Domaine Las Brugues

The view is magnificent, and the teenagers had fun with the inflatable, trampoline, and ping-pong table. We were only at the gîte briefly, but it was just right and very well equipped. We also got a perfect welcome and clear explanations.

The pool was very warm, and it was easy to have a chat with the owners there. They were welcoming throughout, from the warm phone welcome to our arrival. They also gave an excellent introduction to the property and the amenities included with each rental. It was all straightforward, with everything there. Thanks to both of them. If there's availability on our next trip, we'll definitely stay again. Best of luck with the rentals.

The area is beautiful, though you'll need a car. We enjoyed the market in Mirepoix, Carcasonne, and a day at the beach was quite doable too. The owners are lovely and really go out of their way to make sure everyone has a great holiday, especially the children. There's so much for them: an afternoon bouncy castle, a big netted trampoline, a fenced pool, bikes, go-karts, a playground, and more. Fresh waffles are served on Fridays. We hit a huge heatwave, but borrowing an extra fan helped. There's also an apartment with air conditioning if you'd rather book that. The pool photos on the website, with the little parasols, are a bit out of date. There are now two very nice ones, so there's always somewhere to sit in the shade.

We stayed with our four- and six-year-old at gîte le Caussanel. It had everything we needed, including a big fridge and freezer, microwave, starter household supplies, made-up beds, and air conditioning, which was a real plus. The living space isn't huge, but we weren't there to sit indoors. Next time we'd choose a ground-floor gîte to feel even more connected to the lovely estate. Domaine Las Brugues is wonderfully placed for exploring. Shops and bakeries are close by, with loads to do nearby: walking or cycling along the Canal du Midi, visiting Carcossone, Narbonne, or Toulouse, browsing markets in Bram, Revel, or Mirepoix, and cooling off at Gruissan, Peyriac de mer, lakes, or a water park. The children still talk about the place and already want to return, which says it all. There's an enormous play barn with a trampoline, table tennis, badminton, basketball, and a huge bouncy castle. Outside, there are swings, a mini-farm with a horse, goats, and a rabbit, a heated fenced pool, and children's bikes and go-carts. The kids rode around, bounced, fed and watched the animals, and swam for hours, over and over until sunset. I'm sure I've missed some of the activities. The grown-ups had a great time too. The characterful house has a pool and wide views over cornfields, with sunflowers every other year. There are sunny and shady terraces, a lovely BBQ area, pétanque court, hammocks, and table d’hôte at various times. We could put our feet up, enjoy aperitifs, and chat with other guests. The owners are warm and friendly, and always available if you have questions. The children can also help make their own pizzas at the Pizza Soirée and prepare artisanal waffles with Leen and Patrick. It was a fantastic stay and I highly recommend it.