Maison De La Bastide
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As soon as you catch a glimpse of the Art Nouveau façade of Maison de la Bastide, you will be captivated by the historic charm of this unique and beautiful hom...
Read moreOverview
As soon as you catch a glimpse of the Art Nouveau façade of Maison de la Bastide, you will be captivated by the historic charm of this unique and beautiful home in the heart of Carcassonne’s Bastide de Saint Louis, a short walk from La Cité Médiévale.
This Maison de Maître is a listed building protected by the Bâtiments de France and is of great architectural importance – indeed, it’s recognised by the Mairie as one of the most significant houses in the city and has hosted many notable guests over the years.
Be enchanted by its heritage as you step through its historic doors into the gorgeously tiled hallway with light beaming through from the stained-glass window above the sweeping curved staircase, all original features of this 19th century home. Double doors lead through to the inviting lounge and dining area, there’s a characterful kitchen to create feasts using the very best ingredients from Carcassonne’s food markets and the elegant bar is waiting to be stocked with some of the finest wines from Pays d'Oc.
On the first floor, choose between the two graceful king-size bedrooms with historic touches, gorgeous en suites and doors leading out to a balcony overlooking the courtyard garden below. Then there’s the two-bedroom suite with its wrought-iron balcony and lovely shower room or head to the very top of the house for two further en suite doubles, allowing up to 12 guests to sleep across six air-conditioned bedrooms.
The courtyard garden with its al-fresco lounge and dining area is the perfect spot for breakfast or an evening aperitif on warm summer evenings, before strolling out to the abundance of restaurants and wine bars scattered across your neighbourhood. It’s just a 2-minute walk to Place Carnot with its café terraces and don’t miss the bustling market three mornings a week to pick up a wealth of regional French delights.
Strolling towards the Aude and crossing the bridge, you will soon reach La Cité de Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of France’s most visited attractions with its medieval architecture, museums, towers and historic ramparts – book a guided tour to make the most of your time or just explore the narrow lanes to your hearts content.
For a change of scene, hire bikes and set off along the wonderful Canal du Midi or look out for canal boat cruises through the city and beyond. Further afield leaving the city, drive to Cathar castles, Languedoc vineyards, picture-perfect villages and Mediterranean beaches.
You can even hop on the train to admire the rose-tinted city of Toulouse, handsome Narbonne or the pretty surroundings of Castelnaudary, passing undulating landscapes of the Aude region as you go.
What you should know…
- Please note that this property is suitable for children aged 12 and over.
- Air-conditioning is featured in the bedrooms only.
- If you wish to bring or hire a car, there are various car parking options a short distance away (charges will apply locally for some options and check opening times/days). Details can be provided before your stay.
This home is a part of our Great Value Collection!
Our great value homes:
- may be traditionally styled for a laid back feeling
- may have some simple amenities and features
- mean that you can enjoy top holiday destinations for less!
Property Features
Maison Interiors (450m2)
Ground Floor
- Entrance hallway
- Large double reception (or function rooms) with open plan dining area, 50" Smart TV and doors leading to garden and al-fresco dining/seating area
- Smaller reception (at front) with sofa and bar (not stocked) with glassware for use by guests
- Kitchen, fully-equipped including range cooker with gas hobs, three electric ovens, fridge-freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, coffee making facilities and large dresser
- Cloakroom and WC
First Floor (via open staircase with no bannister in parts)
- Bedroom suite with king-size double bed, doors leading to balcony/terrace overlooking rear garden, air-conditioning, coffee machine, mini-fridge and en suite bathroom with roll top bath and shower
- Bedroom suite with double bed, air-conditioning, coffee machine, mini-fridge, marble flooring (and 10cm step), doors leading to balcony/terrace overlooking rear garden and open-plan shower and WC with sink
- 2-bedroom suite, one with king-size double bed and balcony, the other with double bed and Juliet balcony. Both have air-conditioning, mini-fridge, and coffee machine. Shared dressing area and bathroom with shower and WC
Top Floor (at the front of the house, via open staircase with no bannister in parts)
- Bedroom with king-size double bed, air-conditioning, fridge, coffee machine, small balcony and en suite bathroom
- Bedroom with king-size double bed, air-conditioning, fridge, coffee machine, Juliette balcony and en suite bathroom
Outside Grounds
- Courtyard-style garden with raised terrace
- Al-fresco dining and lounge area
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Air-conditioning (bedrooms)
- TV
- Board games
- Washing machine
- Tumble dryer
Location
About the surrounding area of Maison De La BastideSuch a privileged location in central Carcassonne, just a 20-minute stroll from the UNESCO World Heritage site, La Cité de Carcassonne, Maison de la Bastide is a beautiful house in Bastide de Saint Louis, a neighbourhood of bustling restaurants, wine-bars, shops and some of France’s most famous sights. If staying in July, look out for the Festival de Carcassonne and the Bastille Day fireworks which are some of the finest in France.
