Villa FR5001

Details of the Villa

A rare find, fortunate to be surrounded by rolling hills in the small protected Cathar hilltop village. The hills are full of woods, fields and wilderness, perfect for walking with stunning views of the Pyrenees, the Black Mountains and the Corbières. With only 150 inhabitants, formerly the capital of Lauragais, historically, this village was an important castle with some of the fortifications still visible. This 18th Century house opens out onto the village’s Grande Rue, with around 12 other homes. Inside the house is a beautifully restored, comfortable family home, with thick stone walls making it fresh in the summer. The living room has a Jotul wood-burning stove and a sizeable South-facing terrace with stunning open views over the countryside. The birdsong from the terrace is marvellous with pigeons that bill and coo. A separate private garden with a fabulous pool and a sun and dining terrace is a vital feature of this property. Castelnaudary is a short 15 minutes away and has plenty of facilities, including good restaurants and a major centre for the Canal du Midi. There are also plenty of walking trails nearby and lots to do and see within driving distance, including good skiing. The owners’ personal touch has created a haven of peace, tranquillity, and beautiful views. To find out more or to book, get in touch today! Villa Interior The villa is located over three floors with a separate private garden. Ground Floor - Utility room with washing machine, tumble dryer, walk-in hot drying room. iron and ironing board - Back door leading down the road to the garden and pool First Floor - Large entrance hall with a selection of books - Double bedroom (14m2) with hand basin and private bathroom across the landing - Bathroom with bath/shower, washbasin and WC - Double bedroom (16m2) with en-suite bathroom with bath, shower, washbasin and WC - Twin or double bedroom (10m2) with en-suite bathroom with shower, washbasin and WC - Twin or double bedroom (14m2) with en-suite bathroom with shower, washbasin and WC Second Floor Open-plan living space of 56m2 comprising of: - Sitting area with comfortable sofas, armchairs, Jotul wood burning stove, plasma screen TV with UK channels, DVD player and a large selection of books. - Dining area with a large table for ten guests with glass sliding doors opening up onto the terrace. - Fully equipped kitchen with fridge, electric oven, microwave, electric hob, dishwasher, double sink and separate vegetable sink - Large landing (14m2) with freestanding freezer and wine fridge - Guests WC with washbasin - Terrace with wooden table and chairs, reclining sun loungers and gas barbecue with views over the pool Outside Grounds - Separate fenced private garden (30m from the house down an almost unused road) - Private swimming pool (8x4.5m) surrounded by wooden decking, grass, flowers, trees and shrubs. There are reclining sun loungers, parasols, a dining table, chairs and a fridge in the small garden cabin. The pool is open approximately 1st May – 7th October (cooler months may not be suitable for swimming) - Off-site parking (approx. 200m away) Facilities - Wi-Fi - Washing machine - Tumble dryer - Walk-in drying room - Dishwasher - Hairdryer in each bedroom - Wood burning stove and logs - Gas barbecue - Satellite plasma screen TV - DVD player - DVD selection - Eco-friendly electric radiators - Fans - Books - Private swimming pool (8x4.5m) open from 1st May to 7th October (cooler months may not be suitable for swimming) - 5 bikes This villa is located in the hilltop village of Laurac, close to the famous town of Carcassonne. With about 150 inhabitants, this charming village is an unspoilt and peaceful destination full of history and beauty. Castelnaudary is the nearest town (20mins away) with three supermarkets, many bars and restaurants and many other shops, including a weekly market held on Mondays. There is plenty of free car parking within 250 yards of the house. There is much to see and explore on foot, by bicycle, in a canoe or kayak, or in the car within the surrounding area. There are equestrian centres for horse riding in the local area. Similarly, bicycles can be hired in the nearby town of Bram. The cycle route along the Canal du Midi is ideal for all abilities and ages, making a perfect day out for the whole family with a picnic stop along the way! The Languedoc is abundant with hiking trails too, and exploring the region on foot is a lovely, leisurely method to discover the beauty of this region of France. Vineyards sprawl across the land and the famous region of Minervois is just beyond Carcassonne. Many local winemakers welcome groups for tours and tastings, and it is said that the best white wines from the South of France are produced here. The fortified city of Carcassonne is a must-see. There are guided tours and medieval shows to entertain all visitors throughout the summer. There are also many spectacular castles, abbeys and caves to visit in the area, especially the Grotte de Niaux with its pre-historic drawings. Toulouse, known as ‘La Ville Rose’ (the pink city), is a vibrant city full of history and culture with many cafes, restaurants, museums and shops. Mirepoix is only 20 mins away and has a beautiful market square, and the town of Albi boasts formidable architectural features.