Long term lets (over 1 month) Short-breaks (4 days or fewer)
Changeover day:
Sat
Access:
Car essential Nearest amenities: 0.5 km
Notes:
No pets allowed Suitable for children No smoking at this property Self-catering
Home description
Belle Vue is a delightful contemporary styled villa with south facing garden terrace in a traditional French village. Situated in a quiet residential corner of the village, yet only 10 minutes walk to the boulangerie, grocers etc. Only 15 minutes drive to local beaches. Surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery and vineyards.
The 2 bedroom villa is decorated in mediterranean colours and ideal for 2-4 guests. (A family group of 6 could use the lounge double sofabed.) A modern fully equipped kitchen with breakfast bar opens to the double aspect lounge diner. French doors by the dining table open onto the side garden planted with rose bushes and fruit trees. From the lounge, french doors open to the south facing garden terrace with views of Les Alberes mountains. Relax in the sunshine on the terrace which is perfect for al fresco dining, or an afternoon siesta.
St. Genis des Fontaines is one of 'Les Alberes' villages and hamlets which lie between the Mediterranean coast and Les Alberes mountains, the foothills of the Pyrenees which borders France and Spain. Admire the views of the snow capped peak of Mt. Canigou as you explore this picturesque and historical region.
Open the bedroom shutters to the view of Les Alberes mountains
St. Genis des Fontaines
Comfortable Lounge area with french doors to garden terrace
Al fresco dining on the garden terrace
To see more photos please visit http://www.holidaylettings.co.uk/76428
The Languedoc-Roussillon / Pyrenees-Orientales region
The Pyrenees-Orientales is the most southerly area in Languedoc Roussillion. Known locally as French Catalonia, this picturesque corner of the south of France is renowned for its hot summers, mild winters and 300 days of sunshine a year, making it an all year round holiday choice.
From the the spectacular Mediterranean coast, across vast vineyards, fields of olive trees and pretty terracotta villages, you can see the majestic Pyrenees mountains which border Spain. There are many historical places to visit, and medieval hilltop towns in the countryside to explore. A rich catalan history influences the region's cuisine, culture and language. Enjoy tasting Roussillon or Banyuls wines at one of the many vineyards, explore medieval towns, discover Cathar castles and visit Romanesque churches.
Nearby Carcasonne on the river Aude is the largest medieval walled citadel in Europe and a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site. Its spectacular setting on a rocky outcrop, fascinating history and maze of narrow cobbled streets with artisan shops and restaurants are something to remember. The nearby pretty hillside town of Ceret is a delight to visit with a busy Saturday market, selling wines, cheeses and locally handcrafted gifts. Famous 19th century artists Dali and Picasso lived here, and their paintings capturing the beautiful countryside can be seen in the Museum of Modern Art. Charming Collioure, a quaint seaside fishing village surrounded by vineyards with its Chateaux Royal and 15th century fortress has attracted artists for centuries, as it is said to have 'the best light for painters'. It continues to attract visitors from all over the globe who wander the narrow winding cobbled streets, browse in the many art galleries, boutique shops, and relax in the waterside cafes and restaurants in the old harbour.
For an unforgettable holiday experience, ride in the wooden carriages of Le Petit Train Jaune. Board at Villefranche-de-Conflent, itself a popular tourist attraction, visited for its 11th century walled town and fortress. The train climbs steeply up the slopes of the Tet valley, across pastures at the foot of Mt. Canigou, and delights passengers with fantastic views of the mountain scenery as it crosses breathtaking high bridges. The final destination is Bolquere, the highest railway station in France. www.trainstouristiques-ter.com/train_jaune
In the winter you can enjoy snow sports just 90km away in Les Neiges Catalanes, an area of the Eastern Pyrenees which covers 10 ski resorts. The charming small resorts offer a total of 275km of downhill skiing and 288km of cross country skiing and hiking. You can also enjoy snowshoeing, sledging or relax and keep warm with a glass of vin chaud. Font Romeu/Pyrenees 2000, the more popular resorts can be enjoyed for a day trip, only 1.5 hour's drive.
Check the area's website for more information. www.neigescatalanes.com.
Saint Genis des Fontaines area
A traditional, peaceful French village, Saint Genis des Fontaines is one of 'Les Alberes' villages known locally for its 11th century Romanesque Abbey, St. Michel.
Enjoy a stroll into the village square to sample local produce at the weekly market, or buy a freshly baked baguette or pan au chocolat from the boulangerie. Typical village shops include a bank, tabac, pâtisserie, pharmacy, post office and also a bar, pizzeria and restaurant. Daily groceries can be bought in the square or the village convenience store. Carrefour Supermarket is just down the road.
