Maison Gaultier
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Overview
Maison Gaultier is a modern masterpiece surrounded by the authenticity and charm of southern France. Set on a hillside bordering the garrigue, the distant mountain and valley views from the heated swimming pool and hot tub are beautiful. What’s more, you can stroll to an enchanting medieval village whilst Carcassonne is only 14km away.
This contemporary 5-bedroom abode has been created by two artists who have poured their love into the home’s thoughtful design. There’s no better spot to appreciate this than the splendid living and dining spaces with a high-end kitchen, stylish dining table and a chic lounge opening out to the poolside terrace. A second kitchen and lounge with Smart TV leads to the hot tub terrace and outdoor lounge.
Upstairs are the five bedrooms, each one individually styled with great care featuring air-conditioning and Egyptian cotton bedlinen. Start off in the impressive master double with idyllic views and unique bathtub in its open en suite bathroom. There are three more doubles with large beds (the super king-size double can be split into a twin) alongside a fifth bedroom with a bunk-bed sleeping three. We also love the two new bath/shower rooms and the delightful covered balcony making the most of those glorious views.
There is so much space outside whether relaxing by the heated infinity swimming pool, dining al-fresco by the barbecue, playing table tennis or darts in the games area or cooling off in the plunge pool. Then there’s the hot tub terrace, a little children’s play area with swings and a slide and other pretty spots to listen to the cicadas with a glass of local wine on warm summer evenings.
It’s a lovely walk along the country lanes to the heart of the medieval village with its grocery shop and bar, pizza van on a Friday evening and excellent hotel-restaurant (do book ahead). Wander along the steep lanes in this timeless setting and appreciate the gorgeous Pyrenees views from the very top of the village.
It’s also amazing being a short drive from Carcassonne by the banks of the Canal du Midi and Aude River. Its famous citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage site and it’s a joy to explore its warren of medieval lanes or walk along the old ramparts. On the other side of the town is historic La Bastide Saint-Louis, home to vibrant restaurants, wine-bars and a market that takes place three times a week on Place Carnot.
Meanwhile, cycle or walk along Canal du Midi’s towpath, visit pretty Minervois villages and vineyards, admire ancient Cathar castles and discover summer swimming spots or canoeing opportunities along the Aude River. Characterful market towns such as Limoux, Castelnaudary and Mirepoix are all wonderful days out or venture to the Mediterranean coast, just over an hour away, for fine Languedoc beaches, windsurfing and oysters.
What you should know…
- The villa sleeps up to 11 guests across four double bedrooms and one triple bedroom with a bunk-bed (a double underneath and a single on top). Please see the ‘Property Layout’ for further details.
- It’s a fantastic house for families with ample space and a games area. Do keep an eye on younger children across the grounds which are on different levels with steps/spiral staircase.
- You will need to book ahead to dine at the village’s excellent hotel-restaurant.
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
Main Level
- Lounge with doors opening to poolside terrace
- Open-plan kitchen and dining room. Kitchen well-equipped including oven, microwave, induction hob and bean to cup coffee machine
- Second open-plan kitchen and lounge with door leading to hot tub terrace
Upstairs (via two staircases, one with open-tread stairs)
- Access to covered terrace with outdoor lounge
- Bedroom 1 with king-size double bed and open en suite bathroom with tin bath, shower, two sinks and WC
- Bedroom 2 with king-size double bed
- Bedroom 3 with king-size double bed
- Bathroom with shower, sink and WC
- Bedroom 4 with super king-size bed (can be split into twin)
- Bedroom 5 with bunk-bed (double below, single above)
- Bathroom with bath/shower, sink and WC
Outside Grounds
- Heated salt-water infinity swimming pool (10x4m, depth: 1.5m) with safety alarm. Open approximately May to October
- Poolside terrace with sun loungers
- Al-fresco dining area and barbecue
- Terrace with hot tub and outdoor lounge
- Games area
- Separate above-ground plunge pool (1.2m depth with ladder to access)
- Children’s play area
- Garden/grounds (one acre, different levels including steps and spiral staircase)
- EV charger (extra charge)
- Parking
Facilities
- Tennis equipment
- Dressing gowns
Location
About the surrounding area of Maison GaultierOnly 14km from the world-famous city of Carcassonne, Maison Gaultier is on a hillside with panoramic views, set on the edge of a pretty old village in the Aude department of southern France.
