bikes, kayaks, paddleboards), and immediate access to established routes. The fitness room accommodates yoga practitioners or fitness routines without requiring gym memberships.

Less suitable: guests seeking nightlife, beach access within 30 minutes, or properties in developed resort areas. Equally, those requiring constant on-call services or hotel-style daily housekeeping may find the rural setting isolating.

Practical Information

Capacity: 12 guests maximum across 6 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms. Flexible accommodation includes the option to rent the main villa alone (10 guests, 5 bedrooms) or the main villa with 3-bedroom configuration (6 guests, with upper sections closed during low and mid-season periods).

Nearest airports: Marseille Provence (approximately 180km, 2.5-hour transfer), Grenoble-Isère (approximately 150km, 2.25 hours), or Lyon-Saint-Exupéry (approximately 220km, 3-hour transfer). Smaller regional airports at Avignon (160km) and Valence (110km) may suit some itineraries.

The property includes Wi-Fi, underfloor heating, wood-burning stove with logs, televisions, Bluetooth speaker system, workstation, telescope, washing and drying facilities, hairdryers in every bathroom, board games, and 2 x inflatable kayaks plus 2 x paddleboards. Pool heating (April-October) and hot tub operation (year-round) form part of standard provision. Linen and towels provision should be confirmed at booking; cleaning arrangements vary by rental terms.

Check-in and check-out flexibility depends on availability and booking type—discuss specific requirements during reservation inquiry.

Frequently Asked Questions about La Maison Des Baronnies

How many guests does La Maison Des Baronnies sleep?

La Maison Des Baronnies accommodates up to 12 guests across 6 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms. The main villa provides 5 bedrooms (two with rolltop baths and walk-in showers, two with walk-in showers only, one with twin beds), plus a separate studio with mezzanine bedroom. Low and mid-season bookings may restrict occupancy to 6 guests using the main villa’s lower three bedrooms only, with upper sections closed for heating efficiency.

What is the nearest airport to La Maison Des Baronnies in La Beaume?

Marseille Provence Airport represents the most common arrival point (approximately 180km south, roughly 2.5 hours’ drive). Grenoble-Isère Airport (150km northeast, 2.25 hours) and Lyon-Saint-Exupéry (220km north, 3 hours) provide alternative routing. Smaller regional airports at Avignon (160km) and Valence (110km) may offer fewer crowds and shorter transfer times depending on flight availability and timing.

What is the best time of year to rent La Maison Des Baronnies?

May through September offers optimal weather: warm daytime temperatures (18-28°C), low rainfall, and reliable pool heating (April-October operational). July-August brings peak tourism, higher rates, and busier local venues. June and September provide superior conditions—warm enough for comfortable swimming and outdoor dining, yet less crowded than midsummer. Easter through May suits spring-focused visitors interested in wildflower displays and mild temperatures. October remains viable for those comfortable with variable weather and lower heating expectations. Winter (November-March) presents cold nights and frequent cloud cover, though dramatic scenery persists and prices drop significantly.

Is La Maison Des Baronnies suitable for families with children?

Yes, with important caveats. The heated swimming pool (April-October) and hot tub accommodate supervised family use. The electric safety shutter on the pool provides security. Plan d’Eau de Veynes (approximately 20km) features inflatable water park installations specifically designed for younger children. The villa’s outdoor badminton, boules equipment, and board game collections sustain children’s engagement. The cinema room provides evening entertainment during variable weather. However, the rural location (10-20km from nearest village amenities) requires families to plan provisions in advance and tolerate limited spontaneous entertainment options. No dedicated children’s clubs, activity centres, or built-in childcare services exist on-site—families must arrange childcare directly or bring responsible supervision.

What is included in the rental price at La Maison Des Baronnies?

Standard inclusions comprise Wi-Fi access, underfloor heating, wood-burning stove fuel (logs), pool heating (April-October season), hot tub operation year-round, electricity, and water provision. Furnishings, kitchen equipment (including coffee makers, ovens, dishwasher), televisions, and entertainment systems (projector, DVD library) form part of the property. Linen, towel provision, and baseline cleaning arrangements require confirmation at booking. Equipment provisions (electric bicycles, inflatable kayaks and paddleboards, badminton nets, boules sets, board games, fitness equipment, telescope) remain at the property for guest use. Cooking classes, spa treatments, yoga instruction, and private chef services require separate arrangement and additional fees.

What restaurants and shops are near La Maison Des Baronnies?

Immediate provisions (restaurant-bar, grocery store, boulangerie) sit 10 minutes’ drive in the nearest village. Veynes (20km) operates a full supermarket and Thursday morning market. Serres (17km) hosts a Saturday morning market. Laragne-Monteglin (34km) anchors the region’s most characterful Thursday market and supplies restaurant options. Formal dining establishments remain limited in this rural area; fine dining typically requires travel toward larger towns (Veynes, Gap, or beyond). The region sustains no Michelin-starred restaurants within 30km, though countryside bistros and traditional Provençal establishments function adequately. Advance meal planning and restaurant reservation (particularly in summer months) prove essential for groups expecting predictable dining experiences.