The Charm (and Quirks) of Coastal Living

Staying at Lei Cigaloun means embracing the rhythm of the Mediterranean — and that also means learning to live with a few natural elements with a relaxed mindset. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of it:

🌿 The Mistral

This strong, dry wind from the South can blow for several days in a row. It brings bright blue skies… but also calls for a few precautions:

• Be sure to close windows and doors, especially those facing the sea.

• Don’t leave lightweight items outside (towels, cushions, bags…): the wind is stronger than it seems.

• Secure the shutters tightly to prevent them from slamming or being torn off.

• Be careful when swimming: the mistral can make the sea rough. It’s best to avoid inflatable floats on these days. The waves cool the water noticeably.Prefer calm waters? The Les Lecques beach (just a few minutes away) is ideal for safe swimming.

• In strong wind, enjoy the rear terrace, protected by a retractable windbreak, perfect for sheltered meals and lounging.

  
  

🦟 Mosquitoes

The warm climate and surrounding vegetation can attract mosquitoes, especially in the evening:

• We recommend bringing appropriate mosquito repellent.

• For peaceful nights, keep windows closed and use air conditioning in the bedrooms.

  
  

☀️ The Mediterranean sun

It’s generous — sometimes a bit too much! To avoid sunburn or heatstroke:

• Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, even for short outings.

• Stay in the shade during peak hours (12–4 pm), especially with children.

• Keep well hydrated, especially in summer.

• And don’t be fooled: the mistral can make the air feel cooler, but UV rays are still strong. Stay cautious, even in windy conditions.

  
  

🌬️ Sea air

The salty sea breeze is part of the coastal charm — but it does have some visible effects:

• It naturally accelerates the oxidation of metal elements (furniture, gates…).

• This does not affect comfort in any way and is simply part of authentic seaside living.

🌿 Pine needles… the charm of the South beneath your feet

The villa is surrounded by majestic pine trees, typical of the Provence coast. They provide welcome shade on hot summer days, and their resinous scent adds to the unique Mediterranean atmosphere.

But like all living things, they leave their traces: pine needles (those fine green pine leaves) fall naturally into the garden and onto the terrace.It’s a small price to pay for the refreshing greenery — and easy to forget once you’re relaxing in the shade, drink in hand, gazing out at the sea.

🌿 Cement tiles — vintage and today

If you look at the floor, you may notice that some of the cement tiles are not perfectly identical. That’s normal — and intentional!

We’ve chosen to preserve the original tiles, over 100 years old, wherever possible. They’re part of the house’s history, with their irregularities and charming marks of time.

Where renovation was necessary (plumbing, layout, etc.), we added new tiles in matching tones, without trying to make everything look uniform.This mix of past and present reflects Lei Cigaloun’s style: authentic, full of life, and brimming with charm.

😺 And a few whiskered visitors…

Free-roaming cats live peacefully in the neighborhood. Some are shy, others more curious — but they are all harmless.They may wander into the garden or onto the terrace — they won’t ask for anything, but might not say no to a few kibbles if you feel like offering some.

You might also spot the lovely white and ginger cat from next door, who enjoys lounging in the shade of the pines, keeping an eye on the menu of the day.u jour.