French Holiday Cottages and Villas

Alsace

The originality of Alsace lies in the broad spectrum of activities and natural beauty spots that await you in this region of tradition, legends and unique festivals… Wedged between the Latin and Germanic worlds, Alsace at the cross-roads of historical and cultural trends. History is ever-present in the landscapes and mentalities… As the centre of Europe, an intellectual source of the Renaissance, but also a great industrial region since the 18th century : discover the traditional half-timbered houses, Romanesque chapels or Gothic cathedrals, fortified towns, Wilhelm-built edifices, or miracously preserved old towns for you to admire… The landscapes between the Vosges mountains and the Rhine unfold like a poem : the Regional Nature Park of the Northern Vosges are overflowing with remarkable biotopes, sheltering a totally unexpected flora and fauna…

Aquitaine

THE OTHER SOUTH OF FRANCE Aquitaine is a myriad of different lands : Perigord, Gascony, Guyenne, Armagnac, Bearn, Basque country all make for the extraordinary diversity of the South West. Facing the Bay of Biscay, Aquitaine, a land of space has the natural borders of the Atlantic Ocean with its warm Gulf Stream waters and the Pyrenees which it shares with Spain. A single common element among this diversity : an authentic < art de vivre > and celebratory nature that come from the clement climate and an exceptionally rich history. The very cradle of prehistory is right in the heart of the Perigord, Aquitaine was initially influenced by the Romans, who were the investigators of what was to become the largest fine wine producing region in the World, the English appeared bringing Bastides, new towns developped in the XIIIth and XIVth centuries, remarkably well preserved . The coastline, an immense beach of 250 km, is a source of joy to swimmers and also surfers with the best spots in Europe.

Manoir de Montauriol
Just outside the picturesque village of Biron lies Montauriol, a XVII century manoir. The grounds to the property are exceptional. Approximately 60 acres (23 hectares) over half of which is natural woodland with wild deer, 15 acres of cultivated pine woodland and 10 of lawns and cut open spaces. A stream runs through the valley. None of this land has had any artificial fertilizers or hunting for the last 30 years.
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Auvergne

The Auvergne region with its spectacular volcanic terrain possesses a staring beauty on a vast scale. It's four departments, Allier, Cantal, Haute-Loire and Puy-de-Dome, lie in the heart of France only one hour from Lyon or three from Paris. There are a thousand ways to enjoy your holidays. Have a go at paragliding, try out rafting, go pony-trekking across the vast upland pastures, play a few rounds of golf or go skiing. Others will prefer to get plenty of fresh air walking in the two regional parks and along parts of the 18000 kilometers of marked out foot paths. History-lovers will stroll across the battlefield of Gergovia, follow in the footsteps of Lafayette, find out about the local legends, here and there visit some of the Auvergne's castles where mediaeval knights joust or go along the Route of the spa towns. Those who are keen on Romanesque art will admire the many churches which portray inspiration from the School of the Auvergne. You will surely enjoy the many festivals and summer events and appreciate the simple and traditionnal local Auvergnat cuisine. You might feel like trying all of it. In that case you'll just have to come back...

House in a Mountain Village VICHY & CLERMONT FERRAND (20 miles)
Our family home is renovated to a very HIGH STANDARD and is situated in an acre property in a typical french speaking only village with just 2000 inhabitants. THIS IS YOUR HOME more than a holiday rental with 2 BEDROOMS AND 2SHOWER-ROOMS AND A SEPARATE STUDIO if required. Enjoy an old fashioned relaxed, rustic life style with small family run shops within five minutes walk. Visit the village's Sunday market and local 'brocantes' where there are bargains galore.Go to the lake half a mile out of the village. There, enjoy a drink at the bar, watch the children at the Wave swimming-pool, mini croquet, game area of trampolin, slides,ball pool etc... You can play tennis and squash indoor or outdoor, swim in the lake, pedalo or wind surf.
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Brittany

