La Reserve Du Golfe

Wander to the end of your vast garden with its majestic maritime pines and paddle in the river at hightide. It’s incredible that this calm setting by the water’s edge is so close to the beautiful town of Vannes.

Located in a peaceful nature reserve, La Reserve Du Golfe is a stylish and contemporary holiday abode not far from the Breton landscapes of the Gulf of Morhiban. The architect-designed house originally dates back to the 1970s and has undergone a remarkable renovation. The ground floor is stunning with its vast open-plan living space featuring chic sofas, a raw oak dining table, Smart TV and windows facing the towering pines and Vincin river.  

Up to 8 guests can sleep across the four comfortable bedrooms (three doubles and a twin) and two modern bathrooms upstairs. You can also make the most of the versatile relaxation space on the top floor (with steps going in to the loft) for board games, yoga and space to work – it can also be set up as a seminar room if needed.

Indeed, with desks in the bedrooms this is a lovely home for both work and play – there’s even an idyllic spot outside by the river’s edge where you can plug your laptop in!

That said, it will be hard not to truly unwind across the 4000m2 of gardens sloping gently down to the water and nature reserve. The scenery changes throughout the day – look out for migratory birds at low tide before paddling or swimming when the tide comes in. At high-tide you can also canoe across the nature reserve before reaching the Gulf of Morhiban in around 15 minutes.

A nearby path takes you towards the Conleau peninsula (part of the GR34 hiking trail) where you can swim in a natural swimming pool in the summer months or enjoy a picnic by the shady pines. There are other beaches dotted across the area within a short drive as well as boat trips to the nearby islands from Vannes. What’s more, the much-loved Carnac Plage is only half an hour away by car and the Quiberon Peninsula is another fine day out.

Meanwhile, you can cycle or drive to the heart of Vannes in just 4km for its vibrant markets, restaurants serving local oysters, magnificent cathedral, impressive fortifications and charming cobbled lanes of half-timbered houses. At the end of a day exploring this historic town, return home and cook up a feast of regional delights and dine al-fresco on the terrace. As evening falls, sit back with a glass of local cider as the pine trees are lit up and soak up the truly magical ambience.