Carcassonne Penthouse
in the Languedoc, South of France
Testimonials
(from the visitors' book, in reverse chronological order)
Sophie; We have enjoyed our stay at Christmas in Carcassonne in your beautiful penthouse apartment. It is so bright and cheery on grey winter days. The bed and linens are divine! We have walked and enjoyed this ideal location.
Alex & Mina, from Canada, December 2009
Great weather, and all the countryside was superb in the autumn sunshine. The trip down to Peyreperteuse and Queribus casteles was excellent, even if we did get lost on the way back to Lagrasse, which looked terrific at dusk. Narbonne also a good trip.
Carcassonne and the flat were also excellent .
Mick, Breda, Sam & Siniad, England, October 2009
Excellent weather. Apartment worked well for five of us. The Moulin de Trèbes , just past Trèbes Boat Centre (maybe a quarter of a mile on) was the gastronomic hihghlight(it's on the Canal du Midi, follow the towpath to the next lock).
Chrispin et al, UK, October 2009
Carcassonne is very beautiful. Recommend a visit to the Cité - we saw an amazing choral group in the cathedral. Place Carnot perfect for a drink or meal + watching the world go by.
Jim, Val & Don, England, September 2009
Great apartment - plenty of room for 2 adults and 4 large boys (18, 16, 14, 12 years old).Loved being at the centre of things... I enjoyed nipping out early to get fresh bread, croissants etc for breakfast. The boysenjoyed the sightseeing in Cité and Bastide. We highly recommend the jousting show.
We were without a car, but with [railway] station and buses handy, it's not a problem - we caught the number 1 bus to Lac de Cavayère where we all enjoyed the sandy beach, the gravel beach, a walk around the lake (1-1
½ hours), pedalos and the most impossible mini-golf we have ever played! We also went to the [Medterranean] beach - train to La Franqui changing at Narbonne - beware the first part of the journey needed a reservation but as we bought the tickets from a machine we were unaware of this. The conductor kindly allowed the dumb foreigners to proceed although 2 of us had to stand. But t was a good journey and the train going across the etang spectacular. Huge expanses of beach at La Franqui - but not many facilities.
Also canal trip highly recommended - we had a lovely wooden boat and the guide's commentary was very interesting. We took the tour that went west through 2 locks.
We would like to come again - and so would the boys!!
Arminel, Anthony, Oliver, Hugh, Edward & William, England
August-September 2009
A lovely apartment served as a great base for a great holiday. La Cité and the Lac de Caveyer are well recommended. There is also a fantastic Spanish festival at theend of August which must be visited if you are lucky enough to be here at that time. There are performers, food stalls and plenty of sangria!
Thank you for a wonderful holiday.
Jack, Simon, Ross & Nai, August 2009
Would totally agree [with the previous entry]. The Medieval Cité isalso worth a look. Apartment was just what we needed for a relaxing & fun holiday - would well recommend.
Thanks to all who helped make it a great experience.
Dan, Maria, Michael & Harry, Ireland, August 2009
Thisis my first attempt at booking a holiday - actually, booking anything - over the internet and I have to say it has been a wonderful experience. The description of the apartment is spot on, and to arriveand have Sophie to deal with our queries was very re-assuring. Carcassonne is a fabulous place for a family holiday, especially as we didn't want to hire a car. Public transport is easy and everyone we came in contact with has been more than pleasant and helpful, particularly with out bad school-French The lake isdefinitely worth a visit - we didn't realise there was a café at it until our second trip there!
Steve, Emily, Ciara & Gillian, Ireland, August 2009
... We had an absolutely fantastic holiday! Blessed with great weather. We were delighted with the apartment as it isso central to everywhere and it had everything we needed for cooking and relaxing. It meant so much to us that it was spotless.
We really enjoyed the atmosphere at the market days in the nearby square on Tuesdays, Thursdays and biggest market day and best one is Saturday mornings. All the lovely fresh fruit and vegetables were excellent value and went down a treat!
