Converted French Village Winery

Behind the original facade of this old village winery La Maison des Barriques has a fabulous contemporary interior. Set in the heart of a quiet hamlet it is just 2 minutes walk to the vineyards and wild countryside and 45 minutes to the Mediterranean The property has been transformed and lovingly renovated to a high standard by the owner, an interior designer. Combining old and new and retaining original features. The living accommodation is on the first and second floors. The ground floor ( or La Cave ) is where the wine was made and where 3 original 2.5mtr diameter oak barrels still remain. Entrance to La Maison des Barriques is via a winding stone staircase onto the terrace. Double doors from the terrace lead into a large bright and airy open plan living/ dining area with an atrium open up to the second floor. Timber screens divide off the kitchen and study areas. Two original fireplaces are main features of this area. A steel and oak staircase takes you up to the second floor with large roof lights. The master bedroom, with king size double bed, has an ensuite shower, wc, wash basin and dressing room. There are large ceiling fans in both bedrooms for those hot sultry nights. The terrace, opens directly off the living area, and is wonderful for eating al fresco. With sun shade for those hot days the terrace looks over the village to the vineyards and hills around. The entire property is available to guests. Parking is available in the local square. During your stay the local neighbours (who are English speaking) are at hand to welcome you to the property. They are a great source local knowledge and can assist with your needs during your visit. This part of the Languedoc boasts a sunny Mediterranean climate with, they say, 300 days of sunshine per year. Summers can be hot but tempered by a breeze. This is a land of contrasts between, the gentle sandy coast with coastal lagoons, the more luscious plain of the river Aude where cherries, apricots and olives grow, where the Canal du Midi meanders serenely, and the rugged interior. A land of vineyards, wine and good food, perfumed garrigue, castles, abbeys, Cathar history, walks, rivers for fishing and swimming, colourful markets with fresh local produce and historic cities such as Roman Nabonne and Carcassonne with its remarkable medieval fortress – one of Europe’s best preserved wall cities. Sporting activities near by include, tennis (in Aigues Vives), water sports, wild swimming and horse riding. Surrounded by pretty vineyards and gentle hills, Paguignan is just 15 minutes from the Cathar village of Minerve, which sits perched on a rock between two deep gorges . Swimming in the river at Biz-Minervois is 10 minutes away and the Mediterranean beaches 45 minutes. The Canal du Midi is 20 minutes away. Aigues Vives, 2 km from Paguignan or a 10 minute bike ride has a Utile mini market (rather like a Spar), post office and two restaurants. There are several other very good restaurants within 5 kms. Local public transport is very limited so a car is essential. These can be hired from the airports. Internet access is available with Wifi code on request. There is a DVD player with projector and a selection of films available for viewing. Underfloor heating throughout the first floor living area. The kitchen is very well equipped including a blender, microwave and large fridge with freezer.