Avignon, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Address available on request

A small country residence with its little hut and terraced gardens on the heights of Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, opposite the Palais des Papes. The property is located in the heart of a peaceful part of the highly sought-after little town of Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, a holiday resort for cardinals during the Avignon Papacy from and now a privileged residential area near the 'Cité des Papes' (papal city). 
The gated complex of a contemporary residence stands out from the Chemin de Monteau which, as its name suggests, leads up to the heights of the village. At the end of the street, there is a private car park: to the right of the large two-car garage, a narrow path leads up to a metal wicket gate. 
From here, a flight of uneven steps, punctuated by landings, leads to the house and the 'mazet' (hut) below, surrounded by greenery. 
The grounds are laid out in 'restanques' (terraces), the largest featuring a small house built against the rock, sheltered from the mistral wind - a major advantage in this region - and from prying eyes. It is extended by a terrace shaded by a period wisteria-covered arbour. 
Continuing on through the pines and hackberries, there is a mazet which has been converted into a lodge, with an adjoining terrace and shady courtyard, overlooking the roofs of the houses at the bottom of the town. The owner, an architect, restored and remodelled the dwelling presenting a facade with simple, evenly spaced openings. On the eastern side, it features a modern extension with large picture windows and glass doors, topped by a roof terrace.