Luxury Real Estate

By: Nicola Christinger of Home Hunts

MUCH MORE THAN JUST AN OLIVE

This month our editor, Nicola Christinger visits Carol Drinkwater, the actress and author who owns an Olive farm in the south of France and opens the door on buying an olive farm.

Driving up the approach to Appassionata, the olive farm owned by Carol Drinkwater and her husband Michel, my eyes were fixed on the scenery. Not for the beautiful surroundings or variety of trees – but for Quashia – her loyal gardener, such a prominent character in her books!

Having worked for many years in newspapers and television, meeting celebrities is something enjoyable, not nerve-racking. However, after having read all of the three books in the Olive Farm trilogy, I was more intrigued than ever before. Standing on the front terrace, overlooking the Cote d’azur and out across the Mediterranean, it is easy to understand why this farm prompted her to write such vibrant books. Carol is probably best known for her role as Helen Herriot in the BBC series “All creatures Great and Small”. More recently she has achieved bestselling status with her much loved memoirs of life on an olive farm in the hills behind Cannes.

She is the epitomy of a generous, welcoming hostess. Nothing is too much trouble and her warmth and personality are instantly apparent. She has lived in France for many years and believes that many British still aspire to follow the dream of moving to the South. “I do get letters all the time about people wanting to change their lives but when I wrote the Olive Farm trilogy I actually thought that I would be appealing to the more middle- aged market but what is extraordinary is that there are so many letters I get from young girls 20- 25 years old, who see me as a role model. Perhaps this is because I am not afraid to go off on my own and do what I want. But I never thought of myself as a role model.”

As we wander through the terraces of her olive groves, I ask her about The Olive Tree, her latest book. This is a personal journey she undertakes alone, to the heart of the Mediterranean, to delve into the secrets and history of the olive tree. It follows Carol’s absorbing and colourful journey across the wilds of Spain, Morocco, Algeria and Italy in a continuation of her passionate search of the routes that olive cultivation has taken over the centuries. Deeply troubled by the challenges that her own, beloved South of France farm is experiencing – virulent pests, premature ripening of fruits, the necessity for excessive use of chemicals and changing patterns in the world’s climate – Carol’s quest for knowledge and new approaches, using both ancient and modern methods, takes her on this remarkable journey.

Before starting the previous book, The Olive Route, she went to see UNESCO and explained that she wanted to maybe do something like an Olive Tree Heritage Trail. Their initial reaction was not very forthcoming but she went ahead and carried on with her travels. After the book was finished, she sent them a copy and they then jumped at the chance of having Carol work with them. Together their aim is to create peace within the region and honor the heritage of this sacred tree.

“I have been all round the Mediterranean, living, breathing olives and their history. Despite almost being killed in Beruit, where she narrowly escaped a major car bombing several years ago whilst researching, she remains positive. “Whatever happens in my life, it is a journey that no-one can take away from me. Maybe I must have a guardian angel, or olive tree fairy, watching over me!”

Does she have a favourite place in the South of France? “A few” she replies. “But really the one place I love to go to is the Camargue. It fascinates me. Whenever I need to chill out and be by myself, I head to the bird sanctuary down there.”

As one magazine quoted “no-one in the world knows more about olives than Carol Drinkwater.” She laughs and dismisses it as just a good line, not true technically, but she does admit to having on the ground experience.

Owning an olive grove or a property with a substantial amount of olives trees is without a doubt demanding but according to Carol, it is a fabulous challenge.

“Perhaps, of all the unexpected twists and turns in my life, finding myself the owner of an Olive Farm tops the list. Who would have thought the power of such a small, green berry? They demand hard work if you really want to farm them, but the pride and pleasure after the harvest has been achieved and the first dribbles of green-gold oil comes through is immeasurable. Gathering with friends is also a time-honoured tradition and great fun, particularly when the work is done and the first cork has been drawn to celebrate!”