A great day out is to get the number 1 public bus at the Dome bus stop which takes you to "L'Auree de Lac" which is a man-made beach which is ideal for swimming and they have boats for hire. They also have an excellent adventure park there. Take thw number 1 bus to the bus terminus to bring you to beach and adventure park. Bus fare €1.20 single journey. Bus timetables in tourist office nearby.
We strongly recommend a vist to the castle and the old city of Carcassonne which is within the castle walls. Knights on horses show well worth seeing. We enjoyed a 2¾ hour cruise on the canal which included 1 hour picnic. sincere appreciation Sophie for a great holiday!
Mike, Trish & Paul, Ireland, July- August 2009
Many thanks for a lovely stay in your wonderful apartment. It is a pleasure to stay in such a bright well equipped "home from home". we had 5 great nights here and really enjoyed the daily excursions - Airbus factory in Toulouse and water canyoning outside Quillan. From start to finish, our booking reservations etc was friendly and efficient and we thank you so much for that.
The Ward Family, Ireland, July 2009
We have had a fabulous week here in the apartment, which is such a perfect base from which to explore the town and surrounding area. Having spent the previous week on a long-boat on the canal, the light and spaciousness of the flat - not to mention the comfortable bed - has been really welcome.
The weather has been excellent. almost entirely sunny, but not so hot that we needed to close the door & windows to use the air conditioning.
... On Tuesday & Wednesday we cycled out into the countryside, having hired bikes from "Evasion 2 Roues" at 85 Alée d'Iena. The bike hire was quite expensive at 60 Euros for 2 bikes for 2 days as we didn't qualify for weekend or all-week discounts.
... On Tuesday we cycled North and east to Conques-sur-Orbiel, Bagnoles, Malvies-en-Minervois, Bonilhonnae and Trèbes, returning along the tow-track along the Canal [du Midi] ...
On Wednesday we cycled South into some really pretty (and hilly!) countryside. an altogether more ambitious ride past La Cité, Cazilac, Cavanac, Couffoulens, Corrèze, St-Hlaire and along the official scenic route to Limoux ... Shortly before Limoux we passed the vineyard which claims to have been producing "Champagne" - called "Blanquette de Limoux" - for around 500 years predating Champagne. On arrival in the lovely square in Limoux we were able to try it ...
... This morning we bought a selection of wonderful fish for lunch at the poissoniere two blocks along from the apartment and discovered the indoor market opposite in Les Halles ... well worth a visit for your meat and fish having bought your fruit & veg from the market in Place Carnot.
Oh - almost forgot that we were lucky enough to arrive in Carcassonne just in time for the music fete on midsummer's day, where we ate, drank and danced until midnight to live music in Place Carnot.
Thanks to Sophie for providing the base for such a memorable week! We may well come and do it again!
Jez & Ali
from England, June 2009
Loved Quillan and the castles, Mirepoix, Limoux, and Lagrasse. The castle and markets [in Carcassonne] are fantastic.
Phil & Lee + Mick & Lisa
from Australia, June 2009
We have had a wonderful time in Carcassonne and surrounds with all its fascinating history. The flat is ideally located for these explorations. Hope to return some time.
Janet, Mark, Jan, Brian, Judy & Brian
May 2009
The apartment is centrally located so we were able to take many wonderful day trips. Take a trip to Limoux and go thru the local mountain road to Lagrasse. Don't miss the Saturday market if you're here over the weekend! The Sunday market at Narbonne is definitely worth a trip on your way to Sète for lunch at the Porte. If you're here to celebrate a special occasion, or if you just want a special dining experience you must try Domaine d'Auriac. Great food and service. Try their special drink of Prosecco with three orange liqueurs. Up at la Cité we'd highly recommend going for drinks at the very cozy Library Bar in the Barbicane Restaurant which is in the Hotel de la Cité.