The nearest airport is Carcassonne (15km) or you could fly into Perpignan, Béziers or Toulouse airports, all within a 90-minute drive. Gare de Carcassonne has train arrivals from Toulouse, Narbonne, Bordeaux, Perpignan and Marseille. A car is essential - there is ample parking in front of the villa.
There are two new tennis courts that can also be used for basketball a short walk away (open 8.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m.) as well as picturesque walks from the doorstep. It's a lovely walk along the country lanes to the heart of the old medieval village where you will find the village shop for groceries (including good local produce and wines), a bar, an excellent hotel-restaurant (do book ahead) as well as a pizza van on a Friday night. Explore the village’s steep medieval lanes and admire wonderful vistas towards the mountains. On the hill above the village there is an atmopsheric tapas-bar which often has live music at the weekends and a Saturday morning market in the height of the summer.
There are other restaurants in local villages within a short drive and large supermarkets on the edge of Carcassonne for stocking up. Indeed, it is fantastic being just a 15km drive from Carcassonne – start off in its old town, Bastide de Saint Louis, to soak up its atmospheric café terraces, wine-bars, restaurants and market which takes place on Place Carnot three mornings a week. This part of Carcassonne dates back to the 13th century – just to the north is the train station (great for day trips) and the Canal du Midi.
Then there’s the medieval citadel, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of France’s most visited destinations – arrive early to explore the fascinating old lanes, visit the castle and walk along the historic ramparts. Look out for festivities and historic re-enactments, especially in the French school holidays. The annual firework display on 14th July is spectacular.
History lovers may also been keen to discover some of the country’s famous Cathar castles, starting with nearby Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours (17km) then venturing further south to Château de Montségur (82km), perhaps stopping off in the gorgeous market town of Mirepoix (53km) en route.
Hire bikes to cycle along the Canal du Midi or enjoy a leisurely boat tour. Highlights along the canal include the attractive port town of Trèbes (18km) with its 17th century bridge and unique canal lock, the pretty village of Homps (41km) with its canalside restaurants and Castelnaudary (38km), home of the legendary dish, le cassoulet. There are plenty of unspoilt Minervois villages even closer as well as idyllic spots for summer swimming and picnics by the Aude River.
The beautiful cities of Narbonne and Toulouse are other great days out by car or train (from Carcassonne) whilst the Mediterranean coast also awaits with the vast Languedoc beaches of Gruissan Plage (88km) just over an hour away or you may prefer the charming coastal town of Leucate (101km), famed for its windsurfing and oysters.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Carcassonne Airport
(15km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Carcassonne
(14km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Small medieval village
(Within 2km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Village hotel-restaurant
(Within 2km) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
Grocery store in the village
(Within 2km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis |
Two multi-purpose tennis/basketball courts near the house
(Short walk ) |
||
| Nearest City |
Carcassonne
(14km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf de Carcassonne
(20km) |
||
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 AgesChildren are welcome – families are sure to appreciate the great sense of space and the outdoor games area with table tennis, table football and darts. There is also a multi-purpose tennis/basketball court within walking distance which is free to use from 8.00 a.m. to 8.00 p.m. (tennis equipment can be provided). There is a play area with swings and a slide in the villa's grounds or let younger guests let off steam at the little playground near the shop and brook on the other side of the village around 2km away. If staying with youngsters, a cot and highchair can be requested.
Carcassonne’s historic citadel will enchant all ages with its warren of medieval lanes with shops, cafes and museums. Visit the castle, walk along the rampart walls and check to see if there are any family-friendly activities taking place such as historic re-enactments.
A seasonal tourist road train connects the citadel to the other part of Carcassonne, Bastide de Saint Louis, crossing the Aude River where there are some play areas and attractive walks. The Canal du Midi is a beautiful spot for boat trips and cycle rides/walks along the canal’s tow path.