The train station is a 15-minute walk away with connections to Toulouse and Montpellier whilst Carcassonne Airport can be reached via taxi or airport shuttle in just 30 minutes. If you wish to bring or hire a car, there are various car parking options either underground (charges apply and check the opening times/days) or you could try and find a free space in various car parks across Carcassonne.
In the heart of Bastide de Saint Louis, within two minutes you can be at historic Place Carnot with its grand fountain, café terraces and bustling market on a Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings. Also close by is Les Halles showcasing the very best regional and gourmet produce, open five days a week, whilst there are delectable restaurants dotted across this part of the city. Carcassonne specialities include le cassoulet, pork charcuterie, truffles, chestnuts, regional cheeses as well as pastries and other sweet delights.
Wander towards the Aude river, cross the bridge and within a 20-minute walk you can be in the medieval city, La Cité de Carcassonne, with its 3km long ramparts, many towers and a warren of winding lanes. Explore to your hearts content, visit the citadel’s museums, book a guided tour along the city walls and look out for events taking place from treasure hunts to historic re-enactments. As Europe’s largest fortified city, no wonder it’s one of France’s most visited tourist destinations.
Heading back to the Aude, enjoy a picnic or stroll by the riverside at Parc de Camin del Garric or walk to the other side of Baside de Saint Louis to Port de Carcassonne and the Canal du Midi. Cruise boats offer tours of the canal through central Carcassonne and beyond or arrange bike hire to ride along the tow paths. The keenest of cyclists can challenge themselves to follow tougher Le Tour de France routes across the glorious landscapes of the Aude and Tarn countryside.
For a fantastic day out, other attractions within driving distance of Carcassonne include the Cathar castles of Lastours and Montségur, the vineyards of Languedoc, idyllic villages such as Minerve, Lagrasse and Limoux or the beaches including Gruissan Plage and Leucate, both around an hour away by car. You can also catch a train to the rose-tinted city of Toulouse, taking just 45 minutes, or eastwards to the beautiful city of Narbonne.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Carcassonne Airport
(4km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Béziers Cap d'Agde Airport
(95km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 3 |
Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
(103km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Carcassonne Train Station
(800m) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Local neighbourhood
(Short walk) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Carrefour City
(Short walk ) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf de Carcassonne
(5km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
Gruissan Plage area
(75km) |
||
Region
Whilst most visitors flock to Carcassonne for its fortified citadel, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there is so much to experience across the historic city and its beautiful surroundings.
It goes without saying that the great highlight of Carcassonne is Europe’s largest walled fortress with its warren of winding lanes with cafes and little shops alongside its impressive towers and ramparts – guided tours along the city walls can be arranged. It feels like a fairytale for young and old with knights in armour, horse-drawn carriage rides and fascinating museums.
Look out for festivities and events throughout the year, the most famous being July’s Festival de Carcassonne with cultural and musical events taking place across the city. What’s more, the Bastille Day fireworks are some of the most magnificent in France.
Beyond the citadel, cross the Aude River and soak up the vibrant ambience of Le Bastide de Saint-Louis, a bustling neighbourhood with its own rich heritage. Start at Place Carnot with its café terraces, impressive fountain and wonderful market three mornings or head straight to the gourmet stalls of Les Halles’ covered market. Dine out in atmospheric restaurants serving the best regional cuisine perhaps accompanied by a glass of Minervois, Corbières or other excellent wine from the vineyards surrounding the Cité de Carcassonne.
Then there’s the tranquility of the city's Le Canal du Midi just perfect to explore on foot, by bike or via boat. In one direction you can cycle along the canalside towpath to Castelnaudary, famed for its pretty marina and restaurants serving cassoulet. On another day head east towards Trèbes, Homps, Argens-Minervois and other picture-perfect wine villages across the Hérault’s Minerve region, the perfect trip out from your Carcassonne holiday home.
