18th century holiday cottage south of Carcassonne
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| Details | |
|---|---|
| Bedrooms | 3 |
| Bathrooms | 2 |
| Sleeps | 6 |
| Cottage | |
| Suitability |
|---|
| Pet Friendly |
| Suitable for Children |
| FlipKey traveler rating |
| 12 reviews |
| Stayed here? Write a review. |
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Details
| Rental type | Cottage |
| Minimum Stay | 3 nights |
| Living space | 90 square meters |
| Bedrooms |
3 Total
Show Details ►
|
| Bathrooms |
2 Total
Show Details ►
|
| Sleeps | 6 |
| Suitability |
Pet friendlyYes Smoking allowedAsk Suitable for childrenYes Suitable for the elderlyAsk Wheelchair accessibleNo |
| Theme | Adventure, Historic, Romantic, Lake, Mountain, Village |
Description from the owner
In the foothills of the Pyrenees, on the border of Languedoc, Midi Pyrenees, our beautifully restored 3 bedroom cottage on the village square offers accommodation that retains its long French history and character. Secret courtyard garden from the ground floor bedroom and private 1st floor terrace. A rural retreat close to medieval Mirepoix for its lively weekly market and less than an hour from magnificent Carcassonne. Walking, cycling, mountain biking, sandy beaches and the turquoise waters of Lake Montbel for "wild" swimming. Cyclist friendly, we have maps and 2 mountain bikes to lend. 3 stylishly appointed bedrooms accommodate up to 6 peo...Read more
Amenities
Location
18th century holiday cottage south of Carcassonne
Chalabre, Languedoc-Roussillon, France
What's Nearby:
Additional Location Information
Our holiday cottage in the South of France is an easy drive from Carcassonne airport (60km) along roads that are quiet even in August. Toulouse is 1.5 hours and Perpignan, Beziers and Montpellier just a bit further, car hire from the aiports. Just off the A61 motorway, junction 22, Bram, on the scenic D16. Andorra is 110km, Barcelona 275km. Travel from Paris to Pamiers (about 30mins) by train via Toulouse. Medieval Chalabre (3km) is our nearest town for the boulangerie, bars and restaurants. Lots of parking at the house, garaged parking if required. Please visit (website: hidden) for more information.
A network of tracks and quiet roads lead from Sonnac sur l'Hers through historic towns and villages, you could find a different route from the house each day for a week at least. This is Tour de France country - mountain cols provide for those who like more of a challenge. The GR7, a path to Spain leads from the back door, though you may prefer one of the numerous circular routes that brings you back in time for lunch French style (i.e. long!) on your sunny terrace. Wild swimming in the river Hers that flows through the village and Lakes Montbel and Puivert. White water rafting, canoeing, horse riding, fishing, karting and downhill and cross-country skiiing, all within the local area. And if all this requires too much energy, we can arrange painting classes for you with a gallery in Mirepoix and perhaps suggest tours of nearby vineyards.
Deep in the land of the Cathars – ruined chateaux stand on rocky outcrops, testament to its troubled past. Montsegur, one of the most famous symbols of the Cathar resistance is 20mins from the house. Puivert (7km) a cycle ride, Fanjeaux, Bram, Castelnaudary, all an easy drive.
Languedoc is one huge vineyard; Blanquette de Limoux is produced over the hill, we can help you arrange tastings and tours of the caves.
A packed programme of festivals throughout the year include weekends of music and dance and the summer long classical extravaganza in Carcassonne. The last weekend in August Sonnac sur l'Hers is "en fete" - trestle tables are set on the square, fairy lights strung beneath the plane trees and you are invited to a meal en famille that lasts long into the night.
