Le Jardin Secret
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Overview
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Le Jardin Secret has been blessed with a very special location near Carcassonne, in a small protected and historic Cathar hilltop village and surrounded by rolling hills of woods, fields and wilderness which provide perfect walking paths with views of the Pyrenees, the Black Mountains and the Corbières.
This historic village of only 150 inhabitants, was an important castle and was for a long time the capital of Lauragais and you can still see some of the remains of the old fortifications. The front door of this 18th-century house opens onto the village’s Grande Rue, with all of about 12 houses. Indoors lies a beautifully restored and comfortable family home with stunning open views over the countryside. There are thick, stone walls keeping it fresh in the summer and there is a Jotul wood-burning stove in the living room, which has a fabulous, large South-facing terrace; pigeons bill and coo on the terrace and the birdsong is marvellous.
There is a separate charming and private garden enclosing the fabulous pool, sun terrace and shaded dining terrace and with its spectacular view, this area is truly idyllic.
Just 15 minutes away is the town of Castelnaudary, which has plenty of facilities, good restaurants and is also a major centre for the Canal du Midi. Whilst, most guests like to relax by the pool and on the terrace, there are plenty of walking trails nearby and there is plenty to do and see within easy driving distance, including good skiing only one and a half hours away.
Le Jardin Secret is one of those rare finds where history, beauty, nature and the personal touch of the owners, have created a haven of peace, tranquility and beautiful views in the sun-drenched Languedoc.
What you should know…
- This spacious house is spread over three floors and features several steps and stairs.
- The 'secret garden' with pool is separate to the villa - please refer to 'Features' tab for full details.
- There is parking off-site just 200m or so away.
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
Villa Interior
The villa is located over 3 floors with a separate private garden.
Ground Floor
- Utility room with washing machine, tumble dryer, walk-in hot drying room. iron and ironing board
- Back door leading down the road to the garden and pool
First Floor
- Large entrance hall with a selection of books
- Double bedroom (14m2) with hand basin and private bathroom across the landing
- Bathroom with bath/shower, wash basin and WC
- Double bedroom (16m2) with en-suite bathroom with bath, shower, wash basin and WC
- Twin or double bedroom (10m2) with en-suite bathroom with shower, wash basin and WC
- Twin or double bedroom (14m2) with en-suite bathroom with shower, wash basin and WC
Second Floor
Open-plan living space of 56m2 comprising of:
- Sitting area with comfortable sofas, armchairs, Jotul wood burning stove, plasma screen TV with UK channels, DVD player and a large selection of books.
- Dining area with large table for 10 guests with glass sliding doors opening up onto the terrace.
- Fully equipped kitchen with fridge, electric oven, microwave, electric hob, dishwasher, double sink and separate vegetable sink
- Large landing (14m2) with freestanding freezer and wine fridge
- Guests WC with wash basin
- Terrace with wooden table and chairs, reclining sun loungers and gas barbecue with views over the pool.
Outside Grounds
- Separate fully fenced private garden (30m from the house down an almost unused road)
- Private swimming pool (8x4.5m) open from 1st May to 7th October (cooler months may not be suitable for swimming)
- Wooden terrace
- Sun loungers and parasols
- Al-fresco dining table
- Fridge in the small garden cabin
- Off-site parking (approx. 200m away)
Facilities
- Walk-in drying room
- Hairdryer in each bedroom
- Wood burning stove and logs
- DVD player and DVDs
- Eco-friendly electric radiators
- Fans
- Books
- 5 bicycles
Le Jardin Secret is located in the hilltop village of Laurac in the Languedoc, close to the famous t...
| Nearest Airport |
Carcassone / Toulouse / Perpignan
(35km-30mins / 71km-50mins / 147km-1h25mins) |
| Nearest Village |
Villasavary
(14km-10mins) |
| Nearest Shop |
Villasavary
(7km-13mins) |
Location
About the surrounding area of Le Jardin SecretLe Jardin Secret is located in the hilltop village of Laurac in the Languedoc, close to the famous town of Carcassonne. With a population of about 150 in habitants, this charming village is a totally unspoilt and peaceful destination full of history and beauty. Castelnaudary is the nearest town (20mins away) with three large supermarkets, many bars and restaurants and many other shops, including a weekly market held on Mondays. There is plenty of free car parking within 250 yards of the house.
Within the surrounding area, there is much to see and explore on foot, by bicycle, in a canoe or kayak, or in the car. There are equestrian centres for horse riding in the local area. Similarly, bicycles can be hired in the nearby town of Bram. The cycle route along the Canal du Midi is ideal for all abilities and ages, making a perfect day out for the whole family with a picnic stop along the way! The Languedoc is abundant with hiking trails too, and exploring the region on foot is a lovely, leisurely method to discover the beauty of this region of France.
