Guests say
Le Jardin Secret in Laurac is consistently praised for its stunning views, tranquil village setting, and beautifully furnished interiors. Guests appreciate the practicality for families, the well-equipped and comfortable accommodations, and the delightful secret garden with a pool. The property offers a peaceful retreat with easy access to local amenities and attractions.
Guests that stayed at this property said
Guests have described the house and pool as immaculately presented, indicating a high standard of cleanliness throughout the property.
The property is lauded for its peaceful and beautiful village setting with stunning views, convenient access to local shops, and proximity to attractions like Carcassonne and Toulouse.
The reviews highlight the property's comfortable furnishings, including en-suite bedrooms and a spacious living area. The presence of fans and the coolness of the middle floor bedrooms contribute to the comfort during warm weather.
Facilities such as the pool, balcony, and well-equipped kitchen are highly appreciated. Some minor suggestions for improvement include adding fans to all bedrooms and blackout blinds to keep the lounge cool.
While guests have expressed deep satisfaction with the amenities and the provision of local area information, there is no mention of gifts or special thoughtful touches that would warrant a score in this category.
About this property
Le Jardin Secret has been blessed with a very special location near Carcassonne, in a small protected and historic Cathar hilltop village and surrounded by rolling hills of woods, fields and wilderness which provide perfect walking paths with views of the Pyrenees, the Black Mountains and the Corbières.
This historic village of only 150 inhabitants, was an important castle and was for a long time the capital of Lauragais and you can still see some of the remains of the old fortifications. The front door of this 18th-century house opens onto the village’s Grande Rue, with all of about 12 houses. Indoors lies a beautifully restored and comfortable family home with stunning open views over the countryside. There are thick, stone walls keeping it fresh in the summer and there is a Jotul wood-burning stove in the living room, which has a fabulous, large South-facing terrace; pigeons bill and coo on the terrace and the birdsong is marvellous.
There is a separate charming and private garden enclosing the fabulous pool, sun terrace and shaded dining terrace and with its spectacular view, this area is truly idyllic.
Just 15 minutes away is the town of Castelnaudary, which has plenty of facilities, good restaurants and is also a major centre for the Canal du Midi. Whilst, most guests like to relax by the pool and on the terrace, there are plenty of walking trails nearby and there is plenty to do and see within easy driving distance, including good skiing only one and a half hours away.
Le Jardin Secret is one of those rare finds where history, beauty, nature and the personal touch of the owners, have created a haven of peace, tranquility and beautiful views in the sun-drenched Languedoc.
Le Jardin Secret is located in the hilltop village of Laurac in the Languedoc, close to the famous town of Carcassonne. With a population of about 150 in habitants, this charming village is a totally unspoilt and peaceful destination full of history and beauty. Castelnaudary is the nearest town (20mins away) with three large supermarkets, many bars and restaurants and many other shops, including a weekly market held on Mondays. There is plenty of free car parking within 250 yards of the house.
Within the surrounding area, there is much to see and explore on foot, by bicycle, in a canoe or kayak, or in the car. There are equestrian centres for horse riding in the local area. Similarly, bicycles can be hired in the nearby town of Bram. The cycle route along the Canal du Midi is ideal for all abilities and ages, making a perfect day out for the whole family with a picnic stop along the way! The Languedoc is abundant with hiking trails too, and exploring the region on foot is a lovely, leisurely method to discover the beauty of this region of France.
Vineyards sprawl across the land, and the famous region of Minervois is just beyond Carcassonne. Many local winemakers welcome groups for tours and tastings, and it is said that the best white wines from the South of France are produced here.
It goes without saying that the fortified city of Carcassonne is a must see, there are guided tours and medieval shows throughout the summer to entertain all visitors. There are also many of spectacular castles, abbeys and caves to visit in the area, especially the Grotte de Niaux with its pre-historic drawings.
Toulouse, known as ‘La Ville Rose’ (the pink city) is a vibrant city full of history and culture with many cafes, restaurants, museums and shops. Mirepoix is only 20 mins away and has a beautiful market square and the town of Albi boasts formidable architectural features.
Accommodation
Villa Interior
The villa is located over 3 floors with a separate private garden.
Ground Floor
- Utility room with washing machine, tumble dryer, walk-in hot drying room. iron and ironing board
- Back door leading down the road to the garden and pool
First Floor
- Large entrance hall with a selection of books
- Double bedroom (14m2) with hand basin and private bathroom across the landing
- Bathroom with bath/shower, wash basin and WC
- Double bedroom (16m2) with en-suite bathroom with bath, shower, wash basin and WC
- Twin or double bedroom (10m2) with en-suite bathroom with shower, wash basin and WC
- Twin or double bedroom (14m2) with en-suite bathroom with shower, wash basin and WC
Second Floor
Open-plan living space of 56m2 comprising of:
- Sitting area with comfortable sofas, armchairs, Jotul wood burning stove, plasma screen TV with UK channels, DVD player and a large selection of books.
- Dining area with large table for 10 guests with glass sliding doors opening up onto the terrace.
- Fully equipped kitchen with fridge, electric oven, microwave, electric hob, dishwasher, double sink and separate vegetable sink
- Large landing (14m2) with freestanding freezer and wine fridge
- Guests WC with wash basin
- Terrace with wooden table and chairs, reclining sun loungers and gas barbecue with views over the pool.
Outside Grounds
- Separate fully fenced private garden (30m from the house down an almost unused road)
- Private swimming pool (8x4.5m) open from 1st May to 7th October (cooler months may not be suitable for swimming)
- Wooden terrace
- Sun loungers and parasols
- Al-fresco dining table
- Fridge in the small garden cabin
- Off-site parking (approx. 200m away)
Facilities
- Walk-in drying room
- Hairdryer in each bedroom
- Wood burning stove and logs
- DVD player and DVDs
- Eco-friendly electric radiators
- Fans
- Books
- 5 bicycles
Reviews (17)
-
Laura
Le Jardin Secret did not disappoint, the village is beautiful and quiet and the garden is magical, I won’t say anymore than that! My family had a wonderful time thoroughly recommend a visit!
-
Gaia
Lovely peaceful place. Beautiful surroundings. Superbly comfortable beds. Excellent veranda area for cooking BBQs. Friendly and responsive owner. Just what we wanted for a relaxing getaway during the pandemic. The French were far more responsible with regard to mask wearing, and vaccine passport checking than anything going on in the UK. The supermarkets were fully stocked and everything was easy and smooth. Loads of space in this house and stayed cool even in 38 degree heatwave. The pool was clean and refreshing during the heat. Would definitely return here, it was blissfully relaxing.
-
Victoria
Holiday was in a pretty village in great location. The house was fully furnished with everything you could need and the view from pool and balcony was stunning. We had a fantastic stay. Only small points.. one of the bedrooms did not have a fan which would we useful for future bookings and also the upstairs lounge was very warm despite a fan in use. It would helped if black out blinds could be put down over sliding doors during the day whilst you are out to keep that room cool.