Diane & Toby + Diana & Tony
from New York, May 2009
We had a delightful few days in this ideally situated apartment. It was so good to be able to come back to drinks on the terrace after a hard day's sightseeing. Recommended l'Ecurie restaurant. If you're heading to Millau, try to make time to do the cave tour at Roquefort too.
Chris, Campbell + Mum
from London, May 2009
Had a marvellous stay in Carcassonne - in the apartment - and the most exquisite meal in La Roulotte - that restaurant is a must - & it's not far - [6] rue Denisse
Sue, Mary, Bobbi, Angela
April 2009
We had a great stay, the apartment was very comfortable, our hosts were extraordinary in helping us have a great holiday, Many thanks
Kristine, Gavin & Louise
April, 2009
Really enjoyed our stay. Apartment perfectly situated for exploring the area, did not find the grail this time in Rennes le Château, maybe next time!
Le cinq freres Gallagher Michael, Mark, Stephen, John and Matthew
from Scotland, January 2009
We had a great time here in Carcassonne. Accommodation wonderful, weather usually clear and bright although cold! Snow on Boxing Day a treat. Cité in the snow has to be seen. Up to the Pyrenees for snowboard/skiing over Christmas. Markets great. Area great. So glad we saw the Christmas spirit of this city.
Sue and Jim, from Australia, 6 weeks winter 2008
We had a fantastic stay. The Penthouse is lovely, bright, light and comfortable. We loved the layout and enjoyed eating out on our rooftop terrace. Great location for the history and shopping! Thanks for a perfect stay as usual!
Best wishes Angie & Ally. from the UK, November 2008
Perfect weekend retreat. Well appointed apartment. Perfect situation for exploring Carcassonne and a visit to The Millau Bridge. Magnificent. We have had a wonderful weekend celebrating a 60 th birthday all arranged as a surprise! The Saturday market for food WOW!!! Thank you!
John & Olivia Briggs, Simon & Sarah Richards, from the UK, November 2008
Really enjoyed our stay. Apartment ideally located. Carcassonne really a lovely spot and thoroughly enjoyed the Cité. Well recommended to all.
Coleman , Eilish, Gerry, Mary and Shirley from Ireland, October 2008
Spent a lovely few days here. Georgeous apartment! We have a very energetic 18-month old but the location was perfect for her: Place Carnot to run around, a small playground under the bridge and lots of lovely child-friendly restaurants. Our absolute favourite was La Roulette, just off Place Carnot. Delicious food, relaxed environment. Had a very good high chair. Healthy, yummy child's menu (including pumpkin soup). Toys for her to play with, etc La Fontaine d'Helios on Place Carnot is excellent too.
Fiannula & Ross from Ireland, October 2008
Very nice stay here. Weather good. Cité beautiful & Canal du Midi lovely too. Wonderful shower in en suite! .
Mary & Jim , from Australia, September 2008
Great apartment - great location - have all enjoyed our stay here and weather very kind - now off to the Canal du Midi for a week but have had a wonderful start to our holiday. Plenty of room for 8!.
John & Marie, Del & Ron, Kate & Mel, Phil & Alison,
from Australia & the UK, September 2008
Super apartment in great location. Great city to spend some time in.
Mary & David, from Cyprus, August 2008
Lovely airy apartment in wonderful location. Great town to visit with children - loads of things to do. We hope to return.
Fiona, Dick, Mary, Peter, & Paul, from Ireland, August 2008
A very comfortable apartment in an excellent position. Food good, wine good, weather good. Lots to do and see around the area. Buying local produce from markets and cooking ourselves was fun.
The medieval Cité was very interesting and the Bastille Day Fireworks were fantastic. Overall it was a real experience ...
Irene & Jan, from Australia, July 2008
Thank you for providing such an excellent apartment, so bright and airy ...
Holiday was excellent, good mixture of sun and cloud, really needed one more week to get maximum benefit ...
Dean & Anne, from Ireland, June 2008
The apartment is beautiful. from the main entrance and dark stairway it is amazing to walk into such a bright and spacious apartment. It has everything you would need for a long or short stay.
