For lovers of Downton Abbey, the locations that the period drama boast are one of it’s biggest drawing cards. And if you’re a fan that dreams of one day stepping foot into Highclere Castle itself, the franchise’s sequel has just upped the ante.
With the series’ second film, Downton Abbey: A New Era, on the horizon, creator Julian Fellowes has transported the historical drama across the pond to the South of France. For the second instalment, the story will follow Dowager Countess, played by Maggie Smith, who has inherited a beautiful abode from a mysterious man that she knew years prior.
But what’s so special about the property? Well, fans of the franchise can actually live like Lady Mary and Henry with the sprawling property available to rent.
Named Villa Rocabella, the home is a mansion from the Belle Époque and located in Le Pradet, which is about an hour west of St. Tropez. The grounds spread over three hectares (30,000 square metres) and the home itself boasts a Mediterranean-inspired interior, designed by Danish architect, Hans-Georg Tersling back in the late 19th Century.
The property was first a literary saloon for artists looking for a unique living arrangement, however, it became a holiday home for children after World War II. By 2000, architect Patrice Nourissat began renovating the home into what it is today.
For those interested in temporarily moving to the French abode, then be prepared to share the space with 42 others. The entire villa can not only house that many people, but it boasts three distinct houses dotted across the grounds.
From extravagant reception rooms and a pétanque court to a swimming pool and gym, there’s really no need to ever leave the estate, especially since it also comes with a chef, a butler, a barman and a housekeeper. So if you’re looking to fulfil your dreams of being a Downton Abbey lady, now’s your chance.
If you’ve been waiting to invite over 40 of your family, friends or acquaintances for a French getaway, then god speed. But for those with a smaller guest list, you have the option to vacation in a single guest room within the house, or hire out the cottage (which can host up to 10 people) or the Bastide (which can host up to 15). And saving the best until last, every person staying at Villa Rocabella can enjoy a French apéritif hour between 7pm and 8pm every night.
Keen to draw the carriages and head to Villa Rocabella? You can rent the estate out from approximately AUD $707 per night at Booking.com here.
In the meantime, take a look at the sprawling estate below in preparation for the release of Downton Abbey: A New Era on April 28 in cinemas nationwide.
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