Downton Abbey: A New Era is released at cinemas this weekend, after which I predict a rise in Google searches for homes on the Riviera. The cast, you see, decamp to inspect a villa in the south of France which the Dowager Countess has been fortuitously gifted in the will of an ageing French aristocrat with whom she enjoyed a former dalliance. The plot is nothing if not imaginative …

Thus the Granthams travel to the Cote d’Azur to inspect the villa. It happens to be the bucolic Palais De L’Ocean – an architectural gem which can also be rented, if you’re in the market for a posh “3G” holiday (that’s three generations, a current post-pandemic travel trend).

Palais De L’Ocean is one of the luxurious properties in the portfolio of Oliver’s Travels, founded by Oliver Bell and Ravi Sabharwal. It’s sure to bring any Downton fantasy to life – with ornately decorated living spaces, dining room and library all at guests’ disposal.

Needless to say there is plenty of space with a grand hallway, marble staircase and twelve ensuite bedrooms (it can accommodate up to 24 people), each with a view of the sea or gardens (three hectares of parkland with a pool and pathway leading to a rocky cove). Hop on the ferry to the Îles d’Hyères or enjoy a day visiting picturesque Toulon or Hyères.

Guests can request the “Ultimate Downton Abbey Experience” which has lots of opulent extras – from clay pigeon shooting to horse riding, a casino night, and an extravagant ball (Roaring 20s costumes are provided).

A private chef, butler, hair and make-up artists are also provided to emulate the Granthams’ regal style. As Lady Violet says in the film, “Do I look as if I’d turn down a villa in the South of France?” I wouldn’t.

www.oliverstravels.com