Villa Barbacane
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It is such a privilege to be able to stay a short stroll from La Cité de Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site, yet still be surrounded by the rural beauty...
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It is such a privilege to be able to stay a short stroll from La Cité de Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site, yet still be surrounded by the rural beauty of southern France. Imagine being able to gaze at the ancient ramparts from your heated swimming pool and garden terrace, let alone the view of the fireworks on Bastille Day!
It’s not only Villa Barbacane’s wonderful setting that will impress you, but its tasteful interiors as well. The state-of-the-art kitchen allows for sociable cooking and dining with its large central island whilst the lounge looks out towards the south-facing terrace and distant Pyrenees. On the lower floor, kick back in the stylish TV lounge as children enjoy the games room with table football and board games. Five comfortable bedrooms also await sleeping up to 12 guests with flexible sleeping arrangements, each bedroom featuring wonderful cité or mountain views alongside en suite shower rooms and air-conditioning.
Outside, enjoy the privacy of your garden beneath the young plane trees or dine al-fresco on the sunny east terrace. There’s a boules court with a stunning view as well as children’s play area whilst the garden terrace facing La Cité Médiévale is a beautiful place to enjoy a glass of Carcassonne wine with such magical vistas. You can also catch a glimpse of the ramparts from the heated salt-water swimming pool and poolside hot tub.
Stroll along the country lane passing vineyards and within 5 minutes you will be standing by the largest fortified city in Europe. Wander through the imposing Porte Narbonnaise to be greeted with a warren of medieval lanes with inviting shops, cafes, restaurants and museums amongst the stone houses and historic buildings. A tour of the ramparts is a must and look out for historic re-enactments and other festivities across the citadel, especially in the height of the summer.
The charm of Carcassonne continues after crossing the Aude River and wandering towards Bastide de Saint Louis, home to atmospheric Place Carnot with its café terraces, grand fountain and thrice-weekly market. There are yet more fantastic restaurants here as well – try local specialities such as le cassoulet, chestnuts, truffles, regional cheeses and charcuterie as well as a wealth of sweet delights.
A little further is the Port de Carcassonne and the Canal du Midi, a perfect place for boat rides and cycling along the tow paths. A train station also awaits, whisking you away to Castelnaudary, Toulouse, Narbonne and beyond or drive to some of the Aude and Tarn’s most idyllic villages, vineyards, Cathar castles and even the Languedoc beaches on the Mediterranean coast.
What you should know…
- Air-conditioning is featured throughout except in the TV/Games room.
Property Features
Villa Interiors (210m2)
Main Floor
- Lounge with sofa and satellite TV
- Kitchen, fully-equipped including central island and stools (x12), American fridge, induction hob, oven, microwave, dishwasher, toaster, kettle, espresso machine and coffee maker
- Bedroom with king-size double bed (can be split into twin) and bathroom with shower and sink
- Separate WC
First Floor
- Bedroom with king-size double bed (can be split into twin), desk and bathroom with shower and sink
- Bedroom with king-size double bed (can be split into twin), desk and bathroom with shower and sink
- Bedroom with king-size double bed (can be split into twin), single bed and bathroom with shower, sink and private WC
- Bedroom with king-size double bed (can be split into twin), single bed and bathroom with shower, sink and private WC
- Separate WC
Basement
- Games area with table football
- TV room with satellite TV, DVD player, board games and brochures/guides on region
- Laundry room with washing machine, dryer and second fridge
Outside Grounds (11,000m2)
- Heated salt-water swimming pool (9x4m, depth: max 1.4m) with electric safety shutter. Open approximately early April to end-October
- Poolside terrace with 5-person hot tub
- Al-fresco dining terrace
- Al-fresco lounge area
- Barbecue-grill
- Boules
- Table tennis
- Garden (partially artificial grass) leading to surrounding fields
- Outdoor play area
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Heating/Air-conditioning (except games/TV room)
- Satellite TV
- DVD player
- JBL speaker
- Table football
- Table tennis
- Boules
- Board games
- Washing machine and dryer
Location
About the surrounding area of Villa BarbacaneVilla Barbacane enjoys an incredible location, in a private setting surrounded by rural fields yet just a 5-minute walk from La Cité de Carcassonne.
At the end of your driveway, stroll down the country road (no pavement) passing a vineyard and within five minutes you will be by the ramparts of La Cité Médiévale, the largest medieval citadel in Europe, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of France’s most visited tourist destinations.
Via the grand Porte Narbonnaise (500m), wander into the citadel and discover a maze of medieval lanes, little squares, cafés, inviting shops, restaurants and museums. Tour the ramparts, visit the castle and look out for historic re-enactments taking place, especially in the French school holidays and summertime. It really is a special place to explore and it’s wonderful to be able to experience the citadel in the early morning and at night time, either side of the many day-trippers.
