Situated just outside of Montlaur village in the Languedoc region, this vacation home rental in France is one of three homes on a storied family estate. Initially owned by one of the Belle Epoque's most famous architects, Edouard Niermans, the property was first developed as a vast vineyard known at the time as Domaine de Montlaur. The estate remains in the family to this day and has been restored to maintain and preserve its history.

In the shade of an old almond tree, the cottage served as the former home of the stable hands and overlooks lovely gardens and the pool. The old stone and timber construction gives way to bright sunlit interiors with room for up to eight guests.

Recently renovated and decorated, the vintage furniture, flooring and fixtures have been carefully selected. The ground floor includes a large living room with a fireplace and a fully equipped kitchen and dining area with views of the gardens in addition to one bath. Upstairs are four double bedrooms and one bath.

The gardens are considered among the most beautiful in Aude with a spectacular design and variety of species. There are ample outside living spaces as well as shady dining areas where you can sip the estate wines, BBQ or play in the pool.

MONTLAUR

Located in the Languedoc Roussilon region of southern France, the charming village of Montlaur is surrounded by vineyards, rivers and forests in the lower foothills of the Pyrenees in the heart of Cathar country. 

A typical provincial village, it's a welcoming slice of local life with good cafes and markets (don't miss the organic market every Tuesday) and is within a short stroll from the cottage. 

Situated within a beautiful valley, the area is ideal for mountain hikes (the nearby GR36 is within two miles) horse riding, wine tasting, and exploring the Cathar castles and the abbey of Fontfroide. The UNESCO sites of La Cite and Carcassonne with it's imposing citadel, narrow cobbled stone streets, and medieval beauty are just thirty minutes away where you can take in the amazing views from the ramparts. You are just over an hour south of Toulouse and an hour north of the Mediterranean. 

LOCATION

Montlaur, France. Nearest Airports: Carcassonne (27km), Toulouse (100km)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring through Fall for the best weather

You can also rent the pavilion or the suite at BoutiqueHomes.