An 18th century hamlet with a contemporary spirit,
surrounded by mountains in Drôme Provençale

Well-being

Hawaiian massage practiced by Virginia, experienced masseuse. Her salon is at Dieulefit and she exercises all year round with great success. For Chauvins guests, she offers one to two hour sessions in the houses or at the chalet. The massage with 4 hands is remarkable ...

Yoga retreat

Yoga and Pilates classes in the great outdoors.

Guided hikes

Six hikes are offered from the domain, lasting 20 minutes to 4 hours, accompanied by a naturalist guide.

Our opinion

The adventure begins on a dirt road that snakes its way through the trees. Already, the ground exhales the perfumes of Provence. But we must wait a little for the real surprise: after a last turn, the hamlet appears on a mountainside plateau. Eyes will quickly be drawn to the audacity and radicalism of the architecture, where contemporary inspiration has directly annexed itself to the old walls, giving them a new future. All around, unspoilt nature abounds with an immutable splendour. The domain des Chauvins is in a world of its own, full of resources that can be shared between family, friends, or even tribes.

Property owners’ take the floor

Why did you settle in this region, in this place and not elsewhere ?

Because this unique property enjoys breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, a mild climate and unspoiled nature.

What specific architectural features does your building have ?

The five houses of the estate are built in Drôme stones and solid wood. They have recently been renovated and enlarged with ultra contemporary constructions. With steel and stone cladding, the new ensemble fits harmoniously into the grandiose landscape. Most of the living areas and bedrooms open onto large outdoor terraces, views and landscapes. The architects wanted to implement all the principles of low carbon construction by favouring bio-based materials, sobriety, recycling and renewable energies. Inside, the wood is left largely visible thus limiting the use of paints and other cladding. CLT wood scraps have been reused to make the interior furniture: beds, tables, shelves etc. The pool and the houses run entirely off spring water from the surrounding mountains. A wood-fired boiler produces the energy needed to heat the pool and the five houses of the hamlet.

What is its history ?

It is an ancient hamlet from the 18th century consisting of five stone country houses. Until the end of the fifties, thirty people lived here to farm sheep and cultures.

What can you offer people staying with you ?

Domaine des Chauvins is a private, two hundred-hectare hamlet surrounded by woods and pastures, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Calm and serenity reign over the gentle way of life here. In this relaxing setting, isolated in the mountains and surrounded by lavender, the five houses offer unobstructed views of the mountains and the valley below and have beautiful outdoor spaces: terraces or private gardens. Twenty kilometres of private trails allow guests to discover the area on foot or by mountain bike. The mountain of Miélandre can be reached on foot from the domain des Chauvins. If walking at a fairly sporty pace, the summit (which rises to 1430m) can be reached in two hours and offers a 360 degree view of the pastures of Angela, the mountain of Lance and Mont Ventoux. It is the perfect place for a nature-filled holiday with friends, family or groups. The pool is a place for relaxing and meeting others in the heart of the hamlet. On-site catering is offered, as well as yoga, pilates and massages.

Places you would personally recommend

"La Paillette" in Montjoux is a well-known restaurant in the region, it offers good value for money and a warm welcome. "L’oiseau sur sa branche" in Saoû is a family run restaurant open since 1865, the menu offers French and international cuisine made mostly with local products. For cultural attractions, we recommend the chateau de Grignan, former home of the Countess de Grignan, daughter of Madame de Sevigne. Multiple marked trails, including hiking trails such as the GR 9, the GR 42, the GR 965 or the Tour du pays de Dieulefit (GRP) are nearby. The villages of Poët-Laval, La Garde Adhémar and Montbrun-les-Bains are also worth a visit (they among the hundred most beautiful villages of France) along with the village of Dieulefit known for its potteries, painting exhibitions and concerts.