Brittany is a world apart from the rest of France. Facing out towards the open sea, coastal Brittany is a place of winds, ocean swell and storms, as well as of harbours, islands, creeks, estuaries and beaches. Inland Brittany is a spell-binding land of myths and legends, of small, distinctive towns and of rivers and canals. As a whole, Brittany is a region of traditions with its own language, customs, cathedrals, parish closes, Pardons and festivals. Coastal Brittany. It has a jagged coastline with capes, headlands and rocks sheltering a multitude of fine sandy beaches, seaside resorts and lively commercial and fishing harbours. At the tip of Brittany, between the headland of Le Conquet and the famous Pointe du Raz, the military port of Brest stands guard over what is one of the busiest shipping routes in Europe. Further south lies the Gulf of Morbihan, an amazing inland sea dotted with islands. It is a real haven for seabirds and a sailing paradise. Inland Brittany. This is the heart of Brittany, a mysterious land where paths lead off into forests recounted in legend, such as that of Brocéliande and where health-giving wells, romantic châteaux, parish closes and charming, picturesque towns of special interest are waiting to be discovered. Inland Brittany also offers the unexpected magic of 600 km of canals and rivers. Brittany and its traditions. By taking part in a Pardon, Celtic festival or simple village fête, the visitor comes closer to discovering the true spirit of Brittany. Welcome to Brittany, to a region with a wealth of exciting attractions and a land of seafood, cider and crêpes.

Coat Aillis
Coat Aillis is idealy situated in idyllic countryside and yet ojnly a couple minutes from the sea or a 20 min walk thru woods.This former farmette has been renovated in a stylish manner so it can accommmadate up to 14 in the farmhouse and with gites of 4,3 and 2 bedrooms.The many attractions of Coat Aillis make it an ideal venue for the family sejour as our many regulars will agree.
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Burgundy

Take the time to discover Burgundy. Leaf through the finest pages of France's history: Alesia, Vauban, Rameau, Cîteaux, Lamartine, Solutré, Colette, Š These are just some of the famous names that have left their mark on France. Sample our gastronomic specialities. A trip on the river? A saunter into history? A closer look at nature? Burgundy invites you to take an exceptional journey in time, following the traces of Vercingetorix, the Golden Fleece, and the great Dukes of the West. The Burgundians are a most hospitable people. Visit Burgundy in the company of friends, for weekend escapes or for longer, staying in one of our holiday homes to rent. Welcome to Burgundy. Welcome to "l'art et le plaisir de vivre."

Beautiful 18th century Millhouse
Situated in the quiet hamlet of Magny, two kilometres from Châtel Censoir, the terraced gardens of this wonderful house descend towards the wooded banks of the River Yonne with the Canal du Nivernais beyond. A carefully restored 18th century millhouse, Les Avoineries sleeps up to nine people and a baby.
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Champagne-Ardenne

From the Belgian frontier to the the sources of the Seine, one hour from Paris, Champagne-Ardenne is a region with a thousand and one attractions. Quite naturally, its Champagne wine offers the region its international fame. Further to this reputation, Champagne-Ardenne has all the necessary assets to be an ideal destination for sucessful holidays. It can be explored along a network of picturesque roads which cross from the North to the South... the large Ardennes forests, the big spaces of the cereals plains, the vineyards hills, green and wooded vales where numerous rivers flow. Along these roads, you will discover confortable and warm places to stop where gastronomy is always a must together with champagne. Active tourism in the protected nature, discovery of local and varied traditions where history is still alive, Champagne-Ardenne is the region of France of all pleasures and will become, no doubt, your 'love at first sight' destination...

Gîte Rural de Braucourt

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Franche-Comte

The vast woodland of Franche-Comté stretches between Vosges and Jura. Less obvious, the underground Franche-Comté accounts for over 9000 underground passages and caves. Franche-Comté's renowned places of interest can be visited with ease, including the Hérisson Waterfall, the blind valley of Baume-les-Messieurs, Saut de la Truite (waterfall), Corniche de Goumois (cliff ledge), Ballon de Servance (rounded mountain top), the Lison spring, La Motte viewpoint, the Cusancin valley, pass of Les Croix, the gorges of the Langouette.

Languedoc-Roussillon

More than 30% of the Blue Flags in France were granted to sites in Languedoc-Roussillon. Over the last ten years, the flags have been awarded to ports and beaches for their respect of the environment. This ecological label has finally been bestowed upon most of the seaside resorts in Languedoc-Roussillon

La Maison Neuve
La Maison Neuve, a property regarded by many of the locals as one of the most imposing in the area. The main house currently offers accomodation on three floors.(6 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms) the enclosed courtyard and internal balconies (logias) make it very special indeed. The beautiful scenery can be enjoyed from all aspects. The pool is private to the main house.All bedlinen, towels including pooltowels are included. A smaller property, La Porche is situated to the side of the mainhouse and has it's own private pool.La Porche sleeps 4 in comfort with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. (details and prices on request) The Cevennes offers endless possibilities for those who enjoy nature, with breathtaking views, rivers & waterfalls. We cannot possibly list all that is to see and to do. All we can say is 'Why not come and see for yourself' If you have been to this part of the world before you will surely agree.
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Limousin