Vineyards sprawl across the land, and the famous region of Minervois is just beyond Carcassonne. Many local winemakers welcome groups for tours and tastings, and it is said that the best white wines from the South of France are produced here.
It goes without saying that the fortified city of Carcassonne is a must see, there are guided tours and medieval shows throughout the summer to entertain all visitors. There are also many of spectacular castles, abbeys and caves to visit in the area, especially the Grotte de Niaux with its pre-historic drawings.
Toulouse, known as ‘La Ville Rose’ (the pink city) is a vibrant city full of history and culture with many cafes, restaurants, museums and shops. Mirepoix is only 20 mins away and has a beautiful market square and the town of Albi boasts formidable architectural features.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Carcassone / Toulouse / Perpignan
(35km-30mins / 71km-50mins / 147km-1h25mins) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Villasavary
(14km-10mins) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
Villasavary
(7km-13mins) |
||
| Nearest Bar/Pub |
Villasavary
(14km-10mins) |
||
| Nearest Town/City |
Castelnaudary
(15km-20mins) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Intermarche
(12km-10mins) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Castelnaudary
(24km-15mins) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Castelnaudary
(24km-15mins) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf de Carcassonne
(30km-35mins) |
||
| Nearest Tennis |
Tennis Club Castelnaudary
(24km-15mins) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
Narbonne
(97km-1h) |
||
| Nearest Piste |
Ax-les-Thermes
(100km-1h30mins) |
||
| Nearest Ferry Port |
Sete
(170km-1h40mins) |
||
Region
Languedoc-Roussillon is one of those areas of France where you can feel like you’re totally cut off from the rest of the country. Commercial tourism has been very slow to capitalise on the region, meaning you can still enjoy a slice of authentic French rural life at its finest. A mixture of landscapes also makes it a great place to visit, with a good stretch of coastline offering a totally different experience to more bucolic interiors. Whatever you’re looking for, our range of villas and chateaux in Languedoc means you can get exactly the kind of holiday you want with accommodation that’s perfectly tailored to you, your friends and your family.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesBaby and Toddler Equipment
- Stair gates
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Animal farm
- Kid-friendly excursions
- <1hr to Airport
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Board games
- Bicycles Provided
- Fenced Grounds
Services Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting Available
- On-Site Concierge
- Property host
- Catering available (at extra cost)
- Welcome pack
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
Extras available at this property:
- Breakfast
- Maid service
- Deluxe welcome hampre with local delicacies
- Welcome drinks
- Fridge-stocking service
- Private chef
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
| Security deposit | €500 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 | 4.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €500 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 | 4.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes and logs provided. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. A linen/towel change for 2 week stays is also included. |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. |
| Changeover day | Flexible. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes. 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? | Outside only. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately beginning-May to beginning-October. Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 8 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Dec 18th 2024 - Dec 21st 2024 | £923 |
| Dec 21st 2024 - Dec 28th 2024 | £1,845 |
| Dec 28th 2024 - Dec 29th 2024 | £923 |
| Dec 29th 2024 - Apr 26th 2025 | £1,086 |
| Apr 26th 2025 - Jun 28th 2025 | £1,574 |
| Jun 28th 2025 - Sep 29th 2025 | £2,279 |
| Sep 29th 2025 - Oct 29th 2025 | £1,574 |
| Oct 29th 2025 - Dec 20th 2025 | £1,086 |
| Dec 20th 2025 - Dec 27th 2025 | £1,845 |
| Dec 27th 2025 - Jun 21st 2026 | £1,086 |
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.
How long have you owned the property?
We bought the house in 2003 and spent over 2 years restoring it as it was wreck.
What was it about the property that you fir...
Owner Profile
How long have you owned the property?
We bought the house in 2003 and spent over 2 years restoring it as it was wreck.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
A soon as we saw it we had to have it as the views and the countryside around are superb, and as the village is listed as a historic site, it is totally unspoilt. We have created a real family home finished and furnished in a very pleasant and gentle manner which we find wonderfully relaxing.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
The village used to have an important castle and was for a long time the capital of Lauragais to which is gave its name. One can still see remains of the original fortifications.
For anyone coming to stay is there anything in the surrounding area they should...
Really do?
Get up early and visit the local markets. Castelnaudary and Mirepoix markets are every Monday morning.
Really eat?