There are tight regulations for those wishing to be attributed to the A.O.C. which is a designation of Premium Quality. To be accepted by the A.O.C. is extremely rigorous and the mark is a certification that the variety of plant (olive tree) has its origin in a specific geographical area. The government closely controls the farming methods and final quality of all products wishing to bottle and use the A.O.C. label.

As I left the olive farm I remembered a line from her previous book, The Olive Route: “The tree of eternity. The tree of light. The tree of peace.” There is definitely much more to this story than just an olive and somehow I am left with a feeling of wanting to know more.

We have five copies of The Olive Tree by Carol Drinkwater to give away to the first five people who email – nicola@home-hunts.com

The Olive Tree is published in paperback by Phoenix at £7.99, along with the Olive Farm Trilogy and The Olive Route. Books are available to order from all good bookshops or www.amazon.co.uk.

HERE ARE A SELECTION OF OLIVE GROVE PROPERTIES ACROSS SOUTHERN FRANCE:

Nested in the heart of the Alpilles, (below) 10 minutes from St Remy de Provence, this beautiful property has been renovated to a very high standard and has 350m2 living space with 1.3 hectares with its own olive grove. Price: 1,500,000 euros

Superbe Domaine near to Eygalieres (below) in a dominant position with 10 hectares of land and olive groves. The property was renovated by a famous local architect and is currently 9 appartments, making it an ideal investment for rental income or else for a large family. Price 1,980,000 euros.

This beautiful property is situated in the Luberon in Saturnin les Apt on a land of approx. 2.5acres providing about a hundred of olive trees. View of the Luberon in a quiet environment at only 1km from the village with all amenities. Price 1,640,000 euros.

Also in the same area,of Saturin les Apt is a remarkable C18th Bastide on a land of 12, 5acres with olives trees and fruit trees. Price 3,300,000 euros

Towards the provence coast in St Cyr sur Mer this exceptional property with sea view, is in the heart of a vineyard , approx. 450m2 liveable space, on an hectare of enclosed landscaped grounds, with more than 220 olive trees. Price 1,850,000 euros.

If you prefer a more contemporary property but still want to enjoy these beautiful trees, then this stunning villa does just that. Situated in Uzès on one floor it has 4 large bedrooms with classic stone paved floors throughout. Stunning interior design surrounded by a garden of approx 90 olive trees on 3720m2. Price 735,000 euros.

For more information on any of the above properties or for details of similar properties please contact nicola@home-hunts.com

By Heidi Warth of Warth & Properties

Region: Pollensa - Formentor

Construction Year: 2009

Plot: 8,564 m²

Living Area: 800 m²

Number of Bedrooms: 7

Price: on request

Exclusive charming estate with a prime location South facing. The living area is distributed over 3 floors. Ground floor: attractive entry foyer, beautiful living/dining room, impressive modern kitchen, winter lounge, 1 en suite bedroom, guest toilet. First floor: library, 3 large bedrooms with bathroom and dressing room and 2 additional bedrooms each with a bathroom. Basement: kitchen, TV lounge, spa and gym, 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, laundry.

Extraordinary construction quality and top technical equipment, comfortable layout, spacious light-flooded rooms, modern interior design, underfloor heating, reversible air conditioning, large double-glazed windows, natural stone flooring in all the house, beautiful finish materials and works (stone, steel, iron, glass and wood), high ceiling, Bulthaup kitchen, wine-cooler, Dornbracht y Kaldewei fittings, Floss and Fontana Arte lighting-system. Alarm.

Spacious inviting terraces with summer kitchen and barbecue, big kitchen. Marvellous Mediterranean garden and green areas with old tree-population. This fabolous estate has been buil 1960 and totally renovated in 2008/2009. Idyllic quiet location, privacy and good access. Large parking area for several cars.

By Kitty J. Laios of Kitty J. Laios Real Estate

Two wonderful island homes at the highly desirable location of Agios Sostis, on a large plot of land. Agios Sostis is known for one of the best sandy beaches of the Mediterranean.

An ideal proposition for a large family, two or more friendly families or an investment opportunity as one of the two villas can be rented out throughout the summer season.