The Limousin, right in the middle of France is a region which will provide you with new feelings. Imagine : impressive landscapes and wild rivers : Dordogne, Creuse, Vienne, megalithic stones and curious rocks having had peculiar effects upon man’s imagination, a walk in the peat bog of Longeyroux on the Plateau of Millevaches, or around the lake of Vassivière, a discovery of the treasures, chateau and Romanesque churches along the route Saint Jacques de Compostelle or the Richard the Lionheart Road,a chestnut aperitif, with “galetous” filled with fresh home made “pâté” and in a fine porcelain plate : fillets of trout garlanded with ceps. In dessert we recommend a “clafoutis” (in the ancient language of the region it means full of, or brimming) made with cherries, a stroll in the Naturel Régional Park Périgord-Limousin. Which boasts well-preserved habitats, marshy areas, peatbeds, unusual crafts with chestnut wood, we are waiting for you.

Fleuret House
Dating back to 1640, the Manor House at Fleuret has been lovingly restored, retaining many original features, and offers an extremely spacious home for up to 10 people. Originally a small hamlet, home to 12 families, the magnificent red sandstone buildings are set in acres of meadow and woodlands. With spectacular views all around us, the most memorable is that of the medieval village of Curemonte directly opposite Fleuret on the other side of the Valley.
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Loire Valley

Gazing through binoculars, a child scans the reed-beds for a purple heron, buzzard or flock of wild ducks. The boat glides silently across one of the lakes that give the Sologne and Brenne areas their special charm. In these vast stretches of countryside, some of which are regional country parks (la Brenne, Le Perche, Loire-Anjou-Touraine), an unspoilt, well-preserved, living natural environment adorns itself with flora and fauna that are as captivating as they are diverse. Scents of plants and florwers, the rustle of wings, the trill of birdsong, the ripple of water and seasonally-changing colours in the landscape are just some of the fascinating attractions that visitors can enjoy, on their own, or with guides skilled in passing on their knowledge of the local area and wild life.

Baulay and Baulette
A pair of detached gîtes, set in delightful open countryside, you are surrounded by fields of vines, and situated on the edge of the beautiful forest of Villandry. Close to Chinon and Tours. Duck and fishing pond in the grounds A few miles away from local amenities in Azay le Rideau including supermarkets, bakery, shops, restaurants and swimming-pools.
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Lorrainne

Lorraine is a popular venue for tourists seeking something that little bit different for a weekend break, a touring holiday or a longer stay, in town or country, summer or winter. Travelling through Lorraine in a light that is often as cold as a ripe mirabelle plum, it is difficult not to be spellbound by the scenery and enchanted by the people, the greatest fans of a region whose history they are only too pleased to recount. This is the place for the proverbial warm welcome. Its spa towns, lakes and forests, winter sports resorts, artistic and architectural diversity and cultural or industrial heritage are just some of the lesser-known facets of its extraordinary tourist attractions. Welcome to Lorraine !

Midi-Pyrenees

The ancient province of THE LOT is the sunny gateway to South-West France. Its Springs and Autumns are often marvellous and it enjoys hot, dry summers. There are many contrasts - THE LOT and DORDOGNE RIVERS are always pure, sometimes meandering slowly and majestically across a land of milk and honey (and foie gras, of course) and sometimes rushing between high cliffs - rivers of character, excellent for swimming and canoeing. Its countryside is unbelievably lovely, dotted with villages built of stone, the colour of champagne - enjoy quiet country walks and horse riding To the West isthe CHATEAU DE BONAGUIL, one of the most impressive medieval fortresses in France - tours and “son et lumiere” tell its story on summer evenings. The medievalcity of CAHORS was once a Roman camp and now its superb streets are lined with ornate facades. Visit the cathedral and the beautiful fortified PONT VALENTRE ST.CIRQ LAPOPIE, one of the prettiest villages in France, stands perched on rocky cliffs that drop vertically to the river, giving remarkable views over the valley. MEDIEVAL ROCAMADOUR clings to the rock, vertically overlooked by tiers of houses, churches and castle. It is on the pilgrim route to Santiago in Spain. BASTIDE TOWNS built by the English, such as MONPAZIER, during the 100 years war are numerous The grotto at PECH MERLE is one of France’s greatest pre-historic sites - where artists, 20,000 years ago, painted horses andhunters on the walls. PADIRAC is a great natural phenomena. The chasm gives way to wonderful galleries hollowed out of the limestone by a subterranean river. A descent into the well and tour of the mysterious river and vast caves gives the tourist a striking impression of this fascinating underground world.

