Villa Jolivet | 10-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool in Provence Mons

Fourteen guests arrive on a Friday evening in rural Languedoc, and by Saturday morning they’ve forgotten their phones exist. Villa Jolivet is a luxury villa rental in Provence that accommodates 19 people across 10 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms, transforming a six-century-old farmhouse into a contemporary sanctuary where groups—whether multigenerational families, corporate retreats, or friend collectives—actually want to spend time together. Located 7km from Alès in the Gard department, this property sits on 40,000 square metres of fenced private land, far enough from the village to feel genuinely remote, yet close enough that essential services exist within walking distance.

Inside Villa Jolivet

The entrance hall greets you with immediate architectural drama: 70 square metres, a vaulted ceiling, a billiard table, and a mezzanine level overlooking the space. An olive tree grows directly from the tiled floor—a permanent reminder that this was once a working rural dwelling. From here, the main floor unfolds across multiple interconnected zones, each designed to handle groups without forcing everyone into shared spaces.

The reception room (40m²) features a vaulted ceiling, stone fireplace, and a 4-metre water fountain that runs electrically—both visual spectacle and ambient sound. The kitchen (48m²) is the genuine centre of gravity: high ceilings, a Smeg oven, two full-size fridges, a freezer, two dishwashers, and doors opening directly to the garden. A separate pantry room stocks a microwave, blender, and fondue set for casual meals. The morning tea room serves as a transitional space with armchairs—the kind of spot where early risers gather before the full group wakes.

Two distinct dining arrangements mean family groups needn’t all eat together: the main dining room seats 18 guests beneath vaulted ceilings with direct wine cellar access, while a children’s dining room (20m²) provides a secondary seating area with a round table for 6–8. The cocktail room (25m²) opens to the garden via glass doors, naturally flowing into outdoor entertaining. A library (40m²) houses an actual collection of antique books, a working fireplace, and games for quieter evenings—bridge tables, chess, backgammon.

The TV lounge contains a 50-inch Smart television, surround sound, DVD and CD players, and an iPhone dock. The laundry facilities include two washing machines and two dryers, essential infrastructure for a property of this scale. A ground-floor WC near the entrance, a second WC adjacent to the library, and a dedicated games and entertainment wing means guests spend minimal time queuing.

Bedrooms on the main floor comprise two interconnected suites. Suite 1 offers a 16m² bedroom with a 180x200cm double bed and dressing area, a connecting 10m² bedroom with twin 80x200cm beds, a 18m² lounge with a 150x200cm sofa bed, television, kitchenette, and a bathroom featuring two showers, dual sinks, and a WC. Suite 2 provides a 25m² bedroom with a 210x210cm floating double bed and dressing area, adjoining a 10m² bedroom with a single 80x200cm bed, plus a bathroom with two showers, oversized sink, and separate WC.

The upper floor contains the greatest concentration of sleeping arrangements. An 85m² living room dominates this level, anchored by a grand fireplace and overlooking the reception room below via a window. A spiral staircase ascends to a mezzanine library housing ancient volumes. A 30m² children’s play room features a safety gate and dedicated play equipment.

Five additional bedrooms occupy the upper floor. The first (28m²) holds a 160x200cm double bed (configured with twin 100x200cm covers), television, DVD player, and dressing area. Its mezzanine (11m²) accessible by ladder contains two mattresses. Doors open to the garden via an exterior staircase. The second upper bedroom (24m²) contains a 160x200cm double bed (twin covers), television, and a 9m² mezzanine with two mattresses. The third (25m²) features a 160x200cm double bed (twin covers), large dressing area, television, and an open-plan bathroom with bath-shower combination and double sink integrated into the bedroom space itself. The fourth (18m²) offers a 160x200cm double bed (twin covers), television, and a bathroom notable for its decorative antique stone vessel serving as the sink.

The master bedroom (45m²) commands the upper floor’s finest proportions: an Italian-style 170x200cm double bed, expansive dressing area, television, DVD player, office equipment, and a safe. An 18m² mezzanine above the bathroom accommodates additional beds on request. The ensuite bathroom is proportional to the bedroom—a freestanding bathtub for two and a large walk-in shower.

