Highly sought-after, the Provençal bastides are the delight of enthusiasts of traditional homes that blend elegance, sophistication, and regional architecture. Are you considering purchasing a prestigious and characteristic dwelling in the South of France? Michaël Zingraf Real Estate agencies offer exceptional bastides nestled in the heart of the most picturesque villages of Provence.
What is a Provençal bastide?
Originally, a bastide referred to the manor house of an agricultural estate (or, by extension, the entire complex of farm buildings). In the 17th century, these rural homes gradually became luxurious secondary residences where, during the summer months, the Provençal bourgeoisie and aristocracy escaped the city heat and oversaw their lands. Today, the elegant and authentic lines of the bastides, their spacious rooms, and expansive landscaped exteriors make them highly coveted properties on the luxury real estate market.
The characteristics of Provençal bastides
From the 18th century onward, traditional bastides were renovated by their owners to become comfortable country retreats. These refurbishments personalized the buildings, resulting in several architectural styles. Despite this diversity, the bastides have retained several common features:
- The facade of the main building maintains a certain symmetry: windows flank the centrally placed entrance door.
- Unlike the Provençal farmhouse, the architectural complex features large windows, always in an odd number.
- The roof boasts a four-sided Roman tile design.
- The construction is carried out in stone, plaster, and/or terracotta. The stones are usually covered with an ochre-colored coating to remain inconspicuous.
- The building consists of a spacious ground floor housing the living areas and pantry; the upper floors are reserved for bedrooms.
- The exterior includes a French-style garden or a boxwood garden, and features a trellis, a shaded esplanade, and a well.
- The living spaces have significant volume with ceiling heights of around 3 meters.
- The residence is often situated on a hill or elevated area, near a water source to enable the creation of fountains, ponds, and water features.
Where to buy a bastide in Provence?
As an emblematic region of the South of France, Provence still boasts authentic period bastides within its territory. Having retained their original charm, these beautiful bourgeois homes have now been renovated to provide their occupants with the utmost level of comfort. Currently, these properties are increasingly difficult to find, as the supply is limited and the demand ever-growing. However, do not despair: our intimate knowledge of the Provençal luxury real estate allows us to regularly offer exceptional bastides in the region.
Sale of Provençal bastide in the Aix region
The Aix-en-Provence area is home to some particularly prestigious bastides from the 17th and 18th centuries. Located in a protected natural setting while still being a few kilometers from Aix, these elegant Provençal residences are delightful sanctuaries of tranquility.
Sale of Provençal bastide in the Luberon
The Luberon is also a favorable area for purchasing a Provençal bastide. Stretching from Cavaillon to Banon, its territory is home to numerous villages, which rank among the most coveted in Provence, such as Lourmarin, Gordes, Ansouis, or Ménerbes.
Sale of Provençal bastide in the Alpilles
Saint-Rémy de Provence, Fontvieille, les Baux-de-Provence, Eygalières... The Alpilles Regional Natural Park shelters charming villages where it is possible to find superb bastides that perfectly reflect the Provençal art of living. Enjoying exceptional locations, these properties meet the expectations of the most discerning buyers.
Can't find the Provençal bastide of your dreams in our online catalog? The experts at our Provençal real estate agencies are always at your disposal to assist you with your project.