The Castle is excellent at both day and night.
Overall it is a great location.
Philip & Audrey, from Ireland, June 2008
The apartment was lovely, well equipped and clean - thank you Sophie. We didn't eat out with our 5 year old, but local markets, fish and meat shops were great, we ate like kings and queens. I am sure that one day we will return. Thanks (Alison)
What more can be said - apartment great - all we needed and more - had a great time exploring the local area and tasting wine. everyone so, so friendly, will definitely come back to enjoy the local hospitality in the not too distant future. A big thank you Sophie, our time in your apartment has been great. (Carole)
... this wonderful apartment is both comfortable and full of the kind of things you need. It took us less than two hours to reach the spectacular Millau Bridge via the motorway. this is a lovely journey and the bridge is well worth the trip. We travelled back cross country where Belmont ia a beautiful little town worth seeing. The scenery is great but the drive is very windy and cannot be negotiated in a rush. ... Arriving early [at the Cité] is a great idea if you want to miss the hordes arriving by coach and gave us a peaceful drink in "Le Marrou" in the main square. The Cité is a beautiful site and there are so many restaurants to chose from. The atmosphere in the square is what makes France so good. It is peaceful yet lively. we walked from the Cité to the Canal du Midi and took a one-and-three-quarter hour boat trip up the canal. This was a lovely trip in the sunshine. The trip was good value with an excellent commentary telling us everything we needed to know. We still had time for a late afternoon drink in Place Carnot. This is a welcoming square with a good supermarket, bars, restaurants and a fishmonger who sold us some excellent prawns.
The apartment was great for us with a 5 year old. The early mornings and evenings on the roof patio were so peaceful you could hear the flaps of the birds' wings flying above. The position is great for exploring both the town of Carcassonne and the region. It has left us with some great memories. (Darren)
Darren, Alison, Rosanna & Carole, from England, May 2008
We could not have found a better long term rental. The apartment has the best light even on the dreary days of February. Great location from which to explore the coast, Andorra, the Pyrenees (Grotte de Niaux worth a visit but book in advance).. Carcassonne was great for walking and running and it was great to be here with the crowds of the old city and without the crowds in the Bastide. Both have their benefits. Will highly recommend this flat to friends.
Liz, David, Martin and Rachel, from Canada, Feb-May 2008
Enjoyed a good holiday. Ideal location, spacious and pleasant
apartment.
Wonderful, relaxing vacation.
Enjoyed Christmas fair in Place Carnot
If cooking in, do not miss the market in Place Carnot on Tuesday,
Thursday and Saturday.
... Office of Tourism on [rue] Verdun was very helpful.
Enjoyed exploring Carcassonne, but allow for business to close
for two hours during lunch.
Hope you have as much fun as we did!
Dan & Nancy, from MA, USA, December 2007
Enjoyed the history of the region. Tourist information very helpful.
Good food and atmosphere at "The Divine Comedy".
Liz, Yvonne & Patricia, from Wales, December
2007
Great time.
Apartment excellent.
Great location & train services superb.
Liz & Shane, from England, November 2007
Excellent accommodation in a great location and we even got fantastic
weather in November.
We will be back again.
Fran & Lorraine and Alan & Una, from Ireland,
November 2007
Had a great time.
Enjoyed the apartment a lot.
Tremendous location.
We shall return!
Glyne & Jocelyn, from Spain, September 2007
Had a nice time. Lots of wine and food. Particularly enjoyed
the market on Saturday, and eating out in the old town in the
evenings.
Matthew, September 2007
Had a lovely time. The flat is great - large, light + nicely
located. Enjoyed exploring the coast and the mountains including
the castes.
Dick, Becca, et al, from England, September 2007
Beautiful Penthouse apartment, ideally located. Loved the markets
and restaurants and all the historic sights. Will certainly be
coming back.
Seamus & Anna, from Ireland, August 2007
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