Up to four additional guests can occupy mattresses on mezzanine levels, available on request and subject to supplementary fees. A separate cottage annexe (ideal for staff, nannies, or chauffeurs) contains a 15m² bedroom with 140x200cm double bed (twin covers), television and DVD player, and a compact bathroom with shower and stone sink.

Throughout Villa Jolivet, air-conditioning operates in upper-floor bedrooms and the annexe (some units portable). Heated floors warm certain interior zones. Mattress protectors preserve bed condition. Wi-Fi reaches all occupied areas. This is infrastructure designed for extended stays and large groups, not weekend quick visits.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

The landscape surrounding Villa Jolivet justifies the 40,000-square-metre property boundary. The swimming pool measures 7 metres by 25 metres with a maximum depth of 1.55 metres, equipped with a perimeter alarm for safety. Eight sun loungers (100x210cm each), four large parasols, eight single sun beds, and four fatboy loungers cluster on the poolside terrace. A sail structure provides afternoon shade over small tables and chairs. A six-person jacuzzi maintains temperatures between 35–40 degrees Celsius.

The pool house (6m²) contains a secondary kitchen space with two fridges and a dishwasher—useful when the main kitchen feels too far away. A dedicated fitness room (25m²) overlooks the pool, housing equipped gym machines and a television. Its adjoining bathroom features two showers, a WC, sink, and a glass sauna.

The summer kitchen (45m²) represents outdoor entertaining infrastructure designed for groups. Partially open with three walls, it overlooks both swimming pool and boules court. Inside: a wooden table seating 18 guests, a fireplace, a Smeg stovetop with dishwasher and fridge, a gas barbecue, and a pizza/bread oven. This space functions as a secondary dining room when weather permits or as an extended lounge for evening gatherings.

Beyond water and dining, recreational infrastructure includes a tennis court (béton poreux surface) with lighting and an elevated spectator area with two pergola structures. A dedicated boules court sits adjacent to the summer kitchen—the classic Languedoc pastime. A three-metre trampoline occupies its own zone within the manicured gardens. A golf house provides storage and laundry facilities for staff use.

The formal grounds encompass 5,000 square metres of manicured lawn, a small wooded section, and defined paths throughout—all fenced with integrated lighting for evening navigation. Water fountains accent the landscape. Fruit trees provide seasonal harvests. Covered parking accommodates eight vehicles, with additional open parking for up to 20 cars—essential when hosting 19 guests arriving simultaneously.

A dedicated reception hall overlooking the swimming pool can host events and private dinners, transforming the property into a venue. The physical layout naturally separates relaxation zones (pool and garden), entertainment spaces (summer kitchen, boules), fitness areas (gym and sauna), and quiet retreats (library, mezzanines).

Location: Provence and the Surrounding Area

Villa Jolivet occupies the Gard department of Languedoc-Roussillon, positioned between two of southern France’s most historically significant destinations. The property sits 7km north-east of Alès, a market town serving as the gateway to Cévennes National Park—a 920-square-kilometre protected area ideal for hiking, cycling, and natural exploration.

The nearest village lies just 1.5km away via quiet country lanes (approximately 30 minutes on foot), offering a pharmacy, local groceries, and a pizzeria nestled within a village park. A larger supermarket sits slightly further, with Alès itself—the Gard’s second-largest town—accessible within seven kilometres. Major airport access includes Nîmes Airport (60km, approximately 55 minutes by car), Avignon Airport (86km, approximately 75 minutes), and train connections into Alès station (direct connections to Nîmes TGV service, which receives high-speed trains from Paris).

Nîmes itself, 50km south-west, warrants a full-day excursion. Often called the French Rome, the city preserves extraordinary Roman architecture: the Maison Carrée temple, the Amphitheatre of Nîmes (the best-preserved Roman amphitheatre in France, dating to the 1st or 2nd century AD), and a historic centre layered with medieval and Renaissance structures. The Pont du Gard, a UNESCO World Heritage site located 50km away, represents one of Europe’s most photographed ancient monuments—a three-tiered Roman aqueduct spanning the Gardon river.