Kids
Best Suited For: TeensPlease note that Maison De La Bastide is suitable for children aged 12 and over.
Step out of your historic doors and you are in the heart of Carcassonne’s Bastide de Saint Louis, a short stroll from cafes, restaurants, atmospheric markets and shops. How wonderful to be able to explore this part of the city, knowing your maison and courtyard terrace are just a few steps away.
Around a 15-20 minute walk away in the famous Cité de Carcassonne, admire the narrow lanes and little shops, visit one of the many museums, take guided tours of the historic ramparts and look out for street performers and historic re-enactments – look out for family-friendly events, especially in the French school holidays. Youngsters may also enjoy the little road train that takes you from Bastide de Saint Louis to the medieval cité.
There are lots of lovely family walks, either by the Aude riverside (there’s a little playground at both Jardin Bellevue and Parc de Camin del Garric) or along the Canal du Midi, which can also be explored on bike or by boat.
Just outside Carcassonne, Lac de la Cavayère (7km) is home to a tree-top activity centre, lakeside beaches with supervised summer swimming, water-based activities including an inflatable water park and picturesque walking and picnic opportunities.
For a complete change of scene just outside the city, Le Parc Australien features an abundance of Australian wildlife for a unique and fun day out! Alternatively, close to the airport, there’s a go-karting track with mini-kart activities for children (age and height restrictions apply).
Kids Activities Close-by
- Easy By Train
- Walk to Village
- Walk to Restaurant
- <1hr to Airport
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Go-Karting
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Board games
Extras
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- Babysitting/childcare services
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
The architectural magnificence of this historic house in the heart of Carcassonne’s Bastide de Sai...
Read moreEvent information
The architectural magnificence of this historic house in the heart of Carcassonne’s Bastide de Saint Louis will enchant you and your fortunate wedding guests.
Just step through its Art Noveau façade and celebrate your romantic French wedding at this elegant abode surrounded by close family and friends. An intimate event can be set up within this grand maison – after all, important dignitaries and diplomats have been entertained here in the past. Nowadays the house is protected by the Bâtiments de France and recognised as one of the most significant houses in the city.
Indoor Capacity - 25
Outdoor Capacity - 25
Wedding Ceremony and Reception
There is a flexible layout for the ceremony and reception. Please note that Maison De La Bastide is not licensed for official wedding ceremonies on site. For formal and legal French ceremonies, the Mairie is five minutes from the house.
Additional Fees for Events
Pricing is created on request, please enquire for details.
Catering
In-house catering is optional, clients may also choose from a list of recommended suppliers.
Wedding Planning
The venue can help on request with all event needs.
Wedding Packages
The venue can provide extra cleaning on request. Day before and after events are permitted at an extra cost.
Venue Accessibility
The venue is easily accessible by public transportation. There is no on-site parking, but parking facilities within Carcassonne. There is limited wheelchair accessibility, please enquire for details.
Wedding Suppliers
The venue has a range of suppliers for clients to use, but clients are also able to bring their own suppliers.
Flexibility on Duration
Yes, please enquire for details.
Children
Older children are welcome (no event childcare services are available). Please note that Maison De La Bastide is suitable for children aged 12 and over.
Noise Restrictions
Noise restrictions apply due to the central location within Bastide de Saint Louis - please enquire.
Other
There are certain restrictions on decorations and themes - please enquire for details.
There are limited security measures in place (as always, guests are responsible for their belongings).
Please note that any event rental may be subject to additional charges, venue hire fees and to a higher security deposit, which will be in addition to any published rental rates and fees.
All events are on request only and subject to prior agreement from the owner, who reserves the right to refuse all events without their prior authorisation.