MAS DE GOULPA
The house is quite stunning, set in approximately 17 acres on a plateau above the valley of the River Lot; it is of traditional style with pigeonnier externally, but inside it is contemporary style of exceptional quality, with lots of light-oak floors and doors which, with the benefit of large window openings, makes for wonderfully bright spaces.
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Nord Pas De Calais

Peaceful countryside and quaint seaside villages - it is so remarkable what attractions lurk behind the scenes in the Nord-Pas de Calais … Fairs and fetes, ‘ducasses’ and carnivals, ‘braderies’ and parades of giants - all year round the region is alive with laughter and lots of festive spirit ! Bright, breezy and so exhilarating - with the wind in your ‘sails’ come and try your hand at some sand-yachting, speed-sailing, kite flying or fun boarding. The March beer « est arrivée » ! Just one of the many locally brewed beers, and other traditional gastronomic delights that will tickle your tastebuds. Shopping - such a passionate pastime ! Chic boutiques, colourful markets, and superb factory outlets of world renowned crystalware and luxury bedlinen... Ramble, hike, or just stroll and take in the ambience of unspoilt forests, serene meadows and imposing cliffs. From magnificent Fine Arts masterpieces to stately fortified towns, to the emotion of many historical battlefields - such a wealth of culture and heritage. The perfect swing, that fantastic ‘eagle’, or that nasty piece of ‘rough’ , but what a beautiful ‘round’ of golf we had ! So easy, so swift and no hassle, and it’s ‘real France’. The region has become such an important European ‘hub’ - so you have no excuses ! Once you have been to the Nord-Pas de Calais - we gurantee you will want to come back !

Les Bois
In Doudeauville, 4 miles South of Desvres. Pretty country house. Under an hour from Calais, but right in the country, our South-facing comfortable house, with its wealth of exposed beams,overlooks a garden with its own stream(one of the sources of the River Course), which is as pretty in spring and autumn as it is in high summer. Unspoilt beach within 1/2 hour. Crecy, Agincourt, Montreuil, Le Touquet, Amiens and World War I battlefields all within 1 hour.
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Normandy

Normandy is certainly no stranger to the modern way of life, situated as it is on the doorstep of Paris and within easy reach of many places. It has lost none of its identity and authenticity. Beneath ever-changing skies, a living picture which has inspired more than A patchwork of coast and countryside one artist and has an unrivalled cultural and historical heritage to offer. Normandy is proud of its past The region became known the world over following the D-Day Landings by Allied Forces on June 6th 1944, but has since healed its wounds, and now boasts vast sandy beaches along a welcoming coastline dotted with renowned seaside resorts as well as stretches of equally attractive and totally unspoilt areas of countryside, such as the Nez de Jobourg headland and the cliffs in the Caux region. Tucked away in its countryside, famous for its springtime apple blossom, its timber-framed houses, its cows and its stud farms are the majestic ruins of abbeys, feudal castles and many a tiny Romanesque church. All of which are easy to find, thanks to the network of tiny lanes and paths criss-crossing the rolling downs and leafy “bocage” countryside, which are ideal for walking, cycling and riding. Whereever you are, between Mont-Saint-Michel and Dieppe or Eu, you can be sure of receiving a warm welcome, while its two capitals, Caen and Rouen, are there to prove, if needs be, that economic development can indeed go hand in hand with a flourishing tourist trade.