Uzès, 36km north (approximately 30 minutes by car), serves as a medieval stronghold centred on the 11th-century Tour Fenestrelle, a 42-metre Romanesque tower visible for kilometres across the surrounding landscape. The Saturday night market here has become regionally famous, offering locally produced food, clothing, artisan goods, and tourist-oriented crafts. Browse our Languedoc travel guide for detailed exploration of regional wine routes, chef-driven restaurants, and seasonal festivals throughout the area.

The Cévennes offers more than natural scenery. The Mont Aigoual observation tower (60km) provides panoramic views across three regions on clear days. The Gorges du Tarn (90km) features dramatic limestone canyons, kayaking routes, and small villages specialising in local cheeses and cured meats. Wine enthusiasts access the Rhône Valley appellations within reasonable driving distance, with numerous domaines offering tastings. For exploration of comparable properties in the region, explore our luxury villas in Provence and our villas in Cassis for alternative Languedoc bases.

The best travel windows are April–May (spring temperatures 18–22°C, wildflower season, Easter holidays) and September–October (early autumn 22–26°C, harvest season in vineyards, smaller crowds than July–August). Summer months (July–August) bring intense heat (30–35°C) and peak tourism. Winter (November–February) offers mild conditions (8–12°C) but reduced outdoor activity. Lavender blooms throughout June in the Drôme Provençale, roughly 90km south-east. Truffle markets operate December through March in Uzès and surrounding villages.

For destination context, explore our full collection in France, which includes properties across diverse regions from the Alps to the Mediterranean.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Villa Jolivet accommodates specific guest profiles effectively. Large extended families—three generations, 15–19 people—benefit from bedroom abundance, separate children’s dining and play areas, and the ability for teenagers and grandparents to occupy different zones without forced interaction. The annexe cottage suits live-in staff (nanny, chef, chauffeur) seamlessly.

Corporate groups and team retreats find the property’s scale and facilities well-suited: a reception hall for meetings, Wi-Fi throughout, the library for focused work, and recreational amenities (boules, tennis, gym) for structured team-building activities without organised entertainment companies.

Friend collectives numbering 12–19 appreciate the multiple entertaining spaces: groups can split between summer kitchen barbecues, pool relaxation, tennis games, and evening library board games simultaneously without feeling fragmented. The dual dining arrangements—main room and children’s room—allow flexible meal timing.

Couples seeking to host their wedding weekend find the reception hall, garden scale, and 19-person capacity suitable for intimate ceremonies followed by extended celebrations. The kitchen infrastructure supports either private chef hire or collaborative group cooking.

Villa Jolivet is not designed for couples seeking romantic seclusion—it functions optimally with 12+ guests. Properties with 2–4 bedrooms better serve that market.

Practical Information

Villa Jolivet sleeps 19 guests across 10 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms, with additional capacity available on mezzanine mattresses by request. The nearest airport, Nîmes-Garons Airport, sits 60km away with approximately 55-minute driving time. Avignon Airport (86km) offers more flight options but requires 75-minute transfer.

Check-in typically occurs from 4:00 PM onwards; check-out is 10:00 AM. Flexible timing accommodates flight schedules by prior arrangement. The property includes on-site concierge services, maid service, chef availability on request, butler services, and babysitting—allowing groups to select staffing based on requirements without permanent wages.

Utilities, Wi-Fi, pool heating, and standard linen provision are included in rental rates. Hot tub maintenance, sauna operation, and gym access feature as standard amenities. The tennis court, boules area, and garden facilities require no additional fees. Bikes (four available) and quad vehicles (two available) are included unless the property hosts an event. Guest security systems, motion alarms, and perimeter fencing provide safety infrastructure.