| Security deposit | €1000 charged to client’s credit card as a pre-authorisation one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 3.30 p.m - 6.30 p.m |
| Departure time | 10.30 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €1000 charged to client’s credit card as a pre-authorisation one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 3.30 p.m - 6.30 p.m |
| Departure time | 10.30 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Extra €150, paid in advance to Oliver's Travels (this will then be transferred to the owner). However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Smoking Allowed? | No. |
| Pets welcome? | Not allowed. |
| Changeover day | Flexible. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights (June to September) or 3 nights at other times. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Wedding receptions are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges as well as music restrictions. Please note that Maison De La Bastide is not licensed for official wedding ceremonies on site. Stag/hen parties are not allowed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Air-conditioning is featured in six bedrooms only. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Please note that this property is suitable for children aged 12 and over. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 12 people:
| Rental period | 3 Nights | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 30th 2024 - Dec 23rd 2024 | £1,474 | £1,966 | £2,457 | £3,439 |
| Christmas & New Year | £1,622 | £2,162 | £2,703 | £3,783 |
| Jan 6th 2025 - Mar 1st 2025 | £1,474 | £1,966 | £2,457 | £3,439 |
| Mar 1st 2025 - Jun 1st 2025 | £1,622 | £2,162 | £2,702 | £3,783 |
| Jun 1st 2025 - Sep 1st 2025 | - | - | - | £4,127 |
| Sep 1st 2025 - Dec 23rd 2025 | £1,622 | £2,162 | £2,702 | £3,783 |
| Dec 23rd 2025 - Jan 2nd 2026 | £1,769 | £2,359 | £2,948 | £4,127 |
| Jan 2nd 2026 - Jun 3rd 2026 | £1,474 | £1,966 | £2,457 | £3,439 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
• When did you become the owner?
I bought the property at auction in January 2019
• What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
It..
Read moreOwner Profile
• When did you become the owner?
I bought the property at auction in January 2019
• What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
It’s architecture and history. It is the most important house in Carcassonne.
• Are there any interesting stories in its history?
It was the second home of the French Ambassador to Finland who gifted it to his future wife in a prenuptial agreement.
• For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really…
- Must do?
- Cycle along the canal du midi, swim at Carcassonne Plage at the Lac de la Cavayère, go for wine tasting at Chateau de Pannautier, hike around the Cathar castles in Lastours.
- Must eat?
- Oysters at La Cambuse du Saunier, Gruissan Plage. Sunday lunch at La Barbacane. Classic French food at Bistro D’Alice. Escargots Carcassonaise on the terrace at Le Creneu, which has a view of the Castle.
- Must see?
- The mediaeval city. Lastours. Montsegur. Toulouse.
• What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
Explore the secret spots for the amazing wild swimming that are known only to the locals – in the L’Orbieu river at Ribaute, for example.
Reviews
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The highlight of the summer for us all!
We had the very great fortune to stay at Maison de la Bastide this summer, and experience the hospitality of both the Carcassonne region, but also our fabulous hosts, Jane & John, first hand. The house is an excellent base from which to explore the local food and wine options, walk to Midi cruises and picnics and has plenty of outdoor dining and drinking options mere minutes away.
It’s also ideal for getting to the train station, for day trips to Toulouse or to the Mediterranean coast at Narbonne or Sete.
We gathered for a birthday party, and Jane skilfully organised a birthday restaurant for us all, and when it came to inquiries about wine-tasting, Jane and John went over and above to bring us on a private tour, culminating in a delicious meal at their gorgeous home, plying us with amazing cooking and tempting drinks.
Would highly recommend this as a place to stay for a group up to 10 - you won’t disappointed. -
A super choice to stay
A wonderful gem full of interesting furniture and architecture
Jane and John were wonderful hosts and the breakfast was superb. It would have been lovely to have had a little honesty bar in the lounge to have a drink and relax -
A personal home from home break.
An authentic French town house with beautiful architectural features complimented by period furnishings.
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An astonishing place
This is an astonishing place, a beautiful house with antique furniture and a short walk from many restaurants and bars.
Jane and John were perfect hosts, excellent communication and lots of helpful tips. One of the best places I stayed at. -
Amazing
This is an amazing house. Well refurbished. Thanks Paul and Jane. Victor
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Exceptional
Central location, in an historic house. Great buffet continental breakfast. Friendly hosts.
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Spacious and comfortable
Beautiful historic property in the heart of Carcassone. Spacious and comfortable. We couldn’t fault it. John and Jane were wonderful hosts who went out of there way to ensure we had a fantastic stay. Loved Carcassone and it’s surrounding areas and loved the house. Would highly recommend.
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Amazing mansion
Amazing mansion, only word I can use to describe the grand accommodation, which is located in the centre of Carcassonne. Extremely good value for money, with restaurants and sights everywhere.
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Spotless and beautifully restored
We were a large group visiting Carcassonne for a wedding. Paul and Jane’s place was ideal for what we needed - convenient location, massive communal spaces including a courtyard which was lovely to sit in in the morning with large bedrooms with en-suites so we all had a bit of privacy. The house was spotless and beautifully restored. We can’t fault it and felt very lucky to find somewhere so perfect for our stay in Carcassonne!
