Archive for December, 2011

Feature Accommodation: Maison De L’Orb, Beziers, France

Friday, December 16th, 2011

Absolute comfort and contemporary French chic. South west facing and en-suite rooms with a fresh and light barefoot beach ambience. Fresh bed linen, bespoke fabrics, original tile flooring and all the elements expected of a boutique bolt hole. Sunbathe in the private garden overlooking the river l’orb and breakfast in the beam exposed dining room on an array of pastries, granola, homemade preserves, meats, cheese and fresh fruit.

Welcome to Maison De L’Orb.

Although you find it difficult to notice, the core of Maison De L’Orb dates back to the mid nineteenth century when the house was in prime location standing ahead of the former beach in Beziers.  The story goes that the former house was divided up into three apartments in the early part of the twentieth century before returning to one main house some fifty years later.  The occupants of the house during World War Two ensured theirs was a safe haven and was used by frequent escapers and those fleeing the Nazi forces.  In the garden stands the former lavorie – the boat wash-house.  Sitting in our garden (where you can sunbath and relax) it makes a wonderful sight especially at sunset.  We are currently in the planning stages of turning this wonderful building into a summer kitchen and restaurant.

Bought in 2007, the house was losing its soul.  It was tired and dowdy to say the least but over the last several years the former top apartment has been converted into five en-suite bedroom with another apartment now home to our dining room and guest reading room.  The whole house has been carefully restored to its former glory and brought into the twenty first century whilst retaining the charm of the past.  With plenty of character and echoes of an old France gone by, we feel we have captured the flavour of what a bed and breakfast should be. From the enchanting Moroccan tiles, the smells of fresh flowers and incense filling the rooms through to the intimate library of books and board games; it’s no wonder why guests are returning.

Each of the five bedrooms provides guests with excellent accommodation, crisp bed linen and magnificent views, and all rooms have a touch of the modern with plasma televisions and a full hospitality tray. An intimate four course evening meal can also be offered.

Beamed ceilings, original stone walls, tiled flooring, books and original art. The informal mood is achieved with effortless style. Sympathetic to its proud heritage, the welcoming interior combines clean lines with a neutral palette. Sip a glass of rose in the garden while the sun sets. Take a long stroll along the nearby Canal Du Midi. Walk the streets of Beziers and take in the local atmosphere, cafes and shops. Your appetite will sharpen itself.

Inside, Maison De L’Orb, big windows show off views across to Pont Vieux. One recent reviewer was quoted as saying “Unpretentious friendly service sets the tone”.

Sit and watch the sun sink.

 

 

 

Feature Accommodation: Castle Townshend, County Cork, Ireland

Monday, December 5th, 2011

The Castle, which was built in the early 1700s and is the family home of the Townshends,  is situated in its own extensive grounds along the shore of Castlehaven harbour in Castletownshend in County Cork on the south coast of Ireland.  Our terrace overlooks the water and most of our bedrooms have a sea view as does our dining room for breakfast.

B&b costs from €45 per person per night.  We also have self catering cottages, apartments and houses nearby sleeping from 2 – 10 people in each accommodation.

For more information see listing here.