Picturesque Gite with terraces in idyllic mountain village with views
(Reference:552)
L’Ecurie 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms . Sleeps 4. With terraces. This charming and totally self contained gite is part of “La Grange” a lovingly converted stone sheep barn in the foothills of the Pyrenees. It is situated in the village of Vira, one of the most picturesque villages in the area and offers lovely views over the surrounding valleys and forests. Forty miles west of Perpignan, Vira is totally unspoilt and is on the edge of the Foret de Boucheville. The small village has a plan d’eau and barbecue area, a delightful church and a marie. La Grange hugs the side of the mountain and is situated on the edge of the village. Unspoiled tracks through the adjoining forest and hills are on the doorstep. L'Ecurie is lovingly restored and converted with all modcons, yet still retains the simple charm of a mountain stone house. There are small steps leading through the gate up to two pretty sun terraces. The front door leads into entrance lobby and open plan kitchen/sitting room.

Bedroom one is a double with bath and shower en suite. Bedroom 2 is also a double with a larger bathroom and shower en suite.

Both bathrooms have bath and shower.

Living room in typically French countrystyle with sofa and two comfortable chairs and coal effect fire. cd/radio.

kitchen is open plan with stove fridge/freezer, gas cooker and microwave.

Outside is a split level terrace, one with wood decking, barbecue and table and chairs, the lower terrace is paved in slate and ideal for sun-beds.

towels and bed linen provided.

There are tiled floors throughout the gite, except for the bedroom floors which are finished in wood. Many unusual features have been developed using the original manger rails and a rock feature in bedroom 1.

There is no wheelchair access.

parking immediately outside.

There are stunning Cathar castles to explore, notably Peyreperteuse, Queribus and Puilrens. The area is famous for some fine examples of Roman architecture such as the aqueduct at Ansignan, the abbey at Serrabonne and the thermal baths at Rennes le Bains where you can bathe all year round. Perpignan the very Catalan capital of the region, is an hour's drive and the beautiful medieval walled city of Carcassonne l hour and 20 minutes. Just south of Perpignan is the quaint historic town of Ceret, home to many famous impressionist artists who are exhibited at the museum of modern art. Also for art lover is the beautiful fishing village of Collioure, which inspired the paintings of Matisse, or the Dali Museum at Figueres, just across the Spanish border where you can enjoy lunch on the unspoilt Costa Brava coast just l hour and 30 minute drive from Vira. The Languedoc Rousillon is now the largest wine growing region of France and there are numerous vineyards offering the opportunity to taste the many wonderful varieties of wine on offer.

Nearest shops are 4 miles away in Caudies de Fenouilledes. Here is a butcher, baker, tabac, mini-supermarket, chemist, post office and restaurant. Within 20 minutes in St Paul de Fenouillet with a large supermarket, garage, shops and restaurants, plus a Saturday market. 25 minutes west is the pretty market town of Quillan which is bustling with restaurants, shops, bars and a large supermarket complex. There is a market here every Wednesday and Saturday. There are many fine restaurants in the region serving gourmet food. The famous Cassoulet and Creme Catalan must be tried.

An ideal location for country lovers looking for activities such as walking, riding, cycling on the numerous well-marked trails. All around is unspoiled landscape, vineyards, hills, forests, valleys, mountains, rivers, gorges and waterfalls. In early Spring and Summer the almond and cherry blossom, the wild flowers, herbs, butterflies and bird life are a never-to-be forgotten experience. In July and August a free open air pool in the next village of Fosse is available to all. White Water rafting is a popular pursuit for the adventurous in the river near Lapradelle, 25 minutes drive away.

| From | To | Currency | Price | Per | Minimum Rental Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 March | 14 May | GB Pounds | 300 | Week | Week |
| 15 May | 18 June | GB Pounds | 330 | Week | Week |
| 19 June | 17 September | GB Pounds | 375 | Week | Week |
| 18 September | 15 October | GB Pounds | 330 | Week | Week |
| 16 October | 31 December | GB Pounds | 300 | Week | Week |
| 20 Febuary | 19 March | GB Pounds | 250 | Week | Week |

Prices are per property per week. A deposit of 30% is required on booking with final payment 6 weeks before the start of the holiday. Plus a refundable damage deposit of £100.

Changeover day is Saturday but the owner will be flexible where possible. Arrival is 4pm and departure l2 noon.

Availability from 31st May. Contact owner for more details.

Suzanne Foster
Tel: (UK) + 44 (0) 207228 2010
Fax: (UK) + 44 (0) 207228 2226
Mobile: (UK) + 44 (0) 7818 615512