Just outside Carcassonne, come across a go-karting circuit (15km) and the Lac de la Cavayère (20km) with summer activities such as tree-top climbing, watersports and an inflatable waterpark. You can even visit the kangaroos and wallabies at Le Parc Australien (18km) whilst further afield is the much-loved Réserve Africaine de Sigean (82km).
Elsewhere, discover horse-riding through the beautiful landscapes, summer swimming and canoeing/kayaking along the Aude River and the fascinating caves offering adventurous activities at Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine (26km). Meanwhile, the Mediterranean is just over an hour away for sandy shores and watersports.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- <1hr to Airport
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Go-Karting
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Swings
- Slide
- Playground
- Tennis rackets
- Darts
- Board games
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- Indoor Games
- Outdoor Games
- Table Tennis
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
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Extra cleaning
- Chef
- Pre-stocked fridge
- Sommelier service
- Masseur
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 bank transfer to the owner one month before/upon arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 11.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | £750 paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before/upon arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 11.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. However, EV charging is extra, payable locally. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, changed once for stays of more than 7 nights. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes and mid-stay cleaning for stays of more than 7 nights also included. 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 opening dates? | The pool is open approximately May to September. It can also be opened on request (with advance notice) for Christmas/NY for an additional charge of €200 per week, payable to the owner in advance. 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 heating charge? | Included (except Xmas/NY when there is a charge of €200 per week for pool opening/heating, as above, payable in advance to the owner). Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax payable locally in cash (typically costs €1-€10 per adult per night - please enquire if exact amount is required). |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Changeover day | Saturday. All other changeover days on request. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Pets welcome? | Small pets may be allowed on request only and with prior agreement with the owner. |
| Other Ts and Cs | A cot and a highchair can be requested. |
| Other Ts and Cs | The villa sleeps up to 11 guests across four double bedrooms and one triple bedroom with a bunk-bed (a double underneath and a single on top). Please see the ‘Property Layout’ for further details. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 11 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| May 3rd 2024 - Jul 6th 2024 | £3,021 |
| Jul 6th 2024 - Jul 20th 2024 | £3,193 |
| Jul 20th 2024 - Aug 1st 2024 | £4,139 |
| Aug 1st 2024 - Dec 19th 2024 | £3,021 |
| Dec 19th 2024 - Jan 4th 2025 | £3,193 |
| Jan 4th 2025 - Jul 5th 2025 | £3,021 |
| Jul 5th 2025 - Jul 19th 2025 | £3,193 |
| Jul 19th 2025 - Aug 2nd 2025 | £4,139 |
| Aug 2nd 2025 - Nov 4th 2025 | £3,021 |
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?
The house was designed and constructed by us and finished in 2018.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love w...
Read moreOwner Profile
When did you become the owner?
The house was designed and constructed by us and finished in 2018.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The location. It's set on an exclusive hilltop residence, next to the Medieval village renowned for its beauty. It's surrounded by unspoilt garrigue landscape which seamlessly fuses into the garden. It's a haven for wildlife and flora and fauna, and also the views over the mountain ranges; the Black Mountains, Alaric and the Pyrenees. It also has a wonderful elevated aspect over the valley, which makes one feel bird like. The upstairs terrace is an excellent spot to enjoy a good summer thunderstorm.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
The land the house is situated on used to be the central area for goat herders. At the back of the house there is a goat herding trail, where people can explore on foot their old huts called 'Les Capitelles' which are located over the opposite side of the valley from the house. All of the walls in the village are constructed from local stone, which makes it very pretty.
Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
Nope - but would be good to have someone stay.
For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really...
Must do?
Explore the local area on foot, or with bikes. Hire a 2CV which can be delivered free of charge to the house and follow their road guide. Book into the local restaurant La Bergerie and visit the Tapas bar on the hill. Book in our caterers and enjoy a picnic in the wonderful surrounding countryside. Book in for an in-house massage from Pedro (www.heartworktherapies.com).