Cassoulet and regional dishes cooked by our housekeeper!
Really see?
The city of Carcassonne.
What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
Take time to relax and enjoy the stunning views from the terrace.
Reviews
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We had a wonderful time thoroughly recommend a visit!
Le Jardin Secret did not disappoint, the village is beautiful and quiet and the garden is magical, I won’t say anymore than that! My family had a wonderful time thoroughly recommend a visit!
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Just what we wanted for a relaxing getaway
Lovely peaceful place. Beautiful surroundings. Superbly comfortable beds. Excellent veranda area for cooking BBQs.
Friendly and responsive owner. Just what we wanted for a relaxing getaway during the pandemic.
The French were far more responsible with regard to mask wearing, and vaccine passport checking than anything going on in the UK. The supermarkets were fully stocked and everything was easy and smooth.
Loads of space in this house and stayed cool even in 38 degree heatwave.
The pool was clean and refreshing during the heat.
Would definitely return here, it was blissfully relaxing. -
Fantastic stay
Holiday was in a pretty village in great location. The house was fully furnished with everything you could need and the view from pool and balcony was stunning. We had a fantastic stay.
Only small points.. one of the bedrooms did not have a fan which would we useful for future bookings and also the upstairs lounge was very warm despite a fan in use. It would helped if black out blinds could be put down over sliding doors during the day whilst you are out to keep that room cool. -
Possibly the loveliest holiday I have ever had!
everything about the house and area was stunning, but mostly importantly as someone with children it was very practical. Information about the local area and things to do was provided a few weeks earlier which was an inspired idea as meant that I booked things and also had things to look forward to. The house was beautifully done. The living area on the top floor has beautiful views and is wonderfully put together - my son spent a huge amount of time relaxing in the Eames style chair flitting between Minecraft and looking out at the hills. The middle floor ensures cool bedrooms with plenty of bathrooms / showers. And the ground floor is super chilled. Then there is the secret garden which was just magical. I will not divulge it as genuinely a lovely surprise. However it was a wonderful place to decamp to either for an afternoon or at the end of a day trip. For me the house and gardens were absolutely gorgeous and my deepest regret is that we did not enjoy them more. Needless to say that halfway through the holiday I was already looking to rebook for next year. The location was perfect as both practical and beautiful - a stunning home in a tiny French village, but the Intermarche is 10 minutes away! You had medieval church bells but knowing that food and wine was within easy reach. Even the neighbours were chumbly with my very basic French. I genuinely felt as though I had got away from it all, enjoyed a small part of French village life and had a holiday.
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We had an absolutely lovely time!
Both the accommodation and village were absolutely beautiful. We'll definitely recommend it. I just wish we'd been there whilst all the surrounding sunflowers were in bloom. That must look spectacular.
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It was an absolutely wonderful place to stay!
It is a truly authentic experience in a beautiful, peaceful village. The views from the balcony and the pool are exceptional; the interior of the house was nicely decorated and clean; and the concierge/owners were on hand for any questions. The fact that the pool is across a short road was no issue at all; we did not come across anyone else on the road the entire time and it was every bit as good as the pool being directly next to the property. I would not hesitate to come back and would look forward to doing so!"
In terms of improvements I really cannot think of anything; it met or exceeded our expectations in every way. The only tiny thing I would recommend may be to change the driving recommendations slightly. But like I say, that is such a tiny recommendation compared to a wonderful experience! -
Lots of facilities. Great views, a lovely setting.!
Just to say we had a fantastic holiday at Le Jardin Secret. Everything was as as Olivers stated and the pool area is fabulous.
-
We will look to revisit and recommend to others!
The location was as tranquil and peaceful as explained and the surrounding village definitely is a hidden gem with beautiful views and an elegant design throughout. The private garden and pool area was not far from the villa and we enjoyed playing in the pool with the children, soaking up the sunshine on the sun loungers and grabbing a bite to eat in the seating area. The beach hut was very useful for storing water and snacks for the children, and the vast selection of inflatables added to the overall enjoyment. The villa itself was spacious, well equipped and very comfortable. The amenities were clean and easy to use to help contribute to a relaxing holiday. The additional items offered to accomodate our children, made the travelling process much more manageable which is greatly appreciated. The balcony offers an incredible view in which we would enjoyed every evening as the sun set. We were very lucky with the weather during our stay and thoroughly enjoyed the suggestions of sites to visit. Overall a very positive and enjoyable stay at Le Jardin Secret.
-
Lovely Stay!