Built in the traditional island style with stone built areas and white washed walls, the villas offer absolute relaxation as well as ideal entertainment areas such as the outdoor bar and pergola.

The houses, which are identical, are on two levels with the large reception area and kitchen with informal dining area on the ground floor, as well as the master bedroom. On the 1^st floor there are another 3 sunny bedrooms with bathrooms, and one of the bedrooms has its own attic. There is also a guest house with its own kitchen and bathroom, which sleeps 4.

Total grounds area: 5400m2

Main house: 380m2

1 master bedroom with 1 double bed

1 bedroom with 1 double bed

1 bedroom with 1 double bed and attic

1 bedroom with 2 single beds

Reception area with fireplace

Hall

Informal dining area

Large fully equipped kitchen

3 bathrooms

Fireplace

Garage

Garden

Guest House: 75m2

2 bedrooms with 1 double bed

Kitchen

Bathroom

Independent Entrance

· Both villas offer a/c, satellite tv and are fully furnished,

· Shared amenities: swimming pool, bbq with outdoor dining area, garage, garden.

Price: 4.000.000€

By Serge Cowan

Cyprus offers a superb tax system whereby foreign pensions will only ever be taxed at 5 percent – maximum. “This is exceptional,” says Serge Cowan, MD at Unique Living, specialist property agents offering supreme luxury and lifestyle homes around the world including luxury homes for sale in Limassol.



“When looking for a retirement home, one has to consider not just what the country has to offer but also where you stand financially. Cyprus must come high on people’s agenda because it has so many benefits”.

In some countries you could be paying tax in your home country on pension income of 40 percent or even higher, so the 5 percent is something that really needs to be taken into consideration when buying abroad.

Cyprus also has many other benefits: good year-round weather, low crime rate, you drive on the left, a cosmopolitan atmosphere, quality golf courses, European Union membership and superbly located at the east end of the Mediterranean, providing convenient access to the Middle East and Far East as well as Europe.

In addition, the Government of Southern Cyprus is making big strides to be a serious contender in the world of “movers and shakers.” Developments are increasingly for the luxury market, and soon to be released is a Marina Resort in Limassol. This is to include a manmade island for residential villas, plus there is rumoured to be a 5-star hotel and berths for 600 privately owned boats. All of which is to be in the heart of the old town of Limassol and its rapidly growing commercial and business centre.

“Southern Cyprus is rapidly changing and those who are astute can be part of this altering picture – one that is creating a supremely elegant and sophisticated island to appeal to discerning buyers from around the world. A shrewd buyer looking at the current market place will not be disappointed with Cyprus and in particular luxury real estate in Limassol,” concludes Serge.


Editor’s Note:
Founded in 2002 by Serge Cowan and Sophie Hammond, Unique Living’s portfolio of luxury properties for sale includes new property developments, resale property, villas, townhouses, penthouses and apartments in prime locations around the world. Unique Living is headquartered in London and it is a member of Who's Who in Luxury Real Estate. Let’s see, in the past week or so we’ve received blog entries on Costa Rica, Mexico, the Caribbean, Australia, Vanuatu, France and now Cyprus. This is very exciting. Keep checking the Luxury Real Estate Blog for great information like this. Also, feel free to submit your own blog entries for consideration. The photo of the Limassol, Cyprus shoreline is from www.flickr.com/photos/mamchenkov/281322233 and it is the copyright of Leonid Mamchenkov.

By Dr. Carl Peralta

Giorgio Armani, together with his super yacht “Main”, spent a lovely holiday in Malta. For more information on his visit, read the article in the Times of Malta.



Although Malta is not like the Greek islands, St. Tropez, Sardinia & Monte Carlo, it is a unique, picturesque place set right bang in the middle of the clean Mediterranean Sea.

Other famous personalities come along together with their super yachts, such as Roman Abramovich (Chelsea FC owner) with his 114-metre “Pelorus” and Tom Perkins (Danielle Steele’s ex-husband) with his 88-metre “Maltese Falcon” built by Perini Navi!


