Or how about Tourtour? A charming village in the Var, which true to its name, has ancient towers dating back to the 11th century. There is a pretty central square, welcoming cafés, restaurants and shops, and it's no surprise it is classed as one of the most beautiful villages in France. For €245,000 you can get a three-bedroom villa in a private wooded estate with pool and tennis courts.
Head back behind Aix-en-Provence towards the Luberon in the heart of Provence, and for even greater value, look east past the Verdon area into the Alpes-Maritime national park. “For just over €100,000 you can get a small one-bedroom home that is close to ski resorts, and just over an hour from the coast,” says Sascha Jenner, local estate agent based in the popular hub of Saint-Vallierde-Thiey. For €250,000 it’s easy to find a three-bedroom house with a garden.
In the ski resort of Greolières-les-Neiges you can get a 3-bedroom timber chalet with pool and stunning views in the mountains of the French Riviera, 48km to the sandy beaches of Cannes.
Last but no means least, the lovely picturesque ancient village of Cipières is also worth a look. Perched on a rocky ridge high above the Loup river valley, with a view north and east across to the Montagne du Cheiron, it offers village properties for under €250,000.
www.frenchestateagents.com for expert advice and to browse a huge range of properties for sale in the Cote d’Azur and all over France.