Villa Renoir

About this property

Handsomely perched above the sea with exceptional French Riviera views, Villa Renoir exudes timeless elegance alongside contemporary style. This historic residence is just a stroll from a wonderful sandy bay with beachside restaurants and within easy reach of La Seyne-sur-Mer and Toulon.

Dating back to the late 19th century, its original creator drew inspiration from his time in Indochina – its shape pays respect to his love of the pagoda design whilst the three dragons resting at the very top of the villa were brought back from his travels in the Far East.

In more recent times, this magnificent villa has undergone a complete 21st century renovation yet still retains its authenticity and charm. Beautiful furnishings complement the picture-book windows, many looking straight out towards the sea, and modern features such as air-conditioning have been added. Each of the five inviting bedrooms has a private bathroom - the king-size double with a free-standing bath and romantic sea-view terrace is especially graceful.

Whether basking in the sunshine or listening to the breeze blowing through the pines, the gardens are simply glorious. Not only is there an infinity heated pool facing the Mediterranean, there are also vast terraces perfect for an aperitif as you gaze out towards the azure-coloured sea. Play pétanque in characterful surroundings (there’s also table tennis, billiards and table football inside) or wander through the verdant grounds dotted with olive and yucca trees.

When it’s time to leave, stroll down the lane towards the far-end of one of the area’s most popular beaches – a few minutes further and you can be soaking up the summer charm of beachside restaurants and the sandy bay backed by an attractive promenade. There’s a range of watersports, a shady park as well as atmospheric evening markets in July and August.

The wilder side of the coast also awaits with rocky coves a short walk away or drive towards the incredible walking trails of nearby Saint Mandrier sur Mer and the corniche Tamaris. Not forgetting the lovely maritime town of La Seyne-sur-Mer with its fish markets, pastel-coloured houses and enchanting ambience.

Then there’s the grand port city of Toulon with its bustling harbour, historic buildings, shops, markets and more. Admire sensational views by taking the cable car up to Mont Faron or hop on a ferry to Île de Porquerolles for yet another idyllic experience just off the Côte d'Azur.

In the Var department of the French Riviera, only 20 minutes from Toulon, Villa Renoir enjoys a stunning position directly above the sea and around 4km from the heart of La Seyne-sur-Mer.

Barely 300m from the villa, following the road down the hill, is a long sandy beach overlooking a beautiful bay. Walk along the shore and you will come across the main part of the beach with restaurants, shops and a bustling ambience, backed by an attractive promenade – look out for the atmospheric market on summer evenings in July and August. A little further, there’s also a wonderful park with Mediterranean plants, a koi pond and space for children to play beneath the shady trees.

On the wilder side of the coast, find tiny pebbly coves and pretty bays. Indeed, from your villa stroll along the coastal lane in the other direction, follow the many steps down to the coast and you will reach a small rocky bay – pack your jelly shoes to appreciate the crystal-clear water here. The next beach along (which can be accessed via a rocky path for the most adventurous, weather permitting) is larger and an idyllic spot for snorkelling or lunch in the beachside restaurant.

The heart of La Seyne-sur-Mer (4km) is very charming with a maritime heritage. Head down to the quayside for the morning fish market, then explore its narrow lanes with old houses and picturesque squares. Admire many of the elegant 19th century villas along the Tamaris corniche, visit historic forts or head to nearby Saint Mandrier sur Mer for more gorgeous vistas, swimming spots, scuba-diving opportunities and superb coastal trails.

This is also a remarkable area for hiking, horse-riding, jogging and mountain biking through the vast Janas forest or by the coast towards Cap Sicie and beyond. Families can appreciate the outstanding natural scenery whilst having fun at a forest-based activity centre around a 10-minute drive away where you will find nets, trampolines, slides, underground tunnels and more.

The handsome naval city of Toulon is around 10km away. Discover the historic harbour, spend time by the grand Place de la Liberté, enjoy the many shops and restaurants, then ride the cable car up to Mont Faron for spectacular views. The Musée de la Marine is a must for guests fascinated by Toulon’s maritime history whilst there are plenty of colourful markets where you can pick up all sorts of regional produce. For a complete change of scene, hop on a ferry to the beautiful Île de Porquerolles for glorious walks, landscapes and more.

Food lovers can also visit brilliant markets in La Seyne-sur-Mer, Sanary-sur-Mer, Six Fours Les Plages, Saint Mandrier sur Mer and Ollioules, amongst many other places across this part of the Var department. Also look out for vide-greniers, brocantes and delightful night markets in late July and August.

Accommodation

Villa Interiors (600m2, various levels)

-    Main lounge (60m2) 
-    Dining room with table for 10 guests
-    Professional kitchen, fully-equipped
-    Garden lounge (25m2) with sea-view
-    Events/reception space (85m2)
-    Bedroom with king-size double bed (180cm), bath, terrace, shower with sea-view and separate WC
-    Bedroom with queen-size double bed (160cm), small terrace with sea view, bathroom with shower and separate WC
-    Bedroom with queen-size double bed (160cm), garden view, bathroom with shower and separate WC
-    Bedroom with queen-size double bed (160cm), door leading to garden/swimming pool, bathroom with bath and separate WC
-    Bedroom with queen-size double bed (160cm), large window with sea view, bathroom with shower and separate WC

Outside Grounds (4000m2)

-    Heated infinity swimming pool (12x5m) with alarm
-    Landscaped gardens and terraces (various levels with steps)
-    Pétanque court

Facilities

-    Wi-Fi
-    Heating
-    Air-conditioning
-    Lift
-    TV and DVD player
-    Music system
-    Table tennis
-    Billiard table
-    Table football
-    Pétanque