Inside

Au Chicot has many lovely character features: high ceilings, truly wonderful beams, some beautiful exposed stone, solid wood floors. To complement this, it has been furnished in a deliberately understated way, using a careful blend of French antique and quality contemporary pieces. Walls are white, sofas cream, colour accents being introduced by means of rugs, pretty French quilts, cushions and prints. Almost all windows have extensive views. In summer, shutters, ceiling fans and thick walls will keep you cool, while sealed unit double glazing, modern electric wall mounted radiators, plus two wood-burning stoves if necessary, will ensure cosiness on a winter break.

The accommodation:

Two of the ensuite bedrooms are on the ground floor, useful for anyone with a mobility problem, plus affording a degree of independence for two families (4+4) sharing. There is also a separate downstairs WC. The family bathroom is upstairs. Bedrooms I and II have triple aspect and share the same amazing panoramic views; the former includes French doors to the outside. The beds are a roomy 160cms in width. Bedrooms III and IV have twin beds, which can be joined to create a 180cms ('Superking'-size) bed. They look across to the old orchard and the vines beyond. All bedrooms have built-in wardrobes, with plenty of hanging space plus shelves.

The large sitting-dining room (table seats 10) benefits from double aspect, by means of two pairs of French doors, one of which opens directly onto an attractive terrace.

The kitchen-breakfast room (table seats 6), which has tiled floors, opens onto the terrace via French doors, and has hand-painted white units, including a central island, large Smeg cooker (gas hob/electric oven), as well as microwave, dishwasher, iron, kettle etc, and full-size fridge-freezer. The adjoining utility room houses a washing machine, dryer, and second fridge-freezer. The kitchen is stocked with cookbooks for inspiration and most gadgetry that you will need, including a mini food processor, and there is a cool-box plus basic picnic equipment for your days out.

The overall feel at Au Chicot is one of simple elegance and home-from-home comfort.

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