Domaine Des Aromes
Like it? Add to favourites to compare and share
Overview
As Featured in the Sunday Times
Imagine relaxing on a hillside with an evening picnic accompanied by Languedoc-Roussillon wine as the sun sets in the distance, surrounded by the aromas of wild lavender and thyme, before wandering back to your beautiful French home. With over 600 acres of stunning private land, Domaine Des Arômes is blessed with a very special setting just a short drive from the amazing city of Carcassonne.
There is wonderful natural beauty all around you at this exquisite holiday home. Rest by the glorious swimming pool with its unspoilt views, spend lazy lunches by the barbecue in the poolside summer kitchen with its surround sound system or find a tranquil spot across the large gardens with its terracotta pots bursting with summer colour and lawns dotted with olive and cypress trees. As the evening draws in, gather together with close friends and family on the terrace enjoying feasts of regional delights and fine local wine, then stroll around the beautifully lit gardens whilst gazing at the clear starry skies around you.
The vast domaine stretches even further with vineyards, pine forests, streams and wild garrigue; the estate has been designated a protected conservation zone due to the abundance of flora, fauna and wildlife. A paradise for keen hikers, there are many walks across this 630-acre estate and beyond.
The five-star accoladed home is equally as impressive with its fine antique furnishings, old paintings and precious family treasures alongside great comfort and refined style. An elegant living room, a fantastic lounge with its own home cinema system, a characterful dining room for candle-lit dinners and a superbly equipped kitchen can be found in the main house alongside eight bedrooms, most with their own bathrooms. Ranging from the grand master suite with its emperor sized bed to romantic doubles and pretty twins, many of the bedrooms benefit from lovely views of the lakes, forests or hills. A delightful adjoining cottage offers space for six additional guests, making this an ideal home for a large family gathering or a holiday with good friends.
Despite the solitude of this peaceful location, the grand Cité de Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is just 15km away and waiting to be explored. Across this incredible region you can also discover idyllic Languedoc villages and wild landscapes of rolling hills and vineyards, perfect for walking, cycling, horse-riding and of course wine-tasting.
Within an hour you can be tasting some of the finest sea-food at beachside restaurants by the sandy shores of the Mediterranean or stay closer to home and spend the summer splashing in nearby rivers or discovering lakeside watersports and fun.
In the heart of the Languedoc-Roussillon region, the incredible Domaine Des Arômes allows you to experience this alluring part of southern France and greatly appreciate its authenticity in every way.
What you should know…
- You’ll find eight bedrooms in the main house, two bedrooms in the adjoining cottage and one charming stand-alone bedroom right next to the cottage – see the Features tab for full details.
- In July and August a couple live on site in a separate house.
- As expected in such a vast domaine, children will need to be supervised when exploring outside where they can discover the lake, streams, various levels as well as two horses.
- The owners also ask guests of all ages to be mindful of the many paintings, statues and antiques across their beautiful home.
Property Features
Main House Interiors (1100m2) - eight bedrooms
Ground Floor (split-level)
- Entrance hall
- Living room with fireplace and TV
- Kitchen, fully equipped including dishwasher, high-end cooker and barbecue, TV and table for up to 24 guests (with extension)
- Back kitchen with dishwasher, second cooker, fridge, washer and tumble dryer
- 2 x WCs
Upper Floors (via three sets of staircases, various wings)
- Living room/cinema room with fireplace and surround system
- Master bedroom with emperor-size double bed, living area and en suite bathroom with walk-in shower, bath, double sinks and WC. Door from bathroom leads outside (close to swimming pool)
- Bedroom with double bed and en suite bathroom with bath and WC
- Bedroom with double bed and en suite bathroom with bath and WC
- Bedroom with double bed and private bathroom (across hallway) with bath and WC. Sloping ceiling and courtyard view
- Bedroom with twin beds and juliet style window/balcony
- Bathroom with bath and WC (shared between the twin bedrooms)
- Bedroom with twin beds with sloping ceilings and small window (this bedroom is on the top floor, accessed via stairs near the other twin bedroom)
- Bedroom with queen-size double bed and en suite bathroom with bath/shower and WC. Leads to turret with table and chairs
- Bedroom with four-poster double bed, sofa and en suite bathroom with bath/shower and WC
Separate Cottage Interiors (accessible to guests with limited mobility) - two bedrooms
- Living room with sofas and TV
- Kitchen-diner, fully equipped
- Bedroom with double bed
- Bedroom with twin beds
- Bathroom with bath and WC
- Courtyard with outside dining area
Stand-alone Bedroom (just outside the cottage, uses cottage bathroom) - one bedroom
- Bedroom with twin beds
Outside Grounds
- Swimming pool (7x16m, depth: 1.2-2.5m) with two safety alarms. Open approximately April to October
- Sun-loungers (x18) and deck-chairs
- Pool house with BBQ, al-fresco dining area and surround system
- Terrace with al-fresco dining area (for up to 22)
- Second BBQ
- Courtyard
- Outside games
- Garden (10 acres)
- Private land (630 acres) with streams, lake, woodland, hills, two grazing horses
- Outbuildings
- Caretakers' lodge
- Private parking
Facilities
- Wi-Fi (via satellite) in main house, cottage and pool house
- Heating
- 3 x working fireplaces
- Fans (bedrooms)
- TVs (with International channels)
- Cinema room with DVD/CD player and surround system
- PS4 in cinema room
- Hi-Fi
- Surround system (pool house)
- Board games
- Books and DVDs
- Outside games
- Table tennis
- Hairdryers (in bathrooms)
- Washing machine and dryer
Location
About the surrounding area of Domaine Des AromesSurrounded by over 600 acres of private land, Domaine Des Arômes is a rural paradise in the dreamy Languedoc countryside, yet only 15km from the fine historic city of Carcassonne.
