Domaine Villardonnel

Tucked between meadows, olive groves, oak and pine forests, Domaine Villardonnel is a Languedoc villa rental that will entice you with its natural wonders and charming elegance. This lovely 265 acre property features two recently restored villas (one accommodating 14 guests, and the other, four*), a large pool area, an intersecting river, and plenty of room for hiking or horseback riding. Nearby is the fascinating medieval city of Carcassonne and the famous Canal du Midi. Both villas offer comfortable furnishings, fully equipped kitchens, and en-suite bathrooms for all eight bedrooms.

Included in the rental price: Gas, electricity, garden and pool maintenance

Available upon request at additional cost: Chef service, extra maid service, babysitting, horse boarding

*Prices listed are for renting both villas, which must be rented together during summer months. To rent either the large or small villa separately during the rest of the year, please inquire for pricing.

The Grande Villa sleeps 14 guests in six spacious and comfortable bedrooms (all with en-suite bathrooms). The living and dining rooms offer sofa and chairs, a fireplace, Satellite TV, a dining table, original tile floors and colorful rugs. The kitchen is fully equipped with a stove, oven, fridge/freezer, microwave, toaster, kettle, dishwasher, and washing machine. A large room is available for family gatherings, meetings, etc.

The Petite Villa sleeps four guests in two comfortable bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom. The recently refurbished villa, which is nestled in a five-acre woodland, is cozy and inviting. The kitchen has everything you need for meal preparation, including a stove, oven, fridge/freezer, microwave, washing machine and dishwasher. The living area offers two sofas, fireplace and chairs, and the dining table can seat up to six guests.

Both villas have access to the large, secured, pool. Baby cots are available upon request.

Each summer, from mid June through mid August, Carcassonne plays host to one of the major cultural events in Southern France; the "Festival de Carcassonne". The nearly 120 shows feature opera, dance, theater, classical music, French and international popular music, and modern music. Many of the performances are free! For the full program and more information, visit www.festivaldecarcassonne.fr