'Les Cimes des Arbres' literally means 'the tops of the trees', and being set on a ridge, the panoramic views from the gite across the lush green landscape are simply stunning. Facing south, the sheltered, flower-filled courtyard in front is a real sun-trap, and with a 'table for two' right outside, you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast of coffee and croissants from the local boulangerie on those warm, sunny mornings.
And if you prefer a little welcome shade later on, you can relax under a parasol on the L-shaped outdoor sofa nestled amidst the honeysuckle and jasmine, making yourself comfortable on the cushions while you enjoy a glass of wine and a good book or perhaps have an afternoon snooze.
The 10x5m heated pool is right next to the gite and has roman steps leading down onto a gently sloping bottom, deep enough to swim with ease yet shallow enough to relax in and cool off after sunbathing. Whilst not a true infinity pool, the ground drops away steeply from the front edge, allowing you uninterrupted views even when swimming. A large south facing decked area with sun-beds and parasols runs alongside the back of the pool, plus there is another delightful eating area under the banana tree, perfect for whiling away the evening while you enjoy some french fare and, finally, watch the sun go down across the tree tops.
The gite has been fitted out to the highest standard, with a french style to the furnishings and decoration. Much of the furniture has been sourced from local brocantes and lovingly refurbished with chalk paints for an authentic french 'shabby-chic' look.
The Rococo inspired bedroom has an elaborate and fabulously comfortable king-size bed with non-allergy duvet and pillows dressed in smooth, soft 600-count cotton bed linen. The bedroom window offers views across the courtyard and scenery beyond, ideal if you want to enjoy a lazy breakfast in bed. There's plenty of hanging and drawer space in the characterful painted french furniture, plus a bright, modern en-suite with its rococo sink unit and mirror and large shower.
The sitting and kitchen area is light, bright and sun-filled due to the double-width french doors which open directly out onto the private courtyard. The solid wood kitchen is well-equipped with fridge, washing machine, combination microwave oven and ceramic hob, plus a Nespresso coffee maker for those of you who appreciate really good coffee. And for those rare occasions when you might want to eat inside, there is a breakfast-bar just perfect for two.
In the cosy sitting area, there are two leather tub-chairs facing a wall-mounted flat screen smart TV with DVD player and Freeview box. There's free wifi of course, plus NetFlix available to watch should you fancy closing the curtains and having a quiet night in.
The gite is attached to our house at one end but on a lower level. You will have access to the whole of the property and grounds except for our private house and the upper terrace, which is gated off. The gite has its own entrance and private parking at the rear of the property, so you can come and go as you please. We are situated at the end of a no-through road, so there is virtually no passing traffic. We will be available for any help you might need throughout your stay and are happy to recommend restaurants or places of interest etc. should you need it.
Finally, just a few things you might want to know...... Pool maintenance and gardening chores can take us into the gite area on occasions, but we always try to do these when our guests are out if at all possible and endeavour to respect your privacy at all times. We have a small dog but he has no access to the gite area. We do live in a rural area and would not recommend booking our gite without the use of a car - unless you are very keen walkers or cyclists!
We very much look forward to welcoming you to Les Cimes des Arbres, and hope that you will love the gite and the beautiful countryside around it as much as we do.