Notes from the host
L'Ecurie
L'Ecurie is a lovingly restored barn that has been converted with all mod-cons, and yet still retains the simple charm of a mountain stone house. There are small steps leading through the gate up to the two pretty sun terraces. The front door leads into the terrace lobby.
. Bedroom one is a double with bathroom with bath and shower en suite.
. Bedroom two is also a double with a larger bathroom with bath and shower en suite.
. The kitchen/living room has stove, fridge/freezer, gas cooker and microwave. There is a CD player and DVD.
. The stable door from lobby leads onto
. Split level terrace, one with wood decking, barbecue and table and chairs, umbrella; the lower terrace is paved in slate and ideal for sunbeds.
Many unusual features have been developed using the original manger rails and a rock feature in bedroom one.
. The cave (basement) has a washing machine and room for storing bikes
. Parking is available immediately outside the property.
Vira is less than an hour's drive from Perpignan: This charming and totally self contained gite is part of 'La Grange', a lovingly converted stone sheep bar in the foothills of the Pyrenees. It is situated in the Pyrenean village of Vira, one of the most picturesque villages in the area and offers lovely views over the surrounding valleys and forests. Forty miles west of Perpignan, Vira is totally unspoilt and is on the edge of the Foret de Boucheville. The small village has a plan d'eau and barbecue area, a delightful church and a marie, where the local mayor and staff are happy to provide all the information visitors require about the many delights of the area.
La Grange hugs the side of the mountain and is situated on the edge of the village.
Unspoilt tracks through the adjoining forest and hills are on the doorstep.
The local area: Vira is an ideal location for country lovers looking for activities such as walking, riding, cycling on the numerous well-marked trails. It is also perfect for those who just want to relax in the sun and enjoy the wonderful wildlife. All around is unspoiled landscape, vineyards, hills, forests, valleys, mountains, rivers, gorges and waterfalls.
In early spring and summer the almond and cherry blossom, wild flowers, herbs, butterflies and bird life are a never-to-be-forgotten experience.
The area enjoys some of the driest and warmest weather in France with blue skies most of the year round. Summer temperatures of around 30 degrees are common with the cool mountain breeze at night being a welcome benefit.
The neighbouring village of Fosse has a free open air pool which is open during the months of July and August.
The Mediterranean sea and long sandy beaches are only 40 miles away and the sea temperatures are warm enough to swim well into October.
Nearby Attractions: The whole region remains very unspoilt, yet offers a wealth of things to do and see. There are stunning Cathar castles to explore, notably Peyreperteuse, Queribus and Puilrens.
At Tautavel is a fascinating museum dedicated to pre-historic man and you can view the ongoing archaeological dig on giant screens.
The area is famous for some fine examples of Roman architecture such as the aqueduct at Ansignan, the abbey at Serrabonne and the thermal baths at Rennes le Bains where you can bathe all year round.
Perpignan the very Catalan capital of the region, is an hour's drive and the beautiful medieval walled city of Carcassonne 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Just south of Perpignan is the quaint historic town of Ceret, home to many impressionist artists who are exhibited in the museum of modern art.
Also for art lovers is the beautiful fishing village of Collioure, which inspired the paintings of Matisse, or the Dali museum at Figueres just across the Spanish border.
S
Hosted bySuzanne Foster