There is already so much to see in the stunning grounds, whether exploring the pine-filled forests, discovering the small lake and streams or walking across the garrigue-covered hills. Come across wild lavender and thyme, olive trees, vines and glorious meadows. Discover the abundance of wildlife, flora and fauna (this is a protected conservation zone) and spot rare birds. Take an evening picnic up to the top of a hill and watch the sun set.
Keen hikers can also follow some wonderful trails in the surrounding area whilst cyclists can ride various routes and discover the breath-taking scenery (bike hire, including electric and mountain bikes, can be arranged with plenty of advance notice). There is also an equestrian centre in one of the local villages, offering treks for all abilities which the owners can help book for you (this area is known for horses grazing on the pastures - there are even two rescued horses within the domaine).
The nearest villages are around a 10 to 15-minute drive away where you will find small grocery stores, a boulangerie for morning bread and pastries as well as a couple of restaurants. Larger supermarkets can be found towards Trèbes and Carcassonne. In the great city of Carcassonne itself you will find a range of amazing restaurants, some featuring Michelin stars, as well as wonderful markets selling fruit, vegetables, local meats, cheeses and all sorts of regional delights.
The medieval Cité de Carcassonne is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts visitors from all over the world. Walk along the citadel’s 3km long walls, explore the narrow lanes filled with little shops, bars and restaurants and visit its museums. In July look out for the Festival de Carcassonne as well as the Bastille Day fireworks, some of the best in France.
There are also many idyllic villages across the Languedoc. Visit the beautiful abbey in Lagrasse, also a great spot for summer riving swimming in L’Orbieu (or head up to nearby Ribaute where you can cool off by the little waterfalls).
The Minervois region offers spectacular landscapes, wild gorges and pretty villages such as Aigne with its wine-tasting caves and Minerve, one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’ with a fascinating Cathar history. There are of course many Cathar fortresses across this part of France including the famous Château de Quéribus and Château de Montségur.
Limoux is home to some excellent restaurants, has a lovely weekly market on a Monday morning and hosts some great wine-festivals in the summer. Toulouse, the ‘rose-city’ is another fantastic day out with its historic sights and brilliant shops.
Beach-lovers can be by the sea in an hour with the likes of Gruissan Plage just outside of Narbonne and the coastline around the Parc Naturel Régional de la Narbonnaise easily reached. Leucate Plage is an especially picturesque spot with an excellent beachside bistro serving freshly caught seafood and other delights.
Closer to home, other activities nearby include an 18-hole golf course in beautiful surroundings, tennis courts in Carcassonne as well as go-karting, a tree-top activity centre, an aquapark at a local lake as well as kayaking and canoeing on nearby rivers. If staying in the winter then Les Monts d'Olmes offers skiing on the edge of the Pyrenees, just under two hours by car.
Local Amenities | |||
---|---|---|---|
Nearest Airport |
Carcassonne Airport
(21km) |
||
Nearest Airport 2 |
Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
(120km) |
||
Nearest Train Station |
Gare de Carcassonne
(17km) |
||
Nearest Restaurant |
Local village
(4km) |
||
Nearest Village |
(4km) |
||
Nearest Shop |
(4km) |
||
Nearest Supermarket |
(8km) |
||
Nearest Town/City |
Carcassonne
(15km) |
||
Nearest Golf |
Le Domaine d'Auriac
(16km) |
||
Nearest Tennis |
Carcassonne
(16km) |
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: All AgesThere is plenty to explore in the Cité de Carcassonne, whether it’s walking along the ramparts, exploring the narrow lanes of the citadel filled with charming shops that will delight children or visiting one of the museums. Look out for street performers and there are plenty of educational tours created with children in mind, especially during the French holidays.