Editor’s Note:
Dr. Carl Peralta founded 77 Great Estates in 2003. He is a member of the global Luxury Real Estate network. Business being his chief interest, Dr. Peralta has successfully co-organized many large-scale entertainment events since 1995. It sounds like Giorgio Armani couldn’t stay away from Malta. Actually, I wrote an editorial on luxury yachting communities in the spring 2008 issue of LuxuryRealEstate.com Magazine. Very cool! The size of these yachts Carl mentions in this blog entry is incredible. You’d need a huge dock at your luxury home or a nice luxury marina to park them.

By Robert Lockard

Malta, a lovely island just south of Italy in the Mediterranean, was the site of the Malta International Fashion Show on July 5, 2008. This impressive show attracted top Italian designers who submitted their work for display by top models. These high-profile designers included Giorgio Armani, Versace, Salvatore Ferragamo, Enrico Coveri and many others.

You can read the full article by Fiona Galea Debono entitled “Gozo on the catwalk in international fashion show” in the Times of Malta. Dr. Carl Peralta, founder and President of 77 Great Estates, pointed this story out to me. 77 Great Estates is a member of the global LuxuryRealEstate.com network.

Malta is becoming known as a great getaway for luxury seekers. Its world-class events and luxury properties bring a diverse crowd of vacationers and new residents. Opportunities abound on this pleasant island!


Editor’s Note:
Robert Lockard is the Public Relations & Media Specialist with LuxuryRealEstate.com. I am Robert. I create all of Luxury Real Estate’s newsletters, write the editorials in LuxuryRealEstate.com Magazine and much more. Dr. Carl Peralta founded 77 Great Estates in 2003. Business being his chief interest, Dr. Peralta has successfully co-organized many large-scale entertainment events since 1995. Feel free to share your ideas and blog entries for inclusion on the LuxuryRealEstate.com Blog. The photo above is from www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20080523/local/international-fashion-goes-to-gozo and it is the copyright of Darrin Zammit Lupi.

By Jean-Yves Piton

History, the country of the Cathars, châteaux, sun, Mediterranean, Pyrenees, good food, vines, Canal du Midi and enjoyment of life? All of this is in the Aude. Straddling the Black Mountains, the Pyrenees, the plains of the Lauragais and the Mediterranean Sea, the Aude – a section of the Languedoc Roussillon region – has more than 310,000 inhabitants spread over 6,200 square kilometers. With its exceptional climate, varied countryside and fascinating history, the country of the Cathars invites you to learn more about it.

Carcassonne
Carcassonne is the only town in Europe fortified by a double enclosure that is still inhabited. The oldest parts of it date back to the 6th century BC. This magnificent fortress has been classed as an UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997 and is without doubt the most beautiful jewel in the south of France. 2,500 years of history to be discovered...

Today, the best way to visit Carcassonne is to wander up and down its little streets and, even better, to do so with a guide. There are, however, certain sights which shouldn’t be missed: the Basilica of Saint Nazaire, begun in 925 AD and completed in the first half of the 12th century; the château, built in the 12th century by the Trencavel family, Viscounts of Carcassonne; the Porte Narbonnaise, the gateway recognizable by its two huge towers in the shape of a spur; and finally the Lices (Lists), the area between the two enclosures which used to slope up the hill but was leveled in the 13th century.

The Canal du Midi
14 years to build, 15,000 workmen, 350 works of art (bridges, locks...), 240 kilometers long, this is the work of Pierre Paul Riquet, who began in 1663 in the reign of Louis XIV. The Canal Royal du Languedoc, today called the Canal du Midi, was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. It was built to link the Atlantic to the Mediterranean and is an exceptional architectural achievement to be enjoyed on boat cruises, cycling along the tow-path or simply strolling in the shade of the 300-year-old plane trees.

Medieval sites
There are a multitude of medieval sites to visit in the Aude. From Cathar castles to abbeys, from fortified villages to underground caves, not to mention churches and museums – all bear witness to the area’s rich and varied history.