LE VIEUX CHALONGE
Attractive, traditional, stone, highly appointed Cottage set within its own grounds in peaceful, rural surroundings with open undulating countryside, yet close to all amenities. Sleeps 6. The cottage is south facing and enjoys delightful views across meadowland and nestles alongside a copse. A perfect location to relax in tranquil surroundings. Prices inclusive of bedlinen and cleaning. Saturday changeover. For larger parties our cottage next door sleeps 7. Group discounts available for 2-week bookings if taking both cottages.
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Paris ile-de-France

Paris Ile-de-France : the capital region… Historic, economic, artistic and cultural capital of France, Paris understandably remains the most visited city in the world : rich in museums, monuments and curiosities of all kinds, it is also a city where it is good to stroll. The Ile-de-France region which includes Paris and seven other departments, is a true paradise for tourists, and offers beautiful surprises for complete holidays : visits of castles, romantic cruises, walks through the countryside, introduction to golf… The Ile-de-France is a cultural gold-mine : the châteaux breathe elegance and beauty : Versailles, Fontainebleau, Vincennes, Saint-Germain-en-Laye, Vaux-le-Vicomte… monuments abound ans museums can be counted by the hundred. Religious masterpieces are everywhere : Royaumont, Maubuisson, Saint-Denis… The gentle landscapes and villages of the Ile-de-France inspired a great many artists. So, why not take a short break, enjoy the fresh air, tranquility and exercice ? On foot, horseback or by cycle, discover natural parks… The Ile-de-France also offers many attractions for your children : Disneyland® Paris, France Miniature… A dense network of public transport allows, thanks to the train, the metro, the RER or the bus, to move very easily. Reagrding accommodation you have the choice among a great number of different formulas adapted to each budget

Ste. Croix
In the heart of Paris, yet a very quiet place, on the 3rd floor and on the courtyard side of a building from the 18th century. Main room with a queen size sofa bed, wardrobe and shelves. Above is a loft with 2 twin beds. Bathroom with stall shower. Separate toilet. Separate kitchen with a counter bar and a dining table for 4. Very cozy and quiet base to explore this vibrant section of Paris.
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Picardy

The region of Picardy holds many a memory of the history of France. Each acre of land, with its monuments and traces of past events, bears witness to its role in the changes that have formed Europe over recent centuries. An exceptional region with exceptional people awaits you with open arms. Picardy, only hours away!

Domaine de la vallée Saint Pierre
In a bosky bower in the Authie Valley, facing Valloires Cistercian Abbey, this XX° Manor surrounded by parterres of English roses and flowers beds is arranged around a central patio. The 38-acre park along the Authies features two ponds, woods, and streams. The spacious, superbly decorated bedrooms boast a lounge area and a hallway. Quiet, discretion, and comfort are the hallmarks at this unmissable spot.
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Poitou-Charentes

Poitou-Charentes invites you to discover all that it has to offer, to take a stroll in the sunshine on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, in towns or beside fortresses and ramparts, to rendez-vous with History, to enjoy the peaceful tranquillity of the marshland known as the Marais Poitevin or to experience the thrills and excitement of image technology at the Futuroscope. Admire the golden glow of the vineyard around Cognac, the meanders of the River Charente, the light suffusing the castles, house fronts or Romanesque churches. Tickle your taste buds with the gourmet cuisine that has develop thanks to the fertile farmland.

Le Relais
Le Relais is situated on the edge of a delightful and quiet village, surrounded by glorious countryside. This lovingly restored 12th cent. Country post house now offers today's "vacanciers" a truly peaceful and relaxing holiday. Comfortable furniture, thick walls which guarantee cool rooms in the summer heat and a wealth of old beams all make Le Relais a unique place to holiday. The house sleeps 23 comfortably in 11 bedrooms. 5 bath/shower rooms, 5 WC.
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Provence - Alpes - Côte d’Azur

A land of colors, from the cliffs of the Luberon to the fiery red mountains of the Esterel, and stretching to the snowy peaks of the Southern alps ski stations , this is a many-faceted region. An area full of history: Many remains bear witness to the region's rich and ancient past. The Roman arenas in ARLES and FREJUS, the Glanum site in SAINT-REMY-DE-PROVENCE and VAISON-LA-ROMAINE, and also MARSEILLE, all conserve extremely beautiful relics from ancient times. The Cistercian and Benedictine abbeys remind us that Provence was once a major religious center. The fortified cities of BRIANCON and SISTERON are two notable examples of the region's military architecture heritage. The Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region includes sites and monuments from each historical era. The region offers an amazing range of water sports and outdoor activities: golf, sailing, diving, swimming, skiing, walking, white-water sports and aerial sports, climbing, caving, fishing... The region is also able to offer high quality facilities and qualified professionals to supervise these many different activities.

Les Laurons in Provence
XVII C. Equestrian hamlet Luberon en Provence 5 Guest Houses (3 to 19 persons) Pool, Ponies and Horses
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