Location Type Lake, Mountain, Village
Rates
Rates shown in $ USD (Rental listed originally in EUR) (change)
Get $134 off your stay See Details »
| Date | Weeknight | Weekend Night | Weekly | Monthly | Minimum Stay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rate Summary | $161 | $161 | $663 - $1,065 | $1,065 | 3 nights |
| Jan. 18 2013 - Mar. 22 2013 Low season |
$147 | $147 | $797 | $1,065 | 3 nights |
| Mar. 23 2013 - Apr. 5 2013 Easter |
$161 | $161 | $931 | - | 3 nights |
| Apr. 6 2013 - May. 3 2013 | $147 | $147 | $797 | $1,065 | 3 nights |
| May. 4 2013 - Jul. 5 2013 | $147 | $147 | $931 | - | 3 nights |
| Jul. 6 2013 - Aug. 30 2013 High season |
- | - | $1,065 | - | 7 nights |
| Can't find rates for your travel dates? Contact the owner | |||||
| Aug. 31 2013 - Nov. 1 2013 Mid season |
$147 | $147 | $931 | - | 3 nights |
| Nov. 2 2013 - Dec. 20 2013 Low season |
$147 | $147 | $663 | $1,065 | 3 nights |
| Dec. 21 2013 - Jan. 3 2014 Christmas |
$161 | $161 | $931 | - | 3 nights |
| All Other Dates | $147 | $147 | - | - | 3 nights |
| View all 9 Rate Periods | |||||
Rental fees
- Damage deposit - $201 - Security Deposit
Additional notes from owner
~Prices are for up to 4 people, add 50 euros per extra person per week up to 6 people
~Reduced rates for lone travellers and couples, please enquire
~ Please visit (website: hidden) for more information
There are no extra charges; prices include high quality linens and towels, generous welcome goodies, free WiFi, baby equipment if required
A 20% deposit is required to secure your booking. Full payment is due 6 weeks prior to your stay.
Check in is 3pm, check out is by 11am although we will be flexible on this, depending on the needs of subsequent guests.
Arrival / departure dates are flexible to accommodate your flights, etc.
If you prefer not to drive please enquire about airport transfers.
We will try to accommodate your pet, please enquire.
Smoking is fine on the terrace and in the courtyard garden.
Availability
AvailableUnavailable Last updated: May 25, 2013 ◀▶
What Past Guests Are Saying
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Janica
Appleton, WI, USALovely Gite Close to Many Places
Left on 02/14/2013 for a stay in July 2012
We had a wonderful week at this gite and it was close to everything, including within walking distance of a Tour De France stage. We were also close to other wonderful places like the market of Mirepoix, the walled city of Carcassone and many chateaux of medieval times. Our hosts even had short cuts that made it easier to get around. The gite was very clean and thoughtfully furnished: the highlights were the wonderful tub and the upper patio that overlooked the hills behind. We ate out there every night. We did quite a bit of light cooking there and had everything we needed. Our hosts could not have been nicer, including a delicious welcoming meal and many suggestions based on our interests. Nick even helped us get answers on our next stay. The rooms were exactly as described and could comfortably have slept 6. We used the washing machine several times which was great as the temps were warm and we did a lot of hiking on the many trails just outside the property. For us, a deciding factor was being able to walk to the Tour de France stage. We walked there mid-morning and walked back mid-afternoon. Based on its location, I would estimate that it would be pretty easy to get to other stages that are close by, even by driving. I would definitely recommend this gite and the hosts, and have been doing so when our friends hear what a wonderful time we had there.
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Tammie O'Rielly, Gritty Angel
Kelowna, BC, CanadaSimply Divine! Gritty angel Thumbs Up!
Left on 02/05/2013 for a stay in October 2012
I knew I wanted to return to this beautiful area in southern France and couldn't have picked a better "home away from home". I rented the cottage for 3 weeks and ended up staying a month! Cozy and comfortable with a nice blend of antiques and Ikea and my own personal fig tree! The bathtub was divine with a view of the village square with it's lovely fountain. The pictures are very accurate on the website. I loved the ambiance and charm of the small village, with the tinkle of cow bells and you are within a short distance of castles and wineries by car and bike. All the special Cathar haunts from Montsegur to Carcassonne! Just watch those French drivers on country roads! The open market on Mondays in Mirepoix is the best way to shop and only 20 minutes away plus other local markets with everything you could wish for. Carolyn and Nick were the kindest and very respectful hosts, very responsive by email and always willing to help me bumble through a French translation or share a glass of wine on the terrace or a cooking utensil! Just a totally joyous experience and I shall return! Dog friendly too which gets 5 stars in my books. You won't be disappointed by your stay or this location!
