If you can tear yourself away from the swimming pool there is plenty to do and see locally: the Luberon's picturesque villages, the Rustrel Colorado, the network of nature trails and cycle paths - one of the best ways of exploring the region is by bike. There’s hot-air ballooning, hand-gliding, horse-riding, tennis and canoeing as well as an adventure park for the kids...

To the West, along the N100, is the market town of L'isle-sur-la-Sorgue (which every Sunday plays host to the best antiques market outside Paris), the city of Avignon (of bridge and papal palace fame) and the vineyards of Chateaux-Neuf-du-Pape (where you can slurp, gargle and sniff your way through the region's finest wines).

Head North and you'll reach the Mont Ventoux, sunset at the summit is highly recommended.

To the East lie the foothills of the Alps, fantastic walking territory. The Gorge de Verdon offers white-water rafting and fantastic views.

To the South is the Cote d'Azur. A visit to the fishing village of Cassis and swimming in the famous calanques is a must, so too is a trip to Marseille and bouillabaisse by the old port.