We have just returned from our holiday and I just wanted to thank you for the use of your gorgeous house. On your villa page, I could see from the photos that your property was lovely but the house and pool exceeded my expectations. Anne Marie and Hubert are such a charming couple and took great care of us during our stay. We were very sad to leave.
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Fabulous!
What a treat! This is a truly fabulous property in the peaceful and beautiful village of Laurac. The house and pool were immaculately presented and far exceeded our expectations. The concierge service was fantastic and we were very well looked after. We took advantage of Anne-Marie’s cooking and I can highly recommend it! The locals were very friendly and welcoming and we were lucky enough to experience the annual fete which was a real treat. The house is in an ideal place for a relaxing get away from it all holiday, but adventures can be found less than an hour away. We visited the bustling city of Toulouse, the ancient medieval city of Carcassonne, the water park on the nearby Lake Cavayere, the beaches at Narbonne, the wine factory in Limoux and lots of the quaint villages nearby. The unique little town of Mirepoix is well worth a visit, and is awash with places to eat. We had 2 weeks here and could easily have filled 2 more! I can not recommend this little hidden gem of a property highly enough. We will definitely be returning!
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Wonderful location and property!
It was a beautiful villa, lovely bedrooms and such stunning views. The village was beautiful and such an amazing place to be able to visit Carcassonne and Mirepoix and the beauty of the place just took our breath away. The secret garden and pool was just amazing and sitting watching the sunset from the balcony was beautiful.
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Such a nice place !
Great location for some R&R. The pool was perfect with weather being hot & humid.
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Wonderful Stay!
We absolutely loved the location, the peace, tranquillity, smell of lavender as you walked down the narrow lanes and the friendly hellos of the locals. The house was perfect of our needs and the pool was most definitely a beautiful secret garden.
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Charming Place!
Nice house and pool in a beautiful, peaceful location!
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All in all an amazing place
We have recently returned from 2 weeks in Laurac as a family of 7 across 3 generations ranging from 4 years to 76. The house is beautiful and no photo of the view from the wonderful terrace could ever do it justice. With 4 en-suite bedrooms, all of which were very comfortable, on the first floor, and a large open plan kitchen/lounge/dining room on the second floor, all of which looked out on to the huge French windows and terrace, we had plenty of room and comfort. The pool set in the secret garden, a short stroll from the house, was perfect for relaxing in, and there is loads of space on the decking for stretching out on the loungers and catching the sun. For shade lovers there is also plenty of this as well as the garden is very well designed.
With loads of amazing places close to Laurac there is loads to do and see, and the village itself is stunning and amazingly quiet. -
Charming!
We stayed here last year and intend to return, and soon. Charming little hilltop village set in beautiful country ...very rural, little fields full of butterflies and wild flowers and lovely autumn fruits to be picked. Old house with Capacious living room and kitchen, and big terrace overlooking beautiful tracts of French country. Wi-Fi, Sky...all you could want. Huge variety of places to visit, vineyards, markets, pretty villages, the cities of Carcassonne and Toulouse to name a few. Delicious restaurants, very good one in Castelnaudary. Very private and cosy garden surrounding the pool..barbeque et al.
You couldn't possibly be disappointed when you arrive in this house, it is everything it says in the brochure. -
Peaceful village and amazign views
Having taken a holiday on the Canal du midi in 2015 my wife and I wanted a base to further explore this beautiful region. I looked for somewhere close to Castelnaudary but with a rural aspect. Boy did we luck out in finding Les Collines. The property has been renovated to a very high standard and the views from the roof terrace are amazing. We could not believe how peaceful the village was and to sit on the terrace watching the sun go down with a glass of wine is bliss itself. We also took full advantage of the private swimming pool which is surrounded by aromatic lavender and rosemary and fresh figs hanging from the fig tree.
The surrounding countryside invites you to explore and this can be done on foot, bicycle or simply by car. You are only less than ten minutes into the nearest large town namely Castelnaudary where you can stock up on supplies, visit bars and restaurants as well as links to Toulouse and the Canal du midi. If you are looking for a peaceful vacation in amazing surroundings with superb weather then look no further. My wife and I would definitely stay here again. -
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the house
The owner was incredibly communicative and helpful, the housekeeper really sweet and welcoming. The bedrooms are all simple and clean with efficient bathrooms and gorgeous shutters. The layout of the house and thick walls meant that the bedrooms were cool even in 35 degree heat. The terrace was great for late evening meals and star gazing and the pool provided hours of fun for us all.
Charming village, super landscape. Really good for walking or running past fields of sunflowers! We were there for 2 weeks and there was plenty to do. Our children's favourite was the Haunted House in Carcasonne!!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