Crossing the Aude River via the Pont Vieux bridge (1.3km), continue to be charmed by Carcassonne as you potter around the Bastide de Saint Louis with its large square, Place Carnot, home to terrace cafes, a grand fountain and a market that takes place on Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday mornings. You will soon reach Port de Carcassonne (2.5km) and the Canal du Midi, perfect for cycling or walking along the tow paths and boat trips along France’s famous canal.
The train station (2.5km) can also be found by the Canal du Midi – if travelling without a car then consider hopping on a train to visit Castelnaudary for lunch to try its cassoulet by the town’s Grand Bassin, or continue on towards rose-hued Toulouse, a handsome historic city and a fine day out. In the other direction by train is beautiful Narbonne and its famous gothic cathedral, as well as Port La Nouvelle on the Mediterranean coast.
If driving, then there is so much more of this glorious region to discover. Spend the day visiting Languedoc vineyards, gorgeous villages such as Limoux (27km), Lagrasse (35km) and Minerve (50km) or the imposing Cathar castles of Lastours (20km) and even Montségur (77km).
The Mediterranean also awaits - Gruissan Plage is under an hour by car, as is the charming resort of Leucate, loved for its kite-surfing, sand-yachting, paddle-boarding and long sandy beaches.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Carcassonne Airport
(8km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Béziers Cap d'Agde Airport
(95km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Gare de Carcassonne
(2.5km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
In the Cité de Carcassonne
(500m) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
In the Cité de Carcassonne
(500m) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Outskirts of Carcassonne
(2-3km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf de Carcassonne
(4.5km) |
||
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesHow amazing to be able to stroll just five minutes to one of France’s most visited destinations, La Cité de Carcassonne.
Families will adore pottering around its medieval lanes whilst visiting its restaurants and little shops. Take a guided tour of the historic ramparts and look out for a range of street performers and historic re-enactments across the citadel, especially in the French school holidays.
A little road train connects the citadel to the other part of the city, the Bastide de Saint Louis, home to yet more wonderful shops, restaurants, a vibrant market and more.
Discover the little playgrounds at Parc de Camin del Garric and Jardin Bellevue and enjoy leisurely walks by the Aude riverside. The nearby Canal du Midi is best explored by boat or hire bikes to cycle along its tow paths.
Outside of the city, visit the amazing caves at Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine, a paradise for young adventurers with its walkways, accrobranche style trail (aged 12+) and underground river for canoeing (aged 10+).
Across the nearby countryside, there are ample horse-riding opportunities as well as canoeing/kayaking along the Aude River in Eaurizon, less than half an hour away.
Slightly closer to home, find summer water-based activities, supervised swimming, an inflatable waterpark, a tree-top activity centre and lovely lakeside walks at Lac de la Cavayère, around a 10-minute drive away – check opening dates/times in advance. Le Parc Australien, home to a range of Australian wildlife, could be another fun trip out with the family and there is a chance to drive go-karts near the airport!
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Easy By Train
- Walk to Village
- Walk to Restaurant
- <1hr to Airport
- Watersports
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Go-Karting
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Swings
- Slide
- Boules/Petanque
- Board games
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- Games Room
- Indoor Games
- Outdoor Games
- Table Tennis
- Table Football
- DVD
Services Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Pre-Stocked Fridge Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Bike Hire 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
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Extra cleaning
- Private chef
- Bike hire
- Shopping
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 | €2000 paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. - 8.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 8.00 a.m. - 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €2000 paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. - 8.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 8.00 a.m. - 10.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. Changed once for stays of over 14 nights. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes and mid-stay clean if staying more than 14 nights. 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. |
| Pool heating charge? | Included. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately early April to end-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. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax payable locally (typically costs €1-€5 per adult per night- please enquire if exact amount is required). |
| Changeover day | Flexible. Please note that it is not possible to arrive/depart on the 20th April/14th July/ 24th, 25th, 31st December or 1st January. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Air-conditioning is not featured in the games/TV room. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Please note that changeover is not possible on the 30th and 31st December. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 12 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Apr 25th 2024 - May 31st 2024 | £5,642 |
| May 31st 2024 - Jul 6th 2024 | £7,001 |
| Jul 6th 2024 - Jul 13th 2024 | £9,926 |
| Jul 13th 2024 - Jul 20th 2024 | £11,493 |
| Jul 20th 2024 - Aug 28th 2024 | £9,926 |
| Aug 28th 2024 - Sep 28th 2024 | £7,001 |
| Sep 28th 2024 - Nov 3rd 2024 | £4,702 |
| Nov 3rd 2024 - Dec 20th 2024 | £3,762 |
| Dec 20th 2024 - Dec 27th 2024 | £4,702 |
| Dec 27th 2024 - Jan 5th 2025 | £5,642 |
| Jan 5th 2025 - Apr 5th 2025 | £3,762 |
| Apr 5th 2025 - May 1st 2025 | £4,807 |
| May 1st 2025 - May 12th 2025 | £6,374 |
| May 12th 2025 - May 23rd 2025 | £5,851 |
| May 23rd 2025 - Jul 1st 2025 | £7,314 |
| Jul 1st 2025 - Jul 10th 2025 | £10,448 |
| Jul 10th 2025 - Jul 18th 2025 | £12,016 |
| Jul 18th 2025 - Aug 30th 2025 | £10,448 |
| Aug 30th 2025 - Oct 1st 2025 | £7,314 |
| Oct 1st 2025 - Oct 27th 2025 | £4,807 |
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.
