Lorgues and Cotignac, a cosmopolitan Provence
Radia Amar - 02 October 2014
Between the Mediterranean and the Gorges du Verdon, the Upper Var plays host to many exceptional villages. Beautiful landscapes, charming buildings, total peace and quiet define this region so highly-prized by international visitors of discerning taste.
A 90-minute drive from the international airports of Nice and Marseille and a little more than an hour from the TGV station of Aix-en-Provence, Lorgues and Cotignac enjoy reputations which extend well beyond the borders of France. Church buildings, historic monuments, fountains, narrow picturesque streets, châteaux, good restaurants, charming hotels, crafts and an art of living blending elegance and authenticity comprise the assets of this countrified region whose remarkable natural sites offer scenery conducive to contemplation.
A village of genuine charm nestling beneath a cliff in the midst of nature, Cotignac has doubled its population figures over the past four decades. Sophie Carrère, a specialist on the area, took over the Cotignac Immobilier agency eight years ago. “The accommodation available mainly consists of houses built from the 1980’s to the present day. Some being with old-world charm at the heart of the village appeal to Scandinavian clients fond of old stone. These buyers also insist on properties within walking distance of the centre, and thus the restaurants and shops.” A cosmopolitan village, 32 nationalities are represented here among the lucky owners of properties in Cotignac, with a majority of Belgians, Dutch, Swedes, English, Germans, Norwegians and even Australians, who have all fallen in love with this centre for Catholic pilgrimages. “Cotignac is often described as “love at first sight” ; furthermore, the commune proposes enjoyable events from Easter onwards : a movie festival, outdoor theatre, concerts...”. Village houses range from 180,000 to 200,000 €. For villas on the outskirts of town, benefitting from generous outdoor areas with swimming pools, one can expect to pay from 500,000 €. Among her most recent sales, Sophie Carrère mentions a 3-bedroomed house in 4,000 m2 of grounds with a pool. Acquired by a Belgian client (after some bargaining) for 450,000 €, it is typical of today’s market. “Although 2014 seems to be more productive than 2013 in terms of the number of transactions, we are still seeing a lack of balance between supply and low demand. Prices are too high for the budgets of local buyers and foreigners seem more reticent about moving to France”.
Less frequent international enquiries are also being noticed in Lorgues, where Rob Brink opened the New Home agency in 2008. “Foreign buyers just aren’t interested !” declares this expert who, especially since September, has seen his clientele expanding thanks to young retirees from the Paris region. With budgets mostly ranging from 600,000 to 700,000 €, they are looking for recent villas with 3 or 4 bedrooms in grounds of 4,000 to 5,000 m2. “The choice is all theirs. Many properties offering large lounges, modern kitchens, vast garages and even pool-houses are up for sale at prices which are now reasonable.” As for luxurious stone properties in parks of several acres, proposing prestigious appointments and annexes, they can be found from 1 to 2 million euros. One such villa offers living space of 450 m2 on 12.5 acres of land. With a panoramic view, tennis court and large swimming pool, it will put a smile on the face of a buyer ready to part with 1,800,000 €. Numerous building plots are also for sale : for 4,000 to 5,000 m2 of land, expect to pay 200,000 € to treat yourself to a chunk of Provence.