Domaine Les Pyrenees

Feel the Catalan spirit of this exquisitely renovated farmhouse set in Mediterranean woodland in the foothills of the Pyrenees, close to the Spanish border and just a short drive from one of France’s most enchanting villages. The complete restoration of this former 13th century mas has been a remarkable achievement. Completely abandoned and being taken over by nature, its new owners brought together a dedicated team to oversee its thoughtful transformation. Every care has been taken to maintain so much of the farmhouse’s original structure whilst sensitively adding contemporary elements. 600-year old wooden beams have been rescued, as have many of the terracotta tiles including some painted with traditional Catalan patterns, now showcased as part of the domaine.   Indeed, the interior design also reflects Domaine Les Pyrénées’ Catalan heritage with colours and materials used whilst furnishings have been carefully selected to create a calming yet characterful ambience. This is especially evident in its nine bedrooms, each one individually designed yet all featuring high-end bedding alongside original features, always complementing the beauty of the estate’s surroundings. The nine bathrooms are just as impressive, seven of them en suite, each one unique in its style and design. Set in many acres of pine forests, enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings as you relax by the swimming pool, pick vegetables and herbs from the garden or bathe in the southern French sunshine on the upper patio. As the evening nears, enjoy a glass of Byrrh, a local aperitif, and watch the sun set from the vast terrace. Let the house-manager arrange delicious feasts for you with locally sourced ingredients prepared using traditional cooking methods, or drive the short 3km distance to the local village, classified as one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’. With its incredible hillside setting, potter around its cobbled lanes coming across little artisan studios and charming restaurants. Admire the 10th century château perched above the village or simply gaze out to the stunning scenery around you. Hiking excursions in the mountains and gorges can be arranged, as can horse-riding and mountain biking or even a trip to the beach – the sandy shores of the Mediterranean can be easily reached for a wonderful day out by the sea. Otherwise, spend time exploring the vibrant city of Perpignan, visit vineyards and wineries, head as far as historic Cathar castles or discover more delightful villages and market towns in this extraordinary and authentic part of southern France.  Features: Domaine Interiors Ground Floor -    Living room featuring bar with drinks fridge -    Dining room -    Open-plan kitchen, well-equipped including fridge, freezer, ice-maker, oven, induction hobs, microwave and dishwasher -    Laundry room -    Bedroom 1 with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom with Italian shower -    Bedroom 2 with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom with Italian shower -    Bedroom 3 with twin beds (can be made up as double) and en suite bathroom with bath and Italian shower -    Office (manager’s use only) A fold-away bed can be added to bedrooms 1, 2 and 3. First Floor -    TV lounge with doors leading to sun terrace -    Bedroom 4 with king-size double bed, access to terrace and en suite bathroom with Italian shower -    Bedroom 5 with king-size double bed, access to terrace and en suite bathroom with Italian shower -    Bedroom 6 with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom with Italian shower -    Bedroom 7 with twin beds (can be made up as a double) and en suite bathroom with Italian shower A fold-away bed can be added to bedroom 7. Lower Level (-1) -    Bedroom 8 with king-size double bed -    Bedroom 9 with king-size double bed -    Bathroom with Italian shower -    WC -    Kitchen area Top Level (loft) -    Dorm-style area with four single beds and sofa-bed  -    Bathroom with bath, shower and WC Outside Grounds -    Swimming pool (5x12m, depth: 0.6-1.8m including children’s area) with safety fencing/gate -    Sun-beds (x15) -    Gas plancha -    Large terrace  -    Upper sun terrace (90m2) -    Pétanque pitch -    Table tennis -    Vegetable garden -    Gardens (various levels) -    Access to parkland (235 acres of forests and rivers) -    Car parking area (8 cars) Facilities -    Wi-Fi -    Heating -    Large screen TV -    Bar area (in open kitchen) -    Children’s DVDs -    Books -    Board games -    Outdoor games for children -    Washing machine and dryer Location: In southern France in the foothills of the Pyrenees, close to the border with Spain, Domaine Les Pyrénées is set in 100 acres of pine forests and just 3km to one of France’s classified ‘Plus Beaux Villages’. The small local village, under a 10-minute drive away, is one of the most enchanting medieval villages of the region. In a hillside setting, surrounded by glorious scenery, potter around its cobbled lanes with little artisan shops, studios and restaurants. Perched above the village is a castle which dates as far back as the 10th century – whilst it is not currently open to the public due to renovations, it is a great sight as you gaze up from the village. The nearest town is Thuir (9km) where you will find further useful amenities including a supermarket, a greater choice of restaurants as well as the impressive Théâtre des Aspres which hosts a number of cultural events. Another popular place to visit in Thuir is Caves Byrrh where you can take a tour of the wine cellars and sample their famous wine. Overall, Thuir is an atmospheric town with shady squares, pretty lanes and lovely terrace cafes and restaurants. Furthermore, look out for the wonderful produce for sale at the Saturday morning market. Admire the fascinating rock formations of the Orgues near Ille-sur-Têt, around 30km away, or hike through the stunning landscapes of this region with its woodland, olive groves, vineyards and garrigue. The house-manager will gladly help you with the best routes or assist you with organising horse-riding or mountain biking in the region. Then of course there is the grand city of Perpignan, reached in around half an hour, with its riverside setting, charming medieval quarter, historic cathedral, lively markets and impressive 13th century palace, Palais des Rois de Majorque. There’s a distinct Catalan vibe across the city with North African influences too – seek out some amazing food in the Arabic quarter. If the vibrancy of Perpignan is too much, head to Parc Sant-Vicens for a relaxing walk in picturesque surroundings. The coast can be reached in under an hour with long stretches of sandy shores, beachside restaurants and various watersports. If you prefer wilder beaches, head south of Saint-Marie whilst the beachfronts at Canet-en-Roussillon and Saint Cyprien have plenty of amenities. The gorgeous little town of Céret (40km) is also worthy of a visit with its delightful ambience and Museum of Modern Art featuring works by Picasso, Dali and Matisse as well as local artists. Another artistic gem is the coastal village of Collioure (42km) with its attractive seafront, twice-weekly market and beautiful old town. Other places to consider travelling to include the Cathar castle, Château de Quéribus, around an hour away, incredible gorges for more hiking and swimming opportunities, the magnificent area around Mont Canigou or yet more idyllic mountain villages such as Eus (35km), Villefranche-de-Conflent (45km) and Mosset (50km). Terms & Conditions: ? €3000 paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. 4.00 p.m. 10.00 a.m. Yes. Yes, including mid-stay change. On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. Please note that barbecues are forbidden due to the forest fire risk. When maximum capacity of 24 guests is booked, please note that four guests will be accommodated on a single fold-away bed which can be added to bedrooms 1, 2, 3 and 7. Please see the ’Features’ tab for the full layout of the sleeping areas. Saturday preferred in July and August. Flexible all other periods. Yes and 4 hours maid service included most days. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. Outside only. 7 nights preferred in July and August. 2 nights all other periods. Yes. French Visitors Tax payable locally (typically costs €1-€3 per adult per night- please enquire if exact amount is required). Yes, including mid-stay change. Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming.