Le Cheval Aux Vignes

After a day out exploring the idyllic Languedoc vineyards, return to your charming village house and drink local wine by the swimming pool, knowing that you’re staying in an original Maison Vigneronne with the wine caves perfectly preserved from the 1900s.

This wine-makers home was built in the early 20th century out of local stone and until recently the wine was stored in the tanks (cuves) which you can see on the ground floor. The owners have respected the home’s history and retained much of its traditions whilst adding its own unique character with fascinating objets exhibiting their love of antiques. Sip your morning coffee by the breakfast bar with stools from an old French cruise ship, dine by night under the chic lights from a Parisian restaurant and there’s a 1950s child’s lounge chair and coffee table in the stylish living room.

French windows open up to a Juliet balcony from the living room and bedrooms, bringing light into the first-floor rooms. Admire the grand English wardrobe and Japanese lamps, also from 20th century cruise ships, in the spacious twin bedroom whilst the 19th century mirror in the romantic en-suite double is sure to impress. Amenities such as air-conditioning, satellite TV and Blu-ray/DVD player bring in 21st century comforts alongside classic table football and a 70-year old pinball machine for old-fashioned fun!

It’s wonderful to have a swimming pool in the courtyard garden, a particular treat for a village maison, especially as it can be heated at certain times. There’s also a little barbecue and a lovely area to sit in the sun or relax under the mulberry trees in this picturesque setting.

The village has everything you need from a boulangerie to bistro as well as a handful of small shops. It’s only a short drive or bus ride away to Pézenas with its historic architecture, atmospheric lanes filled with pretty boutiques and art galleries as well as its famous Saturday morning market. Other wonderful places to visit include Béziers, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert and even Carcassonne, the latter two being UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Local rivers offer swimming and fishing whilst Lac de Salagou is an incredible place for walking, mountain biking and watersports. Seafood lovers can enjoy lunch by the Étang de Thau in Mèze or take a boat across the lagoon discover the oyster beds in Bouzigues. The beaches of Cap d’Agade and Marseillan Plage are also within half an hour where you will find long stretches of coastline, great beachside restaurants and a wealth of family-friendly activities.

With so much of Languedoc to discover, Le Cheval Aux Vignes is superbly placed to enjoy traditional village life alongside the delights of this enchanting and beautiful region.