If guests are staying on the 14th of July then a trip to see the stunning Carcassonne fireworks is a must, people travel from all over Europe to see this amazing display. Visit the Mountain lake or the Lac de la Cavayere. Take a trip to Gruissan to the old fishing ports (local catch available Mon-Saturday 8-12pm) then onto the old chalets in Gruissan, and a meal at one of the restaurants. Visit Carcassonne market and Les Halles to enjoy some sea food and some sparkling wine. Other interesting places to visit are: Caunes Minervois, Minerve, Lagrasse (take a dip in the natural spring swimming pool and visit the active Abbey, and discover the medieval town of Mirepoix).
Must eat?
Local French cuisine, sea food and the local dish is Cassoulet.
Must see?
Visit the UNESCO sites La Cite, Lastours and the Canal du Midi. If possible, book into one of the World Class performances in the outside concert hall in the castle. Artists this year include Sting, here is a link to the concerts called The Festivale du Carcassonne www.festivaldecarcassonne.fr (need to book early).
What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
Book restaurants in advance. Make sure they allocate enough time at the villa to enjoy the benefits of being in a retreat like location. Make a bean to cup coffee at the house - the cappuccinos are amazing! Enjoy a menu du midi in the Square Gambetta, these are really good value and range from €12 for three courses, including bread and wine. Try the in-house catering with wine pairing, order a wine filling service from our sommelier, amazing local wines. If a customer likes wine tasting then we can recommend www.vinenvacances.com - pick up and drop off at the house can be arranged. The area is a dog-walker's, bird watcher's, and nature lover's paradise.
Reviews
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One of the best properties we have ever stayed in
We stayed at Maison Gaultier for 2 weeks at the end of June and had a fantastic holiday. There were 5 adults and 2 kids in our party and the house had plenty of room for everyone’s differing needs. The photos of the listing are absolutely spot on in terms of accuracy! The outside space really is big. It had plenty of chairs/loungers/covered day beds. Fantastic outside table for al fresco eating. The pool was beautiful. We had a couple of minor issues with the pool during our stay due to a couple of severe storms in the area but the owners were very prompt at dealing with these. The gas BBQ was spotlessly clean when we arrived, which you often find to not be the case. Internally there is air conditioning in each room. The whole house has electric shutters which are great for blackout blinds to get some good sleep and also keep the house cooler. Beds very comfortable, nice linen wear on all beds. Towels were all brand new. Generous and lovely welcome basket was there for us on arrival. The owners met us on arrival at the property and gave us a very quick run down and left us to it. They were a pleasure to deal with throughout our stay when we did have any queries or minor issues. Kitchen was very well equipped for large parties, loads of plates, utensils, cookware etc. Good supply of kitchen basics. Lovely toiletries in bathrooms. Very quiet peaceful location. In summary one of the best properties we have ever stayed in over many years of holidaying abroad.
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Perfect for our party of 8!
The house was the perfect setting for our party of 8. The bedrooms were all a good size and with 3 bathrooms and great air conditioning they were perfect. The indoor kitchen and dining area are huge and are the best equipped we have ever had. The outside areas are just outstanding. We used the bbq a couple of times and ate outside every evening. The table tennis was fab and we developed a great love for darts! The pool is to die for. In terms of the area, Collins bar is a 2 minutes drive away and is open from 5pm for drinks on a hilltop. We had a meal and wine tasting at Logeril (Pennautier) which we loved. There are plenty of pizzerias a short drive away.
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Cannot recommend highly enough!
What a wonderful holiday at this amazing Villa. Firstly, a big thank you to the owners who were amazing and answered all our queries and were very fair minded when checking out. This really is a luxury home and everything was as stated. The pool is excellent as well as the hot tub. There are lots of eating areas and plenty of room to sunbathe on the decking. I can recommend taking advantage of the visiting chef - he was excellent. The property has an aircon which works extremely well. The kitchen is amazing with every mod con you could want and well appointed with kitchen equipment. The welcome book was very useful and covered everything. There are plenty of fridges and freezers and one outside which was very useful. We were 7 adults and three young children and we fitted in very well and never felt cramped. Some of the walks nearby are very good. I cannot recommend this villa highly enough and we will definitely be returning.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
