https://www.oliverstravels.com/france/languedoc/maison-gaultier/
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.