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FrankA
Brisbane AustraliaHome away from home - sout of France
Left on 02/05/2013 for a stay in January 2013
Nick and Carolyn provided a first class service that made us feel like we were in a home away from home. The cottage is in an idyllic setting in the tiny village of Sonnac-sur-L'Hers, surrounded by similar cottages and a church. The room was warm, pleasant and comfortable, with plenty of privacy. The bathroom was roomy with both a bath and shower. Meals were exceptional. Nick is a cordon bleu trained chef and the offerings were proof. Breakfast was brilliant with eggs to order, including an omelette and the usual continental fare. Dinner was three courses accompanied by great wines. Nick and Carolyn were able to give us an insight to the local attractions and we took advantage of those. The best part of the stay was the evening chats with the hosts. The worst part was having to leave!
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Fam Ritter
Bergeijk, NetherlandsRelaxing, exiting,homecoming
Left on 02/04/2013 for a stay in August 2012
Chez Maison Bleue. The first week of our holiday we spend at the gite of Chez maison bleue, what a surprise ! The warm welcome of Carolyn and Nick at our arrival and the beautifully restored medieval stable which is transformed into a modern gite next to the BB. The gite is really clean, nice and complete, situated at the small village square. Nicks lovely meals we enjoyed at the terras of Chez Maison Bleue. Even our vegetarian daughter was served lovely meals by Nick. It is a fact we will return to enjoy Chez Maison Bleue again!
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Olvido
MadridInmejorable
Left on 02/03/2013 for a stay in July 2012
Realmente encantador, tanto los paisajes, monumentos, como el alojamiento y sus dueños: Carolyn y Nick. La casa estaba impecablemente limpia, no faltó de nada, buen ambiente, buen humor y muy muy buenos alimentos preparados por un excelente cocinero. Decoración cuidada, sonrisa siempre presente. No tengo más que halagos para esta pareja y su casa. Repetiría a ciegas. Gracias por esas estupendas vacaciones. Olvido
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Steve Rowley
Stoke-on-TrentA wonderful evening in the shadows of the Pyrenees
Left on 01/31/2013 for a stay in May 2012
If you want an original experience of the "true" France then spend some time with Nick and Carolyn at Chez Maison Bleue. We had a fabulous time with them in May 2012. The setting is fantastic, in the foothills of the Pyrenees at Sonnac-sur-l'Hers. The house (and the gite next door) have been authentically and lovingly renovated by Carolyn & Nick is right in the middle of this idyllic French village. The very French surroundings are matched only by the quality of Nick's cooking! Whilst we spent a lazy time chatting & drinking the local wine, there is easy access to swimming (in the local lake), walking, cycling and horse riding. Just the sort of place to recharge your batteries, good value & less than an hour from Carcassone.
Response from Chez Maison Bleue - 02/03/2013
Owner
Thank you Steve & Helen, we are glad you enjoyed the tranquil and still very French setting of our French country home. Until the next time, Carolyn & Nick
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Megan & Mike
CumbriaHappy Holidays!!
Left on 03/10/2012 for a stay in March 2012
Where do I start, everything about our stay was fantastic! We were pleasantly welcomed on our arrival and shown around the stunning property, the property is vintage yet has a modern twist in each room . It has all the everyday facility you could possibly need. The Village is quiet and relaxing and the hosts are more than willing to provide any directions or local information required. After a long day of travelling and skiing we had built quite an appetite and that was met by a delicious 3 course meal to suit our dietary needs it was more than satisfying washed down with a glass of vino or two! We only had a short stay but we are definitely looking in too a longer stay in summer the atmosphere and enthusiasm of our hosts make the stay so enjoyable. Thanks again
Response from Chez Maison Bleue - 02/03/2013
Owner
Glad you benefitted from the very pretty, uncrowded, extremely good value ski resorts just a short drive from our French holiday home, look forward to your 2nd visit!
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Lesley-Ann
WhitehavenPerfect holiday.
