Villa Baulieu – Gardens & Estate
Nestled within a crater of mineral-rich volcanic rock, the Villa Baulieu estate is a living monument to the history of Provence and its fertile farmlands, where grapevines and fragrant gardens have grown since the Greco-Roman era.
A Provençal paradise
Millions of years ago, volcanic activity formed the landscape that would become known as beau-lieu (“beautiful place”), whose fertile soils brought forth teeming vineyards and abundant orchards. Over the centuries, the many noble families who dwelt at Baulieu worked to foster this precious botanical heritage.
The 300 hectares of parklands surrounding the villa were designed in the 17th century, and were later adorned with popular features of the Romantic era, including a maze, marble fountains, a hidden grotto and a temple d’amour, inviting guests to wander its tranquil pathways and bask in the secret history that surrounds them.
Wellsprings and waterways
The waters of Baulieu are one of the estate’s most treasured features, forming a conduit between nature and the gardens. In addition to its four antique fountains and three ornate ponds, Baulieu is also home to a number of natural springs, whose waters are rich in healing minerals carried up from the volcanic rock below.
These water features shape the grounds and gardens, adorning their pathways and adding gentle music to the serenade of nature. Their calming waters soothe both mind and body; on hot summer days, the fountains and swimming pond provide islands of cool refreshment and relaxation.
A legacy rooted in the land
n the grounds around the Villa, rows of vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, carrying on a legacy reaching all the way back to the Greco-Roman era. Each year, Baulieu’s expert viticulteurs draw upon their unique knowledge of the land and their craft to create a range of exceptional wines.
In September and October, a selection of grape varieties are harvested by hand, before being pressed and aged at the Baulieu winery. Guests can enjoy guided tours of the vineyards, almond groves and truffle patches, to learn all about the fascinating terroir that makes Baulieu so unique.
Set your own pace
Every stay at the Villa Baulieu is an opportunity to reconnect with the peaceful joy of nature, in surroundings where your wellness can flourish in fertile soil. Unwind by the Villa’s stone-paved swimming pool, whose waters are naturally filtered by UV, before enjoying a relaxing massage in the rose garden or among the gently rustling vines.
Guests seeking a spot of invigoration can head to the tennis court, play pétanque or take all-terrain bikes for a cycle around the estate, before unwinding with a steam or sauna in Baulieu’s elegant hammam spa. However you prefer to enjoy the outdoors, the Baulieu estate is an endless playground just waiting to be explored.
