Villefranche Village House

This 2 bedroom ancient stone house is the perfect mountain retreat for walkers, skiers, cyclists, cavers and explorers. There are fabulous walks all around, a traditional boulangerie and lots of restaurants and bars all within a few paces of the house. Recently modernised but retaining its traditional features, the house is extremely comfortable, the perfect spot to enjoy a peaceful breakfast or "apero" on the balcony. Villefranche is a fortified medieval village packed with history, a UNESCO World heritage site and listed as one of France's most beautiful villages. The famous "Train Jaune" (Yellow Train) winds from the village up through the mountains as far as Andorra. 60,000 visitors come to the village every year, but few stay beyond early evening. So guests can enjoy the buzz during the day and the peaceful evenings and early mornings. Whole house We are not resident in the neighbourhood. The house is entirely yours during your stay. However, there is a housekeeper close by and I am always available by phone, text or (Hidden by Airbnb) . Wifi in the house is better than we have at home in UK! Villefranche is very well served for restaurants, creperies and a famous boulangerie, where you can buy not only your breakfast croissants but also a huge array of quiches, pies and patisserie. Our favourite restaurants are Le Patio and the pizzeria. We enjoy trips to the local markets in Prades (Tuesday mornings) and Vernet les Bains (Saturdays). Don't miss the monasteries at S Martin du Canigou or St Michel de Cuxas. Take the Yellow Train up to Mont Louis or further. Visit the hot springs at S Thomas Les Bains and the fairy chimneys (les Orgues) at Ile Sur Tet. The tourist office at the bottom of the village will show you where all the best walks are. The mediterranean beaches are less than an hour away - and in winter you are just 45 minutes drive from the ski slopes at Font Romeu. A day trip to Barcelona is also a favourite. There are village parking permits for drivers. You can also get to Villefranche by bus or train from Perpignan. All buses are just 1 Euro and they seem to go everywhere. there are lots of great walks directly out of the village, but if you have a car or take a bus many more are available. Check at the tourist office. There are interesting abandoned chapels, fortifications and villages high in the mountains. In spring and summer the mountains are full of flowers, birds and butterflies.