Close to the beaches of the Var yet far enough inland to feel firmly in the countryside, the Commanderie de Peyrassol stretches across 850 hectares of organic vineyards, forests and Mediterranean scrubland surrounding a former 13th-century Templar commandery, now one of Provence’s most distinctive estates. Under the direction of its owner, collector Philippe Austruy, nearly 80 contemporary artworks are scattered throughout the gardens, woodlands and wine cellars, transforming the estate into a vast open-air museum.
At a time when wine estates compete to offer spectacular spas and suites, La Rouvière embraces discretion at the heart of the estate, tucked away behind umbrella pines and olive trees. This former hunting lodge, now a country house, welcomes guests in just five rooms and three apartments, creating the delightful impression of staying with friends who happen to have a vineyard, an art collection and hectares of countryside for a garden.
Days drift by with lengths in the pool, walks among the artworks, rosé tastings and naps in the shade of the holm oaks. Overlooking the vines, the Michelin-starred Chez Jeannette celebrates produce from the estate’s kitchen garden and organic farm, while Bistrot de Lou offers a more relaxed take on Provence, with wood-fired grills, garden vegetables and convivial summer tables.
In 2026, the Philippe Austruy Collection at the Commanderie de Peyrassol celebrates its 25th anniversary. One of the most significant private collections in southern France, it extends from the sculpture park and art centre to the reserve, now also open to visitors. This new presentation reveals the breadth and diversity of a collection assembled since the 1980s. The estate can be explored in a few hours, but we highly recommend staying overnight to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere and take a walk in the early morning or evening during the summer.
→ La Rouvière, 83340 Flassans-sur-Issole. Info and booking: peyrassol.com