Set between the mountains and the Mediterranean
Maison de la Place is set between the mountains and the Mediterranean sea, in Languedoc which is regularly referred to as the real south of France. It is an ideal all-year round base for either a short-break, a self-catering activity or sightseeing holiday – or longer stay.
Situated in the heart of Saint-Chinian, these stylish, spacious and sunny (mostly south facing) apartments, converted in late 2007, provide free high-speed broadband WiFi internet access, air conditioning, as well as English and French TV and radio, and yet retain some of the original features of one of the oldest buildings in this lively, historic wine village. Their mostly sunny open aspect and large windows directly overlook the large village square with its thriving twice-weekly markets (Thursday and Sunday mornings). Plenty of free, safe parking is available right outside the property.
Immediately outside Maison de la Place is plenty of shaded seating to enjoy the relaxed French way of life. A peaceful garden, boules, cafés for enjoying a coffee or glass of the local wine, are all literally on your doorstep. There are restaurants, boulangeries, boucheries, a bio food shop and supermarket, bicycle hire, banks, post office, pharmacy, newsagent, coiffeur, dry-cleaners, tennis and river fishing, all within a few minutes walk.
There is always such a lot to see and do in and around Saint-Chinian, that you will never be bored. Famous for its AOC wines, great location, 300 days of sunshine per year, historic Cathar castles, and the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, a week or two provides only enough time to make you want to come back, time and again. In most years, during July the world famous Tour de France passes close-by.
The interesting cities of Narbonne and Beziers are within approximately a 30 minutes drive; Montpellier, Perpignan and Carcassonne about an hour. All are excellent for shopping as well as soaking up the culture and history of the region. The glorious beaches are a pleasant 40 minutes drive away.
Saint-Chinian is also only 15 minutes from the Canal du Midi which links the Mediterranean to the Atlantic. A World Heritage Site, it is ‘a must’ to visit where pleasure boats and the seasons provide a constantly changing landscape. You can stroll under the shady plain trees, or rent a bike from the Capestang tourist office. We now have a lovely cabin cruiser boat for trips on the Canal du Midi!