Left on 02/21/2012 for a stay in October 2011
A gorgeous house in a very lovely peaceful setting. We were there in October and spent most of the week walking and cycling. There are some great paths you can follow from the village. We had lunch outside most days and great food and wine at the B&B; next door. I am interested in Cathar history and we visited Montsegur and Puivert which are close by. Don't miss the market in Mirepoix, only 10mins and even slightly out of season was very lively. Great selection of films and books for cosy evenings snuggled up on the sofa, we just loved it.
Response from Chez Maison Bleue - 02/22/2012
Owner
Thank you for your kind words - we look forward to seeing you again in the summer - I see you have just booked again for July, fabulous! best wishes, Carolyn
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ruthwillis177@btinternet.com
CarlisleFabulous Holiday..definitely stay again
Left on 12/21/2011 for a stay in October 2011
Date of arrival 15 Oct 2011
We love this house, our second visit, a lovely location on the village square by the church, a place where you can completely immerse yourself in French culture and life. Newly restored, no expense has been spared on modern comforts that snuggle up to the ancient walls and stone. The ground floor bedroom has a tiny courtyard garden, very private, and lit with candles in the evening, a very romantic spot to share a bottle of fizzy Blanquette.
We especially like the many paths from the back door, the natural beauty of the area is stunning, you can walk for miles and not meet anyone else - I can't imagine it will stay that way for long. Lovely medieval towns within walking / cycling distance (there are 2 bikes you can use for free) Puivert, Camon, Chalabre, and we enjoyed the fabulous weekly market and boutique shops in Mirepoix - about 10mins drive. The walled city of Carcassonne looks like something from a fairlytale, we spent a lovely day exploring.
We had supper every night at the b&b.; The owner, Nick, is cordon bleue trained and it certainly shows. Meals cooked mainly from local produce were without exception more the standard you would expect in a far more expensive restaurant. A nice wine list too, much of it local. Good restaurants in the vicinity if you fancy a change. We were there for the fete at the end of august where tables were laid out under trees strung with fairy lights and copius amounts of food and wine served into the night.
A gem in this completely unspoilt region.Response from Chez Maison Bleue - 02/03/2013
Owner
So glad you enjoyed the natural beauty of our region as well as the lively towns and markets, you should try the Easter Fete this year, sweet omelet flambeed with the local eau de vie, the first time dessert has made me hungover! Till the next time.
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John
WigtonA golden oldie
Left on 11/09/2011 for a stay in August 2011
Stayed at this beautifully restored old house for a long weekend in august.
Its setting is superb, beside the church on the lovely little square of Sonnac, less than an hour's drive from Carcassonne.
Plenty to see and do in the area, with loads of potential for walking, biking, canoeing, etc.
The property itself has been superbly restored to a high standard ... and, if you ask nicely, owners Nick and Carolyn may even whip up a cordon bleu meal for you!
Response from Chez Maison Bleue - 02/03/2013
Owner
Glad you enjoyed Nick's cooking using mainly produce grown organically on our potager. We are planning to keep hens this year for the fluffy omelet that go down a treat at breakfast.
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Judith
Rugby WarwickshireRural Relaxation
Left on 11/08/2011 for a stay in August 2010
Lovely relaxing stay in a beautiful part of france where it seems like time has stood still. Lovely restored stone village house next to the church with great mix of antique and modern furniture. Lovely terrace and courtyard for al fresco dining.
Plenty to explore in the surrounding areas, the local market is great for fresh produce.Response from Chez Maison Bleue - 12/07/2011
Owner
Glad you had such complete R&R wandering from the house each day (you were the guests we picked up from the airport). See you again soon.
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Margaret H
CumbriaA lovely retreat in this unspoilt region
Left on 11/07/2011 for a stay in September 2011
What a find, this gorgeous house on the village square is quintessential rural France. The standard of accommodation is outstanding, all newly restored, the mix of old and new is delightful. We loved our bedroom at the top of the house with its huge antique French bed and enjoyed all our meals alfresco on the sunny terrace. We walked from the house and picked herbs from the hedgerows for dinner, shopped at the market in Mirepoix, and had a great day out exploring the medieval ramparts of Carcassonne. The owners are very knowledgeable about the region and offered us advice on walking and cycling routes and lent us their mountain bikes (2 bikes are available to all guests). A perfect blend of away from it all and loads to do if you want to.