Only 15 minutes drive or a pleasant cycle through local villages you will reach sandy beaches which are spread along the coastline to Spain. The nearest beach resorts at Argeles sur Mer and St. Cyprien are popular summer holiday resorts, with safe swimming and a range of watersports. You can enjoy excellent family entertainment and there are plenty of shops, creperies, cafes and restaurants. For children and the young at heart, cool off at Aqualand Waterpark or enjoy a day at ArgelesAventure & Parc Aquatique, a high wire forest adventure and canyoning park.
Out of peak season, when the weather is mild and sunny and the summer crowds are gone, you can enjoy quiet beaches and local festivals such as Jazzebre, an annual Jazz Festival in October in the nearby city of Perpignan. For wine lovers, Banyuls-sur-mer is the place to visit in early October to celebrate Fete des Vendanges (grape harvest festival). During December, many local markets take on a festive Christmas theme.
You can enjoy day trips to the nearby historical cities such as Perpignan, Elne or Carassonne and after sightseeing, relax on the quiet garden terrace at Belle Vue with a glass of vin rouge.
Drive along the Cote Vermeille coast through charming Collioure, Port-Vendres and Banyuls and you will reach Spain's rugged Costa Brava, just 20km away. You could even take the opportunity to visit the Salvador Dali musuem in Figueres, or enjoy a day trip to Barcelona. (If you don't fancy driving into the city centre, you might prefer to park the car at Figueres station and travel by train to Barcelona).
There are plenty of opportunities in this beautiful part of France for outdoor enthusiasts who like to spend their holiday cycling, walking or playing golf. See www.saintcyprien-golfresort.com for more information.
How to get there
Ideal as a short break destination if you fly.
The nearest airport is Perpignan, just 20km from the village of St. Genis des Fontaines. Ryanair (www.ryanair.com) flys directly to Perpignan from London Stansted, Bristol and Birmingham.
Flybe (www.flybe.com) Southampton to Perpignan runs a Summer schedule. Sunday and Wednesday flights from April to September, with an additional Saturday service which runs from May to September.
Girona (Spain) is very convenient, approx. 90km, 1 hour drive. Ryanair flys to Girona from 18 destinations throughout the UK and Ireland, including London Gatwick.
Other nearby airports are Beziers 130km and Carcassonne 150km (Ryanair), Montpellier 190km and Toulouse 245km (Easyjet) and Barcelona 180km.
Car hire is readily available with Alamo, Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, National or Sixt and can be booked directly with the airlines listed above or check the airport websites for car hire quotes:
A more leisurely option if you have time is to drive, or travel by train. Eurostar via Lille or Paris and TGV train to Perpignan (8-9hrs), Montpellier (7hrs) or Toulouse (9-10hrs). Check timetables and latest prices on www.eurostar.com and www.tgv-europe.com
Watch this space! TGV is due to launch a 50 minute service from Barcelona to Perpignan in 2012.
Nearest Travel Links
Airport:
Perpignan: 20 km
Railway:
Argeles: 8 km
Activities near Saint Genis des Fontaines
Sports: Watersports Waterpark Horse Riding Golf within 30 mins drive Fishing
Great for: Walking holidays Rural / countryside retreats Beach or lakeside relaxation A winter sun break Good nightlife Cycling holidays
Sofabeds (1), Single beds (2), Double beds (1), Dining seating for 6, Lounge seating for 4, Sleeps maximum of 4
Other:
Linen and towels provided.
Outdoors:
Balcony / Terrace, Private garden, BBQ
Access:
Parking space
Further details indoors: Belle Vue is a comfortable villa. A real home from home. The modern fully equipped kitchen has an electric oven, gas hob, large fridge/freezer, microwave, dishwasher, plenty of cupboard space and all necessary cooking utensils. The lounge diner is furnished with a double sofabed, armchair, coffee table and bookcase. The extendable round dining table provides seating for up to 6 people. There is a TV cabinet with a television, DVD player and a CD Stereo. A selection of DVDs and books are available to use during your holiday.
A Welcome Pack contains useful information and leaflets on where to go and what to do and see in the area. Also provided are a selection of local maps, guide book, dictionary and phrase book.
Beach equipment is available for you to use, such as parasaol, 4 beach towels, 2 body boards and boules.
Bedroom 1: Double Bed with bedside tables, chest of drawers, wardrobe and mirror. French doors to garden terrace.
Bedroom 2: 2 Single beds (90cm w) which can be pushed together to make a spacious Twin Bed. Bedside tables, chest of drawers, wardrobe and mirror. Window to garden terrace.
