Chez Fins Bois

Our gîte was warm, cozy, and very clean. The hosts were welcoming and happy to help. We only had one night there and wished we could have stayed longer. We'd definitely recommend it, and would love to return.

My parents had driven seven hours to reach the property after attending my wedding in Perpignan. They aren't very confident using their phones, and it was their first time driving in France on the opposite side of the road, so they needed to concentrate. They arrived at about 19h without giving an exact arrival time. They said the welcome felt cold, and although they were told when checkout was, they didn't know the breakfast time. The place had looked perfect on booking.com, with superb reviews, which made the experience all the more disappointing. I called the hosts to explain the situation and ask whether breakfast was available for my parents. The call turned into a confrontation. I was shouted at, and heard madame yell “SHUT UP” at me twice in the background. They hung up, so I called back and politely said we'd been cut off. Monsieur said there would be no breakfast because they hadn't been able to confirm anything during the day, so he hadn't bought croissants or fruit. I tried to explain that they'd been driving all day and couldn't use their phones well. He replied, “Awh come on they aren’t any older then I am love!” It felt patronising, and I don't understand why he thought he could judge my parents' abilities. My husband was mortified when he heard how I was spoken to, especially Madame shouting at me to shut up. My parents felt unwelcome because the hosts had to wait all day to greet them and put on the heating. I've never seen a conversation with a client become so hostile. There was no empathy or respect, and this was the worst customer service I've seen in my hospitality career. If the hosts don't want to wait for paying guests who arrive later than usual or can't manage their phones, they should hire someone competent, friendly, and understanding. There are worse things in the world, but this was a horrific experience from the “lovely welcoming and very helpful couple” from England running a B&B in Nère. Bon continuation John et Tania.

We spent most of the day lounging by the heated pool, reading and listening to the wildlife, and even with a couple of outings for dinner and drinks, it felt like a proper escape. The chalet was lovely, especially the private terrace where we had a barbecue and played darts into the evening. Inside were two upstairs bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and a cozy lounge with a TV and log fireplace. Everything was pristinely clean and tastefully decorated with a local feel. John and Tania were incredibly friendly and shared great local tips, including a nearby cognac distillery, restaurants, and the local market. The venue is nestled in the French countryside and really complements its surroundings. Their hard work and dedication show. We can't wait to visit again, we already miss it, and can't believe you haven't booked already. Fantastic place, couldn't recommend it, John, and Tania more.

I've stayed here several times, including while different properties were being renovated. It's a lovely rural setting with good facilities, plenty of parking, and lovely gardens.