l’Amiradou: a belvedere or panoramic view point
in the Vaucluse dialect of Provence
Twenty years ago, we fell in love with the unspoilt Vaucluse. Despite being part of Provence, the Vaucluse had kept much of the charm that enchanted us in the stories of Marcel Pagnol. This was Provence before its discovery by mass tourism - the small hilltop villages around the region overlooking a host of small vineyards (rather than sprawling conurbations of holiday homes). Yet, it is a region that has not been left behind in a more cosmopolitan world, where quiet sophistication and good taste can be found around every corner.
At the foot of Mont Ventoux, we found an old village farmhouse in need of some love and attention. We called it l’Amiradou because it was a home and a belvedere, whose panoramic views over the Vaucluse we have found to be healing. We find peace and tranquility whenever we are there.
What is it about panoramic vistas and delightful vignettes of a simpler life that helps us relax, feel lighter? As we looked out over the views of the Vaucluse, we could literally hear the hiss of city-life stress escaping from the base of our necks, like air escaping a pin prick in a balloon. We dreamt of a place of our own to rest and recharge, a view to help us remember how wonderful the world we live in can be, and found a home where we can be ourselves.
This was the beginning of our collection of private estates where you can be At Home with a View.
In different parts of the world, we have found unique homes with views from our doorstep that recharge.
Our homes are places where you can relax and rest and be away from it all. Yet, for the days when you feel energised, there is also much to do nearby. From country sports to great food and historical sites, you will be spoilt for choice when you decide to venture away from tranquility for a while.