Reviews
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Real immersion in the French countryside
A genuine pleasure to stay at Villa Barbacane. Everything has been thought of, everything provided that you could possibly need and the presentation and attention to detail is faultless. Spectacular views of La Cité and the house is surrounded by vineyards - a real immersion in the French countryside. Merci à l’hôte et son équipe pour un séjour incroyable !
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Exceptional
The location is ideal, the warm welcome, the cottage perfectly equipped, the cleaning impeccable. A safe address for a successful stay!
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Outstanding view!
We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful villa. The property had ample room for our party of 10, lots of seating areas inside and out, and a great pool and spa. The bedrooms were spacious, and the beds very comfortable. The villa is a short stroll to town, but we spent most of our time enjoying the villa. The view is outstanding!
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Special holiday venue in a perfect country location
We stayed in this wonderful villa in May 2023 for a week and it fulfilled and exceeded all the promises made on the booking website. We travelled as a 3 generational family consisting of ourselves (grandparents) our 2 sons and their wives, and 4 grandchildren aged 6,7,8, and 9. This stunning villa provides staggering panoramic views of the citadel of Carcassonne from the peace and tranquility of a its perfect country location less than 5 minute’s walk down a quiet country lane. The facilities it offers guarantee a memorable stay for all age groups, providing activities to keep 4 very active and enthusiastic children entertained at all times, and peace and quiet for the adults. The host is very caring and considerate and has created a special holiday venue in a perfect country location surrounded by vineyards on all sides. We were so impressed that we collectively agreed whilst still there to book again for next year but this time for 10 days. 5 star billing is not enough!!!! Rooms: The rooms are large and comfortable with great views. Walkability: The location is perfect for visiting Carcassonne on foot.
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Breathtaking views
Amazing property, as you see it in the pictures but even better in real life. The views from the property are breathtaking. The owner was always available when we needed help or advice. Slight issues were rectified quickly. Walking distance to la cite and its myriad of restaurants and cafes - would recommend a visit to Comte Roger. Lots of space in the house for the kids to play downstairs when it rained and for the adults to not feel on top of each other. We were very unlucky with the weather so did not get a chance to enjoy the pool or hot tub unfortunately. But that just means we will have to return. Marvelous - Merci beaucoup!
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Perfect destination for a dream family vacation
Magnificent large house in a magnificent location too, from the City in the foreground to the snow-capped Pyrenees in the distance...Everything is done to make visitors immediately feel "at home"... In a word, a destination perfect for a dream family stay. Without forgetting the welcome of the hosts, matching the quality of the accommodation... Really great!
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Perfection
Rental as part of a family event, for a few days, in this superbly appointed residence. It's perfection on every level: magical places, availability of the host, amenities, additional services. Recommended ++++
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Fantastic!
The host was great and the property is fantastic! The house was spotless, spacious and has everything you need for a luxurious stay. Great for the whole family and felt like a home away from home. The photos really don’t do the location justice it is really close to the city walls with great views of it. Easy to walk anywhere in the city and can’t wait to stay again.
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I will come back with great pleasure
After a week spent in this magnificent Gîte - in the suite facing the City - I am totally won over. Very good services, impeccable quality both inside and out, and above all, above all; the magic of the City, so close that you feel like you can touch it with your finger. I will come back with great pleasure. THANKS!
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Magnificent villa!
The villa is magnificent and very pleasant to live in! There are all the comforts to live there! We had a very good stay and we will come back!
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Everything was perfect
The house conforms to the photos. The place is superb, the house very well equipped. We went there with friends with children, and everything was perfect. The house is friendly, while providing space for everyone. The host is accommodating. I highly recommend. You can go there with your eyes closed.
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