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Better than the pictures
The house is amazing even better than the pictures suggest. Excellent location and hosting.
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Perfection
Booked Maison De La Bastide for a multigenerational family visit to Carcassonne and it was perfect! The location is excellent - short 10 min walk to the Cité (the castle!) and in the centre of many patisseries, boulangeries, fromageries, and boutique shops. The home itself is spacious and comfortable and provided a lovely refuge for the 12 of us. The hosts were easy to work with and delightful. Highly recommend!
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A true gem
Maison De La Bastide is a true gem and was suitable for our party of 9 who used the location to tour the surrounding area for 2 weeks. The location is perfect easy day trips in all directions with parking nearby. Jane and John couldn’t have been more responsive and made a fabulous private dining experience.
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Unbeatable
If travelling to Carcassonne is always exciting, staying at Maison De La Bastide is the factor that will make your stay unbeatable. It is a period house that has undergone a total and comprehensive reform, bringing it into the 21st century, respecting decorative and architectural elements of great beauty, as well as the furniture, in noble woods, throughout the house. The staircase, the living room, the dining room with its garden patio, are elegant and comfortable common corners. The rooms are wonderful, with specific decoration for each room, upholstered with wonderful fabrics... everything reflects the good taste and personality of the host.
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Rooms were beautiful, spacious and extremely comfortable
The perfect place for a larger group. We enjoyed the property as much as the medieval city. 5mins walk from the airport bus stop or 10mins by taxi to the airport itself, so convenient. Breakfast was bountiful and delicious. Rooms were beautiful, spacious and extremely comfortable. Communication and check-in/out were faultless.
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Fantastic stay
Very convenient location. Less than 2 minutes to a supermarket, 1 minute to the town square with a lovely selection of places to eat and less than 10 minutes to the station. 15 minutes walk to the Cité (chateau), via the old bridge (look out for the nutria in the river), and the old town streets and it doesn't feel like a long walk. Accommodation is very clean and comfortable. Excellent shower and really comfortable beds.
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Definitely recommend for a family group or group of friends.
La Maison De La Bastide is an amazing house with so much character. We rented the whole house, which was just great. The location is perfect and everything is within easy reach. Throughout the booking process and during our stay, the communication was excellent. Definitely recommend for a family group or group of friends.
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5 star experience
This is an exceptional apartment very well located near the main square. Fantastic bedrooms and outdoor area. Amelie met us on arrival and did an exceptional job to make us feel welcome and help us with all our questions. 5 star experience.
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Fabulous house
Highly distinctive and fabulous house. It looks even better in real life than in the pictures!
Great location with lots of good restaurants in close proximity. And of course the citadel is just a 20 min walk away - up the hill.
Easy to park for free just 5 mins walk from the house if you do have a car - but you will not need one in Carcassonne itself.
A very nice touch was allowing my Mum (in her 80's) to sneak in a Siesta before the official check in time by having her room ready in advance. Much appreciated! -
Lovely, comfortable and well equipped
Beautiful stay in this exceptional place in the heart of Carcassonne ! This house is lovely. Very comfortable, it is also very well equipped. The large spaces and many bedrooms and bathrooms are very suitable for large groups and the outside is an additional asset!
Also, a big thank you to Amélie for hosting us! -
Superb
In the heart of the Bastide of Carcassonne, superb house with old-fashioned charm and modern comforts like air conditioning ( pleasant by 38 degrees !). Warm welcome from Amélie, very attentive and very friendly. Thank you. Highly recommended!
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Majestic grandeur
La Maison De La Bastde, for me, is like one of those places that you hope to find and simply stumble upon. And in order to keep it a top secret find, you only tell a select few. The majestic grandeur of this property is nothing short of inspiring. The house was clearly well maintained, very clean and orderly. I enjoyed the attention to detail in the rooms, especially the reinstatement of original features. The location is perfect as all of the local amenities were within reach of the house. I was able to work comfortably from my room, the large communal areas on the ground floor and the charmingly maintained courtyard garden. As much as I love Medieval architecture, I couldn’t come to Carcassonne and not see the sea, which is why I liked the proximity of this property, its close to my favourite beach this side of Ibiza (Biquet Plage, which is only about an hour away by car). Credit to Paul for making sure that my stay was nothing short of perfect. This spot is a gem and I can’t wait to return for another stay!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
