Between olive trees, white stones and golden light, this corner of the Alpilles appeals to travelers as much as the former presidential couple. Welcome to Fontvieille, a discreet haven of peace where time seems to stand still.
When they are not in Paris or at Cap Nègre, Carla Bruni and Nicolas Sarkozy retreat to a natural setting in the heart of the Alpilles: Fontvieille. It is here that they acquired in 2020 the sumptuous Château d’Estoublon, an exceptional estate of 300 hectares where vines and olive trees create an almost unreal landscape. From their first visit, you will immediately fall in love. “My husband and I fell in love with Estoublonâ€confides Carla Bruni inParis Match . “The place is very inspiring. It concentrates all the magic of the earth and the light of the region. » A place steeped in history, whose origins date back to the Middle Ages, and which has spanned the centuries before becoming today one of the most prestigious areas of the Baux-de-Provence appellation.
The castle itself, completely restored, embodies discreet and warm luxury: 1,500 m², ten elegant suites, a library, a cinema room, a hammam… each room combines 18th century spirit and touches Provençal, in a refined decoration designed like a family home. Outside, time seems to stand still: long avenues of plane trees, fragrant rose gardens, permaculture vegetable garden, heated swimming pool and pétanque court invite you to savor every moment. “This lush countryside of vines, roses and plane trees… it’s my version of the Garden of Eden.”confides Carla Bruni again inVogue  in March 2024. But far from keeping this paradise all to themselves, the couple has chosen to open it to the public: “We thought others might enjoy it like we did.†The place can now be privatized and it is possible to dine there, at La Table d’Estoublon.
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Around it, Fontvieille reveals all its charm: narrow streets lined with stone houses, mills swept by the mistral, hills bathed in sunlight… Here, every moment seems punctuated by the song of cicadas and the scent of wild thyme. An authentic, almost secret Provence, which irresistibly makes you want to slow down.
What to do in Fontvieille?
The Château de Montauban
A true haven of peace for Alphonse Daudet, this castle is today an exciting museum center. There we discover a rich collection of archaeological objects depicting local life in the Middle Ages. Between shaded gardens and exhibition rooms, the visit offers a captivating dive into the history of the village and Provence.
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Alphonse Daudet’s Windmill
Symbol of the village, this mill perched on the heights seems frozen in time. Carefully restored, it immediately evokes the world of Letters from my mill. The view of the Alpilles is spectacular, and the atmosphere, full of poetry, transports visitors to another era.
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The Aqueducts of Barbegal
These Roman remains, unique in Europe, bear witness to ancient hydraulic engineering. Located a few kilometers from the center, they offer an exceptional setting for walks between nature and heritage. There we discover traces of an old flour mill capable of supplying an entire city.
I left him Provencal
Impossible to stay in Fontvieille without strolling through its market. Twice a week, the stalls are overflowing with local products: sun-drenched fruits, olive oils, tapenades, aromatic herbs… A sensory immersion where colors and scents reveal all the richness of the terroir.
Où manger�
The Estoublon Table
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At the heart of the estate, this gourmet restaurant highlights the Provençal terroir in an exceptional setting. Installed in an old wine cellar, it offers cuisine directly inspired by the castle’s organic vegetable garden. Each plate highlights seasonal products with finesse, in an elegant and cozy atmosphere, between exposed stones and a terrace shaded.
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L’Ami Provençal
On the church square, chef Yoann Palmero creates authentic and generous cuisine. He makes a point of working with fresh and local products, in a sincere and gourmet approach. The address seduces with its friendly atmosphere and its attachment to traditional flavors.
Restaurant du Belesso
At the helm, chef Kohei Ohata, awarded a Michelin Plate, offers refined and inventive cuisine. The menus evolve with the seasons and arrivals, highlighting regional products with precision. An elegant table, ideal for a sophisticated gastronomic experience in the heart of the Alpilles.
Où sleep�
La Régalido
Former oil mill turned 4-star hotel, this charming place offers a soft and elegant atmosphere. Between spa, swimming pool and garden, everything invites you to relax in a typically Provençal setting.
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Hotel Belesso
With its large wooded park and numerous activities, this hotel is ideal for a stay with family or friends. The modern, bright rooms ensure optimal comfort after a day of exploring.
The Mas Calao
This intimate guest house seduces with its lush garden and large swimming pool. A real cocoon, perfect for recharging your batteries far from the hustle and bustle, in a peaceful and refined atmosphere.
A real estate market that reflects the location: popular and exclusive
Unsurprisingly, Fontvieille attracts more and more buyers looking for authenticity and the sweetness of life. The price of houses can reach almost €8,000 per m² for the most prestigious properties, with an average of around €4,000, according to the site seloger.com. The apartments range between €1,500 and more than €4,000 per m². A market supported by the intact charm of the village, its ideal location in the heart of the Alpilles… and its aura reinforced by emblematic figures like Carla Bruni and Nicolas Sarkozy.
A place where we come for a few days… and where we rarely leave without dreaming of staying there forever.
