Description
It is said that Napoleon Bonaparte was one of the many illustrious guests to have visited this historic home over the centuries. In some ways, little has changed – you can still appreciate a wealth of original features as well as gorgeous views of the Rhône river from some of the bedrooms. In more recent times, a swimming pool has been added to the one-hectare walled garden.
By the banks of the Rhône, how wonderful to be a short stroll from the historic heart of Beaucaire, a traditional Provençal town a little away from the usual tourist trail yet an ideal base for visiting the likes of Avignon, Arles, Pont du Gard and Nimes. Just step out of Maison Napoleon’s grounds, pass locals playing boules next door beneath the plane trees or walk along the river’s edge until you reach Beaucaire’s old town, attractive marina and atmospheric restaurant terraces. The owners recommend wandering to nearby Château de Beaucaire for the most idyllic sunrises and sunsets.
The maison is steeped in history, originally built in the late 17th century by a wealthy Provençal family who most likely created it for a noble wedding. In 1733 it was sold to a bourgeois family and played various roles over the centuries including being a warehouse for goods passing Beaucaire and as stables for horses ascending boats on the Rhône.
Its most recent owners have created a such a welcoming and handsome home. Admire the arched ceilings of the entrance hall, prepare breakfasts in the pretty kitchen, experience the grandeur of the dining room and relax in the upper floor salon. There are five first-floor double bedrooms and one bathroom here including an especially beautiful master bedroom with an extra-large bed and air-conditioning.
The adjacent guest house is included in the 14-person price with its delightful lounge, little kitchen, two bathrooms and two impressive bedrooms upstairs via the well-trod historic stairs. There is air-conditioning throughout the guest house and both bedrooms feature king-size double beds, one also with twin beds on a mezzanine level above.
Another great highlight of Maison Napoleon is the one-hectare walled garden with ancient trees and lawns alongside so many mature plants and flowers – it feels like a real privilege to have to have much space close to a town. Find a corner for reading in the Provençal sunshine, enjoying a peaceful morning coffee or evening aperitif and dining al-fresco with family and friends.
What’s more, the garden’s swimming pool is just right for warm summer afternoon after a morning pottering around the local markets of Beaucaire and Tarascon or exploring further afield with gems such as Uzès, Saint Rémy and Les Baux-de-Provence so near. /n Security deposit /n £2000 charged to client's credit card as a pre-authorisation at least 2 weeks prior to arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. /n Arrival time /n 4.00 p.m. /n Departure time /n 10.00 a.m. /n Energy costs included? /n Yes. /n Linen & towels included? /n Yes, changed once for stays over 7 nights. /n Pets welcome? /n On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. If accepted, a pet supplement of €10 per pet per day will apply (payable locally). /n Other Ts and Cs /n Please note a caretaker lives on site in a first-floor apartment in a third building. /n Other Ts and Cs /n Air-conditioning is only featured in the master bedroom (in the main house) and in the guest house. /n Other Ts and Cs /n The vibrant Beaucaire festival takes place in late July (usually starting 21st July) during which bulls run through the streets and other festivities and events take place. This time of year is not suitable for guests seeking peace and tranquillity as the bullring is just behind the property. /n Other Ts and Cs /n The 10-person rate includes the main house only (5 bedrooms and 1 bathroom) whilst the 16-person rate also includes guest house. When the 10-person rate is booked, the owners usually stay in the guest house. /n Other Ts and Cs /n Weddings and any special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. Stag/hen parties are not allowed.
/n Other Ts and Cs /n A cot and highchair can be requested. /n Changeover day /n Saturday. All other changeover days on request. /n End of stay cleaning included? /n Yes. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. /n Smoking Allowed? /n No. /n Minimum stay /n 7 nights. All other durations on request. /n Heating costs included? /n Yes. /n Tax /n French Visitors Tax is included. /n Pool towels included? /n Yes. /n Pool opening dates? /n Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming.