Bathroom: Bath and shower cabinet. Separate WC.
Large hall cupboard provides plenty of storage for suitcases etc.
Fans are provided in each room to keep you cool in the hot summer months. The villa has double glazed windows with electric shutters in the lounge and bedrooms. Central heating with electric radiators provide comfort and warmth in the cooler months.
An iron, ironing board and a hairdryer are also provided for your convenience. A cot is available on request.
Further details outdoors: The peaceful garden terrace with mountain views is ideal for al fresco dining and the perfect place to unwind and relax. Garden furniture is provided including a table, 6 chairs, 6 sun loungers and a barbeque.
A large retractable awning provides welcome shade on the sunny south facing terrace. The garden is planted with laurel and fir hedges, rose bushes and fruit trees, including apple, apricot, fig, peach and pear. Guests are welcome to pick and eat the fruit as it ripens.
You can park on the drive and also outside the front of the villa.
Further details
In peak season, changeover day is Saturday. Outside peak booking periods, and for short breaks the changeover day is flexible. Please contact the owner who will be pleased to discuss your specific requirements.
Towels and linen are included in the weekly rental rates. Additional linen changes or cleaning during your stay can be arranged at additional cost if required.
Conditions
25% deposit is required to secure your booking. The balance is payable 8 weeks prior to arrival date. Also a security deposit of £200 or €200 is required which will be retained during the holiday booking period and refunded after satisfactory check out.
If you book less than 8 weeks prior to arrival, the full payment is required at the time of booking.
In the event of cancellation within 8 weeks of the arrival date, the deposit is non refundable.
Payment is required in Euros.
Rental rates
Rental prices originally quoted in: Euros €
Convert to:
Period
From
To
Weekly
Nightly rate
Minimum stay
Weekday
Weekend
Summer July & August
8 Jul 09
1 Sep 09
795£716
0-
0-
1 Week
Autumn Sep to Nov
1 Sep 09
1 Dec 09
595£536
0-
0-
Flexible
December
1 Dec 09
19 Dec 09
395£356
0-
0-
Flexible
Christmas & New Year
19 Dec 09
4 Jan 10
595£536
0-
0-
1 Week
Winter January to March
4 Jan 10
1 Apr 10
395£356
0-
0-
Flexible
Spring April to June
1 Apr 10
1 Jul 10
595£536
0-
0-
3 Nights
Summer July & August
1 Jul 10
5 Sep 10
795£716
0-
0-
1 Week
Autumn Sep to Nov
5 Sep 10
1 Dec 10
595£536
0-
0-
Flexible
71
NB: Prices may be subject to change at the advertiser's discretion.
SPECIAL OFFERS and DISCOUNTS are available. Please contact owner for details.
Payment is required in Euros.
Guestbook for Belle Vue
"A lovely modern villa with so much provided. Thank you. So many places to visit, whether you prefer the mountains or coast. We enjoyed Gorges de la Fou, Les Orgues, Villefranche de Conflent and St. Martin du Canigou. All the beaches at Argeles sur Mer and Le Racou are great if you like sunbathing. Merci Beacoup pour nous vacances merveuilleuse!" Mr & Mrs P Baker, Hants Sep 09
"A lovely location which we really enjoyed. The villa and village were just right. We will certainly consider returning in the future." Mr & Mrs B Cole & family, Co. Antrim Aug 09
"We had a wonderful holiday and Belle Vue was a great base for us as we tend to alternate days on the beach with sightseeing. Our favourite beach was Le Racou and the creperie you recommended was worth a trip. We were just as happy to stay in Belle Vue to eat, drink and enjoy the view in the garden. The village is nice and quiet. A bientot!" Mr & Mrs T Griffiths & family, Bridgend Jul 09
"We enjoyed a fabulous holiday in this charming villa. Every home comfort. The area is lovely, lots to do and see if you feel so inclined, although frankly sitting on the terrace looking at the mountains, it's hard to tear yourself away. A car is essential. Can't wait to go back again." Mrs J Meadows, Hants Apr 09
Availability
See below for next 9 months' availability - to see the next 24 months click here
Key:
11
12
Booked
11
12
Available
11
12
Unknown
11
12
Arrival/Departure dates
Send Enquiry
To contact this advertiser please visit: http://www.holidaylettings.co.uk/76428
Contact details for the advertiser of home 76428
Name:
Jo Staples
Tel:
+44 (0) 1252 722291
Mobile:
+44 (0) 7801 440605
Be aware of time-zones Please mention Holiday Lettings when contacting this advertiser