The Mediterranean
As soon as the sun arrives, the Mediterranean awaits you just 60 kilometers away. You can spend the weekend or even longer on some of the most beautiful beaches in the “Golfe du Lion” either via the motorway or the very pretty road through the Corbieres.

The Pyrenees
The ski resorts of the Pyrenees are just over an hour away. These resorts are just as beautiful in the summer as they are in the winter. In addition to skiing, they offer snowshoe walking, sleigh rides, horse riding, fishing, climbing and rafting.

The Aude
The Aude is also an important wine-making area, producing a wide variety of very different appellations.

First, the oldest sparkling wine in the world (dating back to 1531) is Blanquette de Limoux, using Mauzac, Chardonnay and Chenin grape varieties. It is aged in bottles and is drunk as an aperitif or at the end of a meal.

The vineyards of Limoux also produce a fabulous Chardonnay. A large festival called “Toques et Clochers” takes place each year around mid-April. Some of the greatest chefs and vintners in the world come to this to buy oak barrels of the Chardonnay at auction. The profits from this go towards restoring local church towers (clochers).

The Corbières, with its narrow valleys cutting through the hilly landscape, is home to many well-known wine producers. Its reputation dates back to the time of the Roman occupation and its wines are full-bodied and spicy. They improve with age.

The Minervois is one of the oldest Mediterranean wine areas. Its name comes from the ancient city of Minerve, a Roman stronghold built in honor of the Goddess of Wisdom. Its wines range from the exceptional Muscat de Saint Jean de Minervois, to be drunk with “foie gras” or as an aperitif, to steely whites to accompany seafood and reds and roses to go with barbecues and main courses, and even “cassoulet” for the more spicy wines.

Fitou is a very dense area on the edge of the Mediterranean that produces full-bodied wines with flavors characteristic of the most famous “grands crus.” Wines to be kept and to accompany richer dishes.

Cabardès, on the chalky slopes of the south face of the Black Mountains, combines Cabernet, Merlot, Cot, Syrah and Grenache grape varieties. These wines are known for their aromatic complexity and balance.

And finally the Malepere, a wild area of stony terraces and gentle hillsides, produces wines that are strong, supple and generous with flavors of vanilla and red fruits. Merlot, Cabernet, Grenache and Syrah are combined to make wines to accompany red meats, cheeses and casseroles.


Editor’s Note:
Jean-Yves Piton is the Global Services Membership Manager for LuxuryRealEstate.com. He assists Bente Madtsen, the Director of Global Services, in expanding the LuxuryRealEstate.com brand into even more countries around the world. Wow, this is a long blog entry. There are lots of great details in here about southern France. R. Chayla Immobilier is a member of LuxuryRealEstate.com located in Carcassonne, France.

By Dr. Carl Peralta

MTV has yet again chosen Malta as one of the destinations for its summer concerts. This year’s concert was held five minutes away from the 77 Great Estates office in Valletta.

International music artists, including Enrique Iglesias, Lady GaGa, One Republic, The Kooks and N.E.R.D., rocked thousands of foreigners who flew over for this amazing concert in the middle of the Mediterranean.

The artists fell in love with Malta’s sun-drenched island and we are sure LuxuryRealEstate.com’s clients will enjoy Malta, too. We will be more than happy to assist LuxuryRealEstate.com clients to purchase/lease a property in Malta. For more information about the event, please visit: http://isleofmtv.mtv.co.uk/.


Editor’s Note:
Dr. Carl Peralta founded 77 Great Estates in 2003. Business being his chief interest, Dr. Peralta has successfully co-organized many large-scale entertainment events since 1995. Events like this are great for bringing international attention to luxury hotspots. The celebrities at this concert, and I’m sure many of the fans, have received a taste for the beautiful island of Malta, and I hope that this will provide some excellent incentives for them to return. Feel free to share your positive events like this in the LuxuryRealEstate.com Blog.