Mas Du Heron France

Stay in a 19th century farmhouse set in the most wonderful gardens in the tranquil surroundings of Barthelasse Island, just a 7km drive or cycle ride from the historic city of Avignon.
Pass century old trees and borders of vividly coloured hydrangeas as you stroll along the path to your Provençal holiday home. There’s an air of authenticity here with the old stone building so typical of the past, juxtaposed beautifully with interiors akin to a boutique-style abode.
Five gorgeous bedrooms await, each one thoughtfully renovated by the mas’ owners. With refined décor alongside original features, guests can expect mostly queen or king-size beds, air-conditioning, plush luxuriant shower rooms and Smart TVs in every bedroom. At the top of the house, a family suite takes over the second floor with a twin and double bedroom alongside characterfully tiled floors and an Italian shower with a hydromassage feature.
The living spaces are also elegant with a lounge, dining room and contemporary kitchen whilst the outdoors offers ample room for al-fresco feasts. Pour a Provençal aperitif, perhaps from the island’s distillery, as you watch the children play amongst the fruit and olive trees – here you’ll find pears, figs, plums and apricots.
The salt-water swimming pool is also a joy, set within the hectare of glorious grounds. As you relax by the pool you can truly appreciate the tranquility of the island, surrounded by a patchwork of orchards, farmland and countryside.
Take advantage of the farmhouse’s bikes and cycle along the island’s many trails, especially by the river where there’s a diverse variety of flora, fauna and wildlife. Around 4km away, stop off by the marina on the banks of the Petit Rhône where you have such lovely views over the river towards Pont d’Avignon and the Palais des Papes, two UNESCO World Heritage sites. A little ferry will transport you across to Avignon.
As well as the city’s historic sights, soak up the artistic ambience during Avignon’s festival in July and make the most of the vibrant restaurant and wine scene. It goes without saying that the markets around Avignon and nearby Villeneuve-lès-Avignon are a must for food lovers.
Heading further afield, visit L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue on a Sunday morning for its famous brocante, follow Van Gogh’s footsteps in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence or Arles, and discover the outstanding natural beauty of the Luberon landscapes. Not to mention the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, so easily reached from your picture-perfect island holiday home. Mas Du Heron enjoys such a picturesque setting within its hectare of vast grounds on île de la Barthelasse, the island between the two arms of the Rhône, only 7km from the beauty of historic Avignon.
Île de la Barthelasse is France’s largest river island and has been protected by urban development meaning it’s a patchwork of orchards, farms and countryside. It’s best explored by bike – the owners can help arrange electric bike hire so you can follow the island’s cycling paths, looking out for a diverse range of flora, fauna and wildlife by the banks of the river. Stop off at nearby farms to buy delicious local produce and visit the island’s distillery to purchase drinks inspired by the flavours of Provence.
There’s no better place to cycle than the banks of the Petit Rhône with a view over the river towards Pont d’Avignon and the Palais des Papes, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. There are boat crossings to Avignon from a marina around 4km from Mas Du Heron or you can drive into Avignon in around 10 to 15 minutes.
Of course, Avignon’s historic sites are a must-see, yet you should also take time to soak up the cultural ambience of this small yet vibrant city. The contemporary Avignon festival draws visitors from across France and beyond in July whilst there are charming museums and art galleries scattered across the city. Experience the colours and aromas of the market traders at Les Halles d’Avignon, try excellent Provençal wine in atmospheric bars and take advantage of the city’s lively restaurant scene.
Food lovers should also head across to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon (7.5km) on a Thursday morning when traders set up their stalls on Place Charles David. It’s one of the most wonderful markets of the region, as is the flea market on a Saturday morning. Not to mention other fantastic markets across Provençal villages and towns such as L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (40km), Saint-Rémy-de-Provence (30km), Coustellet (40km) and beyond. L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue’s famous Sunday morning brocante is also not to be missed, perhaps followed by lunch on a waterside terrace in this incredibly picturesque town.
For wine-tasting you have the highly regarded wineries of Châteauneuf-du-Pape (25km) within easy reach and other vineyards of the Rhône valley. Alternatively, head south-east towards the undulating landscapes of the Luberon with its vineyards, woodland, orchards and some of Provence’s iconic perched villages such as Ménerbes, Bonnieux and Gordes, so loved by Van Gogh, all reached in around an hour by car. At Excellence Luxury Villas we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact Excellence Luxury Villas Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
– Maid service/extra cleaning – Private chef/cook/catering- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge- Local day-trips or tours- Airport pick-up/drop-off- Babysitting/childcare services
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
– Wine-tasting- Electric bike hire
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!