"We scoured Europe for the perfect location that had good weather, brilliant climbing and other activities too, but that would still be accessible to the UK by train.  We wanted to create somewhere unforgettable where climbers would actually look forward to rest days and feel happy about coming with non-climbing friends or family," says Audrey. "We've continued to develop Alauzon as a low-impact, sustainable living environment in harmony with our surroundings."

Audrey and Adrian are keen to make Alauzon the first choice for climbers looking for somewhere to head in Europe. Buis-les-Baronnies is at the centre of the Rockfax Haute Provence guidebook and was Adrian's base while writing the book. The area has a diverse range of world-class crags offering everything from routes for complete novices to serious sport crags at the top end of the grade range in addition to some brilliant multi-pitch routes on nearby St. Julien.

The nearest climbing areas are just 15 minutes away and a major new venue, even closer, is being equipped which will be ideal for year-round climbing with sunny south-facing routes for the winter and shady north-facing ones for the summer. There's even some bouldering to be found on the blocs littering the hillside below the village of La Roche-sur-le-Buis.

 Alauzon can accommodate a range of group sizes across three units:

• The Studio: a clean and modern apartment, sleeps up to 4 (from €300 per week)
• The Bergerie: a charming, three-bedroom gite, sleeps up to 9 (from €600 per week)
• The Bunkhouse: a large, airy space for simple yet comfortable group accommodation – sleeps up to 13 (from €750 per week)

With a current maximum capacity of 26, and plans for more development in the next year, it is ideal for large groups and club meets. To cater for greater numbers there is a professional kitchen and a large dining/function room.

The owners recognise that groups need more than just climbing when there is a mix of climbers and non-climbers.  At Alauzon there is plenty to do and explore with or without a car.  There is a large, springwater-fed heated pool open from April to September. A number of hiking and mountain bike trails depart from the property and a fleet of mountain bikes is available for hire with discounts for Alauzon guests.  For road cyclists, Alauzon is in the shadow of the famed Mont Ventoux- often featured in the Tour de France.  Other activities nearby include: horseback riding, via ferrata, canyonning and paragliding. 

Factsheet:

• Website: www.alauzon.com (info@alauzon.com + 33 987 88 65 77)
• Optimum climbing season: September to June.
• Transport- rail: From London, direct Eurostar to Avignon TGV (www.eurostar.com) prices start at £149 return, group discounts available.  There are numerous hire car options from Avignon TGV.
• Transport- air: Marseille airport is less than two hours away.
• Shopping: There are two supermarkets in Buis-les-Baronnies open 7 days/week. There is a climbing shop in town.
• Buis-les-Baronnies is a vibrant market town (market days are Wednesday and Saturday mornings) with year-round festivals and activities for all ages. www.buislesbaronnies.com/en/