Young historians can also visit some of the most famous Cathar fortresses across the area including the most famous Château de Quéribus and Château de Montségur for an amazing day out.
There are also so many fun activities close by such as horse-riding with an equestrian centre in the local village (minimum age 5 years), a go-karting track in Carcassonne and tennis courts in the town. Look out for the brilliant tree-top adventure centre with activities for all ages.
Within walking distance of the domaine, or a short drive away, there is a beautiful lake with an aquapark, lakeside beaches and stunning nature.
You’ll also find rock climbing, canyoning as well as canoeing, kayaking and river swimming across the region. Also, don’t forget how close you are to the coast – you can reach the sandy shores of the Mediterranean in around an hour where you can discover yet more watersports and seaside fun.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Bibs
- Plastic crockery
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- <1hr to Airport
- Watersports
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Go-Karting
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Board games
- Children's books
- Children's videos/DVDs
- Xbox/Playstation/Wii
- Child-Safe Pool
- Indoor Games
- Outdoor Games
- Table Tennis
- Home Cinema
- DVD
Services Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting Available
Oliver's Extras
- Cooking Classes Available
- Wine-Tasting Available
- Transfers Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting Available
- Maid Service Included (June to September only)
- Bike-Hire and Horse-Riding Available
- Restaurant/Activity Reservations Available
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From pr...
Read moreExtras
Oliver's Extras
- Cooking Classes Available
- Wine-Tasting Available
- Transfers Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting Available
- Maid Service Included (June to September only)
- Bike-Hire and Horse-Riding Available
- Restaurant/Activity Reservations Available
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 included at this property:
- High-quality toiletries in bathrooms
- Maid service, Monday-Friday mornings (June to September only)
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Bike hire
- Chef service
- Cooking lessons
- Wine tours
- Babysitting
- Extra cleaning and laundry
- Car hire / travel booking
- Restaurant reservations
- Horse-riding treks
- Booking of other activities
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 | €750 paid via cheque or bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded within 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 | €750 paid via cheque or bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded within 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? | Included from November - April approximately. |
End of stay cleaning included? | Extra €750, payable locally. 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. |
Linen & towels included? | Yes. |
Pool towels included? | Yes. Please note that pool towels are not to be used at the beach. |
Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately April to 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. |
Changeover day | Saturday during July & August. Flexible during all other periods. |
Minimum stay | 7 nights from June – September and over Christmas and New Year. 4/5 nights during all other periods. |
Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
Pets welcome? | Small well-behaved dogs may be accepted on request only and with prior agreement with the owner. Please note dogs are not allowed in the bedrooms and please ensure they do not chase the two horses in the grounds (around 200m away from the house). |
Other Ts and Cs | Small weddings outside peak season are possible on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. Stag/hen parties and other events are not allowed. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 22 people:
Rental period | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
---|---|---|---|
Oct 9th 2024 - Nov 1st 2024 | £3,329 | £4,162 | £5,826 |
Nov 1st 2024 - Dec 22nd 2024 | £2,854 | £3,567 | £4,994 |
Dec 22nd 2024 - Jan 4th 2025 | - | - | £16,645 |
Jan 4th 2025 - Mar 1st 2025 | £2,854 | £3,567 | £4,994 |
Mar 1st 2025 - Mar 30th 2025 | £3,329 | £4,162 | £5,826 |
Mar 30th 2025 - Apr 13th 2025 | - | £12,385 | £17,339 |
Apr 13th 2025 - May 1st 2025 | £4,023 | £5,029 | £7,040 |
May 1st 2025 - Jun 1st 2025 | £5,707 | £7,134 | £9,987 |
Jun 1st 2025 - Jul 1st 2025 | - | - | £14,981 |
Jul 1st 2025 - Aug 1st 2025 | - | - | £16,645 |
Aug 1st 2025 - Sep 1st 2025 | - | - | £18,310 |
Sep 1st 2025 - Oct 1st 2025 | £5,707 | £7,134 | £9,987 |
Oct 1st 2025 - Nov 1st 2025 | £3,329 | £4,162 | £5,826 |
Nov 1st 2025 - Dec 22nd 2025 | £2,854 | £3,567 | £4,994 |
Dec 22nd 2025 - Apr 12th 2026 | - | - | £16,645 |
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?
