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Ramparts and Riverview
Lagrasse, Languedoc, France
Ramparts and Riverview
Lagrasse, Languedoc, France
Built into the Walls of Lagrasse
This charming apartment is part of the original rampart walls for the listed village of Lagrasse and overlooks the Orbieu River, its pebbled shores and striking arched stone bridge. We love its understated elegance, with beautiful original features and classic style.
This property has a wonderful location - inside the ramparts of the lovely walled town of Lagrasse. As you might expect, it has plenty of character, not least because of the elegant stone terrace built from the remains of a tower discovered during renovation. It's a great place to relax and look out over the river and the beautiful stone bridge.
Access to the apartments is through the shady riad-like courtyard. Inside, the apartment has everything a couple or small family might need. We love the large breezy windows, handmade terracotta floors, antique furnishings and original art, some of which was made by a local artist. It has one generously-sized bedroom, a spacious living area, a modern kitchen and a bathroom.
Swim in the river, go for a leisurely walk or a bike ride in the hills, eat produce from the local market, or simply relax on the terrace and watch the sun go down.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Amenities include a flat-screen TV with English-language broadcasting, a DVD with an extensive library of films and a CD player.
AROUND
Lagrasse is located in the beautiful Corbiere Hills on the banks of the Orbieu River, which is directly behind the property. It is usually shallow and provides a safe place for paddling and fishing. A little further upstream, the river has a natural pebbly beach. During the summer months it is a lovely swimming spot, and a lifeguard is present.
The village is famous for Abbey Sainte Marie d’Orbieu, founded in 799 by Charlemagne, its picturesque weekly covered market (selling delicious organic and local produce including cheese, olive oil, fruit, vegetables and bread), the 12th-century humpback stone bridge, and its labyrinth of medieval streets. There are six restaurants, two bars, an epicerie, a boulangerie, a pharmacy, a post office and numerous pottery shops and galleries, all only a short walk from the front door.
The owners recommend hiring a car to explore nearby attractions, including the medieval city of Carcassonne, the Cathar castles of Queribus and Peyrepertruse, Fontfroid Abbey, and the cities of Montpellier and Toulouse. Mediterranean beaches are only 40 minutes away, so guests can spend the day windsurfing, sailing or sampling fresh oysters and sparkling wine from Limoux.
LOCATION
Lagrasse, France. Nearest airport: Carcassonne (42km). The larger airports of Toulouse, Montpelier and Girona are about 90 minutes drive.
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round