The property functions year-round. Summer guests benefit from warm swimming conditions and outdoor entertaining; spring and autumn offer reduced temperatures and smaller crowds. Winter visitors access the property’s interior amenities (fireplace library, cinema room, games) and enjoy heating systems throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions about Villa Jolivet

How many guests does Villa Jolivet sleep?

Villa Jolivet sleeps 19 guests across 10 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms. The main house contains nine bedrooms and a separate cottage annexe provides one additional bedroom. Bed configurations include double beds (some configured with twin covers), single beds, twin beds, and sofa beds. Up to four additional guests can occupy mattresses on mezzanine levels via ladder access, available by request and subject to supplementary charges. The precise arrangement depends on group composition and specific requirements.

What is the nearest airport to Villa Jolivet in Provence?

Nîmes-Garons Airport lies 60 kilometres south-west of Villa Jolivet, approximately 55 minutes by car. Avignon Airport, 86 kilometres south (approximately 75 minutes), offers more frequent international flights but requires longer transfer time. Both airports have car rental services and taxi firms familiar with rural Languedoc destinations. Private car hire or chauffeur services are available through the on-site concierge team.

What is the best time of year to rent Villa Jolivet?

April through May offers ideal conditions: spring temperatures of 18–22°C, blooming wildflowers, Easter school holidays, and manageable crowds. September through October provides early autumn warmth (22–26°C), harvest season activities in nearby vineyards, and post-summer tranquillity. July and August bring intense heat (30–35°C) and peak tourism; pools warm beautifully but villages become crowded. Winter (November–February) suits guests prioritising indoor entertainment—fireplace library, cinema, board games—with mild temperatures (8–12°C). December through March features truffle markets in Uzès and surrounding villages for speciality food experiences.

Is Villa Jolivet suitable for families with children?

Yes. Villa Jolivet includes specific family infrastructure: a dedicated children’s play room (30m²) with safety gates, a secondary children’s dining room with round table seating, a three-metre trampoline, and multiple bedrooms with mezzanine spaces (accessible by ladder) where older children enjoy private sleeping zones. The swimming pool (1.55m maximum depth) suits families; a perimeter alarm system adds security. Ground-floor bedrooms with bathroom access accommodate younger guests without stair navigation. The jacuzzi, tennis court, and boules area provide structured activities. The nearest village pharmacy and supermarket (1.5km) stock children’s medicines and foods. Babysitting services are available on request through the concierge team. The property is not fenced internally between zones, so supervision of young children requires active parental involvement rather than design-based containment.

What is included in the rental price at Villa Jolivet?

Standard inclusions are: all utilities (electricity, heating, hot water), Wi-Fi throughout the property, pool heating and maintenance, bed linen and bath towels, housekeeping and maid service, use of the gym, sauna, tennis court, boules court, garden facilities, and trampoline. The four bicycles and two quad vehicles are included for guest use except during event bookings. Access to board games, books, and entertainment equipment (DVDs, CDs, Smart TV) features as standard. Parking is complimentary for guests. Supplementary fees apply for chef hire, butler services, babysitting arrangements, additional mezzanine mattress usage, and any event hosting that displaces guest recreation facilities. Spa treatments, external activity guides, and restaurant reservations can be arranged through concierge services with separate charges.

What restaurants and shops are near Villa Jolivet?

The nearest village (1.5km) contains a pharmacy, local épicerie (grocery), and a pizzeria located within a village park—walkable destinations for casual meals or supplies. Alès (7km away) offers multiple supermarkets, conventional restaurants, bakeries, and local butchers. Uzès (36km, approximately 30 minutes) features the Saturday night market specialising in local produce, cheese, cured meats, and regional wines. Numerous restaurants operate within Uzès’ medieval centre; the town is known for gastronomy focused on local ingredients. Nîmes (50km) contains comprehensive restaurant options ranging from casual to Michelin-recognised establishments, reflecting the city’s size and culinary reputation. The on-site concierge can arrange restaurant reservations, grocery shopping, and private chef hire if group preferences lean toward in-villa dining.