My mother and father bought the house and estate in 1999, after selling their other fabulous home in the...
Read moreOwner Profile
· How long have you owned the property?
My mother and father bought the house and estate in 1999, after selling their other fabulous home in the same region. When my late mother died a few years ago, my sister Rosie and I took over part of the ownership.
· What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
My parents were in search of another challenge and adventure when they sold their previous property, another beautiful 8 bedroom Domaine. They wanted more land however (we are all very keen riders!) and loved this wild and untouched area of France, with weather that was similar to Provence and with food just as good, but without the masses of tourists you see there. Domaine Des Arômes was a ruin and in a very basic state when they bought it in 1999, but the views were absolutely breathtaking and you could feel the wildlife and nature all around you, they were sold. It also came with 630 acres of private land, with some vines and olive groves, and so they felt they could turn it into a truly special home.
· Are there any interesting stories in its history?
The oldest part of the main house dates back to the early 18th century, and remainder of the house was rebuilt in the early 19th century. The estate originally belonged to the noble family of Chambourcy de Sorgue, who were related to the royal French Bourbon family, who used the Domaine at their shooting estate. The surrounding area and estate has a very rich history, and we have uncovered archives going back as far as 1225 (old ruins remain dotted around the estate, now piles of rubble but once little houses). We also have found many old pieces of Roman pottery and coins, Romans had a strong presence in the region, and we even found an emperess Faustina coin. The area is also famed for its rich Cathar heritage. The Cathars were part of a Christian dualist movement that was persecuted by the Catholic Church between the 12th and 14th centuries. Many of the ruins of the wars against the Cathars are still visible today, and include the magnificent castles of Quéribus and Montségur, which are both perched on the side of precipitous drops in the last folds of the Corbières mountains.
· Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
Last year we had supermodel Lara Stone come and stay with her son and boyfriend David for a week, along with some great friends of theirs.
· For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really…
- Must do?
When at the house, pick an evening and walk up to the top of Montahut est, the hill opposite the pool, absolutely take a little picnic and perhaps a bottle of rosé and watch the sunset. It’s mesmerising and you can see the whole region from up there, even the Pyrenees on a clear day. Another must is a day at Biquet Plage beach, at Biquet’s restaurant, who serves lovely fresh seafood and tapas in a very relaxed and charming setting, where children and adults alike can swim in the sea. There are too many activities to list but we also highly recommend a wine tasting at one of the many local wineries, we can recommend a great few. The Languedoc is the biggest wine-producing region in France, and some wines are really exceptional.
- Must eat?
The local specialty dish is cassoulet, which is a hearty stew and is served in all the local bistrots. For something a little more refined there are also lots of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from in the local area, we have lots of recommendations.
- Must see?
A trip to the village of Lagrasse is a must, we love it there! It is a wonderful little medieval village, voted one of the most beautiful in France. It seems as though time has stopped there, with a little market on Saturday and a local couple offering some of the best coffee I have ever had from a mobile coffee shop. The village also has all manner of little restaurants, cafes, and artisanal shops. You can also spot the monks throughout the village and the old Abbey. Really a lovely day out and it’s so beautiful. Of course, Carcassonne and its walled citadel is another must see! Don’t leave without going to the Cité de Carcassonne and exploring its ramparts and cobbled streets, buzzing with cafés and restaurants and shops – another step back in time.
· What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
In summer the area become alive with villages festivals and ferias! Don’t miss out on the 14th of July in particular, Carcassonne does an incredible firework display.
Reviews
-
A unique property
It is a unique property - rambling, rustic and magical. It was cool at night - and conducive to long dinners, great conversation, great jogging, swimming, and a location in the middle of a truly memorable part of France.
-
Wonderful
It's wonderful.
-
Heaven On Earth
A little corner of heaven on earth! The owners welcomed us to this magnificent residence with much kindness and generosity. The house and estate are even more beautiful in real life. We took advantage of the location to relax whilst discovering Carcassonne and the surrounding area. The quality of the facilities was far superior than our expectations. We had an excellent stay with our family and will very gladly go back with our friends!
-
Sublime House
We were welcomed with remarkable kindness and the hosts were very attentive. The property was simply wonderful, and the house in which we were staying was sublime. We came with our family and will be coming back soon.
-
Impossible to Leave!
Stunning location in the middle of nature, whilst being very close to Carcassonne. Our hosts were very friendly, attentive to small caring details and quickly responded. It was impossible to leave the pool, its pool house, and barbecue. As soon as you have tried it you will want to come back.
-
What a House!
Stunning place in most beautiful location - what a house!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.