Our vacation rental is ideal for those who want to recharge their batteries far from urban stress and pollution, and who wish to immerse themselves in the countryside. The rental is brand-new, completed in June 2008, and is located in the western part of the owners’ house, yet it is completely independent and private. There is only one guesthouse on the property, which is a former coaching inn dating back to 1790, built of white stone. The house is surrounded by fields of wheat and sunflowers, with magnificent views of the surrounding countryside.<br><br>A must-see is in June, when the jasmine hedge is in full, glorious bloom and fragrant. The long evenings on the terrace will be unforgettable! Enjoy the long hours of sunshine by the pool or in the large, beautifully maintained garden.<br><br>Two bedrooms—one with a king-size bed and the other with two single beds—each with an en suite bathroom.A very well-equipped kitchen with a dining/living area featuring a sleeper sofa and TV. Outside, you’ll find a large covered and sheltered terrace with metal table and chairs, a barbecue, and a large garden with lounge chairs, a table under the trees, a bocce court, and magnificent sunsets.<br>The 12x7m pool is on the left, in front of the house, where you’ll often have it all to yourselves.<br><br><br>A bit of history: this region in the southwest was once very prosperous thanks to the production of pastel, over which it held a virtual monopoly. It was the wealth brought by this beautiful blue dye that gave the Lauragais the name “Pays de Cocagne”—“cocagne” being a ball made of dried pastel leaves. Pastel producers and merchants grew immensely wealthy during this period (1450-1560),, hence the current meaning of “Pays de Cocagne” as “land of plenty.” The beautiful mansions, private estates, and castles stand as a testament to this golden age.<br>We are also in Cathar country, a region where this religion flourished in these rather nonconformist lands. In the early 13th century, several crusades were waged by Catholic and political authorities seeking to eradicate this “heresy.” The Cathars and their leaders, the “Perfect Ones,” took refuge in “eagle’s nests”—fortresses perched high in the mountains. In the end, they were all massacred. Today, these Cathar castles have become magnificent historic sites, nestled in the heart of a wild and romantic countryside.<br><br>Hiking: The GR7 and GR653 trails that cross this region are part of the Camino de Santiago routes in northern Spain. Both trails are ideal for summer hiking because they are well shaded. The Lauragais is bathed in golden hues in summer, with its countless fields of wheat and sunflowers. It’s particularly pleasant to hike there in the fall and spring, when it’s cooler and the colors are more vivid. September and October are very pleasant months in the southwest—warm and dry without being scorching.<br>Many hiking trails pass through the region’s charming hilltop villages, such as St. Paulet, Montmaur, St. Félix de Lauragais, and others. These hikes often offer the chance to stop for a meal or a picnic in picturesque spots along the loop trail.<br>Of course, there are also more challenging and physically demanding trails! The trails are well-maintained and clearly marked.<br><br>Other activities: This region is very popular with cyclists. In fact, the Tour de France passes through here every year. If you’re not a fan of hill climbing, there’s also the Canal du Midi and its side canals, which offer pleasant, flat, and shaded routes along the water.<br>There are several tree-top adventure courses in the region, including the excellent “Cri de Tarzan,” just 20 minutes from the cottage. Spectacular yet very well supervised and safe, this spot is sure to entertain the whole family.<br>Nearby is “Aubépine,” a quad and go-kart park for all ages. In Lavaur, there’s an 18-hole golf course, and tennis courts are scattered throughout the surrounding area, including in Cuq Toulza and Puylaurens.<br>For beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts, don’t miss the beautiful Lake St. Férréol. The Mediterranean beaches are just a 1.5-hour drive away.<br>You can also rent a small boat and drift along the green banks of the Canal du Midi—a very refreshing experience. The numerous locks offer memorable moments for spectators and boaters alike.
