Autumn Colours in Gascony

A glorious garden in Gascony in the southwest of France reminiscent of the Tuscan scenery. It was designed and made ​​by the owner, Madelaine, in terraces to link with the surrounding nature.












This sculpture by Joachim Van Den Hurk echoes the verticality of the cypress. The iron rod on the top turns in the wind.







Photos Perdereau Mon Jardin & Ma Maison.
All images from here.

Anti Stress Holiday Home

Today I just feel like plopping into this pool and float for a while. Then I'd make a point of leaving my wet footsteps on the kitchen floor. Finally, I'd take a nap on that cool bed. Am a bit tired, you guessed.
































BTW it's in Formentera, Spain.
All images from here.

Classic Style in Marbella

Good Monday morning, my friends. To start the week let's go off to Marbella, in Spain. This classic style house, surrounded by olive trees, has privileged views of both the mountains and The Mediterranean Sea.



































I'd like to thank you all for your lovely comments. I always look forward to reading them and I love visiting your blogs. Hope you enjoyed today's tour. See you tomorrow.
All images from here.

Christmas at Château d’Ansouis

The Château d’Ansouis has been standing for over a thousand years, overlooking the village of Ansouis and the Valley of the Aigues, in France.

The history of the castle is marked at the beginning of the XIII century by Elzear de Sabran and his wife Dauphine - or Delphine. Their wealth did not stop them from devoting their lives to God and helping the poor. Elzear was canonized in 1369 and Dauphine was beatified. Since then, every year in September, a procession celebrates the mystical love and the love of the humble they incarnate.

Gérard and Frédérique Rousset-Rouvière acquired Château d’Ansouis in January 2008 and appointed designer Jean-Jacques Bourgeois to renovate its interiors.

These photographs show the Château, ready for Christmas.







Beautiful stone stairs.


Under a large chestnut tree, the terrace overlooks a boxwood garden.




To continue with tradition, on Christmas eve, before midnight mass, a light meatless meal is served in the kitchen. The table is set on three layers of white tablecloths, which are successively removed during the meal, and adorned with three large white candles representing the Trinity.






A variety of thirteen desserts are served, in remembrance of the Last Supper, Jesus surrounded by his twelve apostles.


This eighteenth century Provencal cupboard maintains its original green patina.




This 18th century piece of furniture is called a "love letter" and was made for just that: love letter writing. It also served as fireplace screen.




Octagonal alcove on the second floor.

All images from here.