About this property
Set on the edge of the storied hilltop village of Cucugnan, Maison L’Auzina is a traditional French home that offers timeless simplicity in one of southern France’s most characterful landscapes.
Encircled by the rolling Corbières hills and vineyards, this old-fashioned retreat evokes a slower pace of life, where days begin with fresh pastries and bread from the village bakery and end with panoramic views from the terrace, perhaps accompanied by good local wine.
This stone house remains faithful to its rustic roots. With accommodation on one level (reached via steps from the road), wooden beams frame the living room ceiling, a nod to the region’s pastoral heritage, while the crackle of the fireplace in cooler months hints at its cosy, countryside charm. A well-equipped country kitchen and dining area lies alongside three comfortable bedrooms and a modern family bathroom.
Outside, over a hectare of private land stretches into the surrounding hills, where fruit trees and Mediterranean flora give way to uninterrupted valley views. The terrace, with both shaded and sunlit spots for al-fresco dining, invites long lunches and leisurely evenings. At the centre, a private swimming pool is edged by a sun terrace, ideal for lazy afternoons with a book or a glass of local Fitou. A table tennis table and darts board in the barn add a dash of classic holiday fun.
It’s around a 10-minute stroll to the heart of the village. Overlooked by the medieval ramparts of Château de Quéribus, Cucugnan’s intimate charm belies its growing reputation as a hub for wine lovers and history seekers. Two restaurants, a café bar, a general store and boulangerie are waiting for you. Beyond the village, Cathar castles and hiking trails await while nearby vineyards tempt with tasting tours along the famed Corbières and Fitou wine route.
For those yearning for an authentic escape in the heart of southern France, Maison L’Auzina offers a truly unhurried and memorable stay.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Corbières hills, Cucugnan is a captivating hilltop village in the Aude department, close to the Pyrénées-Orientales border. Fly into Perpignan Airport (36km) or Carcassonne (83km).
This pretty village sits along the scenic Cathar Châteaux Route and the renowned Corbières and Fitou wine trail, offering a spellbinding blend of natural beauty, history and gastronomy. The house is located on the road leading to the village – just a 10-minute stroll (no pavement) brings you to the heart of the village where you’ll find a general store, a bakery-café, two restaurants and a bar.
For history enthusiasts, the region’s Cathar legacy is unmissable. Château de Quéribus (4km) looms above the village, while the nearby ruins of Château d’Aguilar (16km), Peyrepertuse (9km), Termes (32km) and Villerouge-Termenès (27km) tell stories of medieval conflict and intrigue.
Cucugnan is also a gateway to charming local villages and towns, each offering its own flavour of rural French life. The nearby villages are home to wonderful restaurants, while Maury (9km) and Touchan (12.5km) offer a range of amenities, from supermarkets to wine cellars. In fact, the Corbières region is a delight for wine lovers - vineyard tours and tastings abound, giving you a true taste of the south.
Further afield, explore Rivesaltes (35km) with its excellent rail connections, or soak in the Catalan charm of Perpignan (44km), known for its food, shopping and vibrant culture. For a longer day trip, cross the Spanish border and discover the artistic seaside town of Cadaqués (130km), just two hours away.
Adventurers will relish the region’s outdoor offerings from white-water rafting and paragliding to mountain biking and quad tours. And for scenic hikers, a network of randonnée routes offers breathtaking views and varied challenges. Whether you're here for history, wine or nature, Cucugnan delivers an unforgettable escape.
Accommodation
House Interiors (entrance level via steps)
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Entrance hall
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Living room with fireplace, TV, DVD player and Wi-Fi
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Kitchen, well-equipped including microwave, fridge/freezer, oven, hob, dishwasher and breakfast table
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Bedroom 1 with double bed
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Bedroom 2 with two single beds
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Bedroom 3 with bunk-bed
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WC and sink
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Shower room with WC, shower and sink
A fourth bedroom is available on request
Outside Grounds
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Swimming pool (9x4m)
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Poolside loungers and shaded/open dining areas
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Rear shaded dining terrace
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Large barn / garage with washing machine, table tennis and darts
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Private grounds (1.3 hectares) with panoramic views, fruit trees and Mediterranean plants
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Private parking