Maison de Belles Lettres is a luxury rental property in the heart of Menerbes, the charming, peaceful village immortalized in Peter Mayle's A Year in Provence. Once the village post office, the protected building has been elegantly restored and stylishly furnished by its current owner. There is a courtyard, a rooftop terrace, access to a nearby swimming pool and incredible views of the Luberon Valley from every bedroom and bathroom. The house can accommodate up to ten people: a group of friends, a mix of couples and kids, or one couple hosting an open house in Provence for a few weeks.

The ground floor is decorated in warm tones reminiscent of the safre stone so prevalent in the village. Its spacious interior has been tastefully refashioned in a sophisticated, contemporary style that enhances the original architecture, with walls of brick, terracotta and even wine bottles.

The spacious open-plan living and dining area includes a fireplace surrounded by generous Lloyd Loom sofas and art deco armchairs. Artifacts from the owner's travels include Italian prints and lithographs, Vietnamese contemporary art and Provencal paintings.

The kitchen represents the simplicity of Provencal living, with copper pots and rustic furnishings, it is perfect for lazy breakfasts. Opening onto the courtyard through glass doors, the kitchen has a pantry and is well equipped with a Smeg pro range and oven, dishwasher and an American-style refrigerator freezer with ice maker. There is a WC nearby.

An impressive beech staircase leads up to the middle level with its wonderful countryside views. The bedrooms are painted in cool pastels and designed with comfort in mind. Hand embroidered Frette linens from Italy are provided along with Provencal toiletries from L'Occitane.

The first master bedroom has a king-sized bed that can be separated into two single beds. The ensuite bath, offering views of the Luberon, has a bathtub shower combination and WC.

The second master bedroom has a queen-sized bed and ensuite bath, also with Luberon views, with a bathtub, shower and WC.

Also on the middle level is a comfortable library furnished with armchairs. This area overlooks the courtyard. There is a backgammon table too.

The upper level, with ancient exposed beams, has three additional bedrooms, a spacious living area with contemporary furniture and access to the rooftop terrace.

The third master bedroom has a queen-sized bed and ensuite bath with bathtub, sink and a separate WC.

The fourth and fifth bedrooms have king-sized beds which can be separated into two single beds if preferred. These two rooms share a shower room with a separate WC.

The upper level living room has a stereo with CD player, TV with satellite reception, DVD player and an excellent selection of English-language and foreign films.

The rooftop terrace, with dining table and chairs, is the perfect place for pastis at sunset. From here you can see Gordes, Roussillon, Lumieres, Goult and Mont Ventoux.