Threeroofs
This relatively undiscovered corner of France is crossed by traffic-free roads and country lanes, one of which leads only to Threeroofs and the little village of Vira, nestling in a peaceful valley 600m above sea level. It is a fascinating region with a varied landscape of mixed woodland, pastures and vineyards dotted with picturesque stone villages and a wealth of natural and historical sites. Ideally located between the sea and the mountains, Threeroofs is both a natural haven and the perfect base from which to explore this region.
The newly opened first floor gite is light and spacious (50sqm) with excellent all round views. Stone steps lead to a private roomy entrance balcony with barbecue, furniture and hammock.
The original kitchen/diner opens into a sitting area with a woodburner. The oak kitchen is well equipped and has a fridgefreezer, twin sink, gas hob and microwave oven.
Stairs lead to the double bedroom with en-suite shower room and small library of good books.
The gardens leading onto the gite and its hanging baskets give a colourful display from spring onwards.
There is plenty of shady parking opposite the house
Mountain bikes, tennis rackets and boules are available.
If contacting us by phone, call any time, but preferably in the evening.
The Accommodation at Threeroofs
-
The Balcony Gite
First floor gite with private balcony with BBQ and good views close to a charming village set in a secluded wooded valley of the Fenouilledes.
-
The Arches
Ground floor open plan studio apartment with walled courtyard close to a charming village. Set in a secluded wooded valley of the Fenouilledes, an unspoilt, rugged district of the eastern Pyrenees west of Perpignan.
Vira and the surrounding area
Services - Shop/bakery 11km, restaurant/bar 7km. Supermarket/bank 17km.
The nearby forest of Boucheville is considered to be one of Europes richest with an astounding variety of birds, mammals, butterflies and flora including Eagles, Lynx and Boar.
This natureland surrounds Threeroofs, but to explore further there is a good network of walking/cycling trails which begins at the house. You may encounter one of France's 'arbres remarkable' a colossal beech tree or some of the forest's wild cherry trees. A five minute walk leads to a limestone mountain vista which stretches all the way to the mediterranean coast beyond. For a splendid, unrivalled view of the whole region, walk or drive to the nearby Feilluns viewpoint and orientation table.
In July and August you can relax by the beautifully situated open-air pool (free) at Fosse(3km), where there is also a tennis court. Alternatively try one of the other local bathing spots. There are three floodlit boule courts in Vira a few minutes walk from the house and a plan d'eau with picnic area and botanical walk.
Vira also has a small museum and a beautifully restored church.
Warm summer evenings may be spent on the balcony where the nightingale regularly sings well into the night.
Regional Attractions
There is a wealth of natural and historical sites to visit. Just to the north is Cathar country and the imposing ruins of their mediaeval castles dominate mountain ridges,notably at Peyrepertuse (the largest in southern France) which hosts mediaeval games in the summer. This is also the country of the Holy Grail and it's associated myths. There is a scattering of Roman remains including the perfectly preserved aqueduct at Ansignan (14km) The Galamus gorge,with its hermitage(free) is a popular destination. A tantalising road traverses the 300m deep chasm with dozens of cascades and idyllic turquoise rockpools to choose from.
To the south rise the higher mountains and the majestic mount Canigou often looms into view providing a wonderful this area you will find many abbeys,priories and fortified towns such as Villefranche which is also the start of the 'little yellow train' line which snakes its way through the mountains across viaducts. Don't miss the hot springs (37C) at St Thomas les bains. There are a number of winter skiing stations ,the closest to Vira being Mijanes (57km). The nearest beaches are easily reached at Barcares(64km) The Orgue rock formations are at 32km. The Byrrh caves and the 1million L vat 45km. Collioure a beautiful harbour town is at 87km. Sigean African wildlife reserve, Carcassonne, Andora and Spain are all within reach.
Two tourist trains run in the area. The nearest station is at Caudies (11km).
Vira also sits on the fringe of the Roussillon wine producing region and you are free to visit the nearby cellars for tasting.
Activities
Most outdoor pursuits exist in the area including rafting at Axat (25km) and canyoning at Galamus gorge (22km). Rock climbing, horse riding and others are on offer at a nearby activity centre (12km). Fishing - coarse, game, river or lake - is possible.
What's Included and Payment Info
Firewood and gas are included. Linen is provided but not towels.
Prices shown are weekly but the length of stay is flexible, and you may arrive on any day, after 1500. Departure is usually before 1100.
Ref: 6293
