On the border of Languedoc and Midi Pyrenees south of Carcassonne, our beautifully restored French country home offers stylish, sometimes quirky accommodation reflects the long history and character of the rambling 18th century house on the village square. A 3 bedroom holiday cottage and b&b a few minutes from medieval Chalabre and Mirepoix, Carcassonne & Toulouse airports an easy drive.
The emerald-green waters of Lac Montbel (5km) and its sandy beaches offers a lovely spot for walking, picnicking, swimming, fishing, bird watching, or simply soaking up the sun. There is a sailing school here too. Slow right down and spend the day by the river Hers that flows through the village. A few hundred yards downstream, at the foot of wooded slopes is a natural basin, perfect for “wild” swimming – far preferable to a chemical filled pool. Guests have skinny dipped here. Chateau de Puivert (8km) provides a dramatic backdrop to the lake, another great spot for picnicking and swimming. You can barbecue here, go early or late to have it to yourself. Other secret places within easy reach are featured in Daniels Start’s excellent book, Wild Swimming France.
After a leisurely breakfast you can still reach the Mediterranean coast in plenty of time for lunch. Visit beautiful, coastal towns and sandy beaches such as Collioure and Argeles, about 2 hours drive.
Place Categories: B and Bs and Hotels and Eat and Sleep.