Cottage Des Cathares at Occitanie

With a magical setting, this historical cottage is full of charm and character.  Located in the amazing Cathar country, near the delightful market town of Mirepoix, this is a special place where young and old can stay in this enchanting part of the Languedoc. Built in the 18th century on the estate of an impressive château, yet with its own entrance and garden, this cottage has been a labour of love for the artistic owner who has sensitively restored the place into a warm and welcoming family home. The bright and homely cottage has perfectly modern interiors yet still retains so much character throughout.  Each of the four bedrooms has been decorated in an individual style and feature interesting furnishings, artwork or prints across the walls and a real sense of charm and pride. The cosy living room has a fireplace for cooler months or enjoy the summer with the doors leading straight out on to the gardens. Contemporary bathrooms and a well-equipped kitchen complement the sense of history across this lovely home. The owner can arrange for services such as a private-chef or babysitter to make your stay as relaxing as it can be. The cottage sits near a remarkable thirteenth century castle, Château des Cathares, a ten bedroom family home that can be rented together with the cottage or separately. Outside you can relax in the shady gardens at the front of the cottage or venture further afield.  This region is a hiker’s paradise with rolling hills and valleys full of sunflowers whilst there are also opportunities to cycle, horse-ride or fish nearby. The local village, just five minutes by car, has a bakery, butchers and little grocery store or head to the historical town of Mirepoix, famous for its ancient timer-framed houses and amazing market on a Monday morning in the beautiful square. Food lovers take note that foie gras is produced in the farm just across from the estate and of course there are some stunning wines to sample in vineyards across the Languedoc region. This is the Cathar country with so many spectacular castles and ruins to explore, such as the most famous in nearby Montségur. The incredible fortified city of Carcassonne is just forty-five minutes away, with delightful Limoux and vibrant Toulouse also within an hour’s drive. You may prefer to just head nearer to home such as pretty Castelnaudary (30km), the birthplace of the Cathars, where you can take a boat trip or cycle ride along the Canal du Midi. After a day exploring this outstanding region, you will still feel the spirit of the Cathars in the surrounding area as you return to your lovely cottage, a wonderful place to stay in this very special part of southern France.  Cottage Interior Ground Floor - Entrance Hall - Dining room (14m2) - Living room (15m2) with fire-place and doors leading outside - Kitchen (11m2), well-equipped with breakfast table - Double bedroom (14m2) with en-suite shower room (7m2) - Separate WC First Floor - Bathroom with bath and washbasin - Separate WC - Twin bedroom (16m2) - 2 x Twin bedroom (14m2) - 1 cot available for guests use Outside Grounds - BBQ - Garden Facilities - Wi-Fi - TV and DVD player - Children’s books and toys - Board games - Access to a washing machine