Le Domaine de Villespy

It’s hard to know where to begin reviewing somewhere like this… the superb hosts, the breathtaking grounds, the amazing history, superb furnishings, the fascinating home, it’s all here, and more. The bedroom’s are wonderful, gorgeously decorated and furnished with superb taste, the most amazing bedding (seriously, I need some of those pillows!). And whether it’s breakfast on the balcony, dinner in the amazing dining room, or relaxing by the pool in the afternoon the whole property is a feast for the eyes. It’s wonderful.

Beautifully decorated rooms, we were on the top floor, in a gorgeous house where all details are worth looking at and welcomed by a wonderful lady host ! Breakfasts were delicious and beautifully arranged on tables on the terrace and despite the heat wave outside, the rooms were fresh thanks to a perfect air conditioning in place: discreet, not noisy, not too cold! A must if you plan the visit this gorgeous region! Des chambres magnifiquement décorées, nous étions au dernier étage, dans une maison magnifique où tous les détails valent la peine d'être regardés et accueillis par une hôtesse chaleureuse mais discrète! Les petits déjeuners étaient délicieux et joliment disposés sur les tables de la terrasse et malgré la canicule les chambres étaient de véritables havres de paix et de fraicheur grâce à une climatisation parfaite en place : discrète, pas bruyante et pas trop froide ! Un must si vous envisagez de visiter cette magnifique région !

Absolutely delightful stay at Le Domaine de Villespy, the home is enchanting, full of character and charm. The proprietors are a lovely, delightful family consisting of a couple, their children, grandparents and multiple pets. Arriving at the property, you are slightly confused, the front of the home is very deceiving to the size and beauty hidden behind the main front door. The home’s age is in question, but dates back at least a few centuries, with multiple updates, changes and additions making it even more charming, each room is individually decorated with care and style. The large shower and Bathroom have large towels, hand towels and there is a hairdryer. The king size bed is heavenly. Plenty of light and a nice sitting area. Hot water kettle and a Nesspresso maker is available. After checking into our large room overlooking the town center we retreated to the wonderful pool to relax and swim. The large outside grounds has lovely shade trees and areas to explore. We took a stroll around the village before dinner, not much there, it is a quite, traditional beautiful village with friendly people surrounded by the amazing countryside full of agriculture and vineyards. Close to Braum, Canal du Midi and Castelnaudry. We first enjoyed some lovely wine and conversation before dinner with the grandparents, David and Liz who are delightfully Scottish with marvellous stories of their lives. Liz recalling her days as a stewardess with BEA and later British Airways. David was in the army and later a Bobby. We discuss the wonders of Kenya and Safaris. Emilie and Doug, are the perfect host, paying attention to every detail of service and hospitality. The wine was a local red Minervois which we are now discovering. Dinner was started with a simple Amuse-bouche, cucumber and pate served with champagne. A delightful salad with warm linguee and vinaigrette dressing, main was a perfectly cooked pork tenderloin with a green sauce and Haricots Verts. Dessert was a perfect country clafouti. Finished dinner with a cappuccino and enjoyed the evening shy, full of shooting stars and satellites. Slept so completely, the king size bed linen was luxurious, we left the windows open to enjoy the cool night air and slept all night. Our departure was set for 10, we arranged for a ride to the train station via Castelnaudry. Breakfast at 0830, perfect homemade jams, local honey, croissants, homemade yogurt, fresh fruit and pancakes were served accompanied by French press coffee, fresh juice and water. Next time we are in this part of France we will make the effort to ge guest here again and enjoy the wonderful hospitality.

This is an exceptional place to stay. Newly renovated, the Domaine has its extraordinary heritage and character preserved but with the comfort and practicality of modern trimmings (like double glazing and a well-appointed bathroom). Sitting on the terrace for breakfast or dinner, you'll overlook the centuries-old linden trees and the folly at the back of the garden feeling very pleased with yourself. The people making this all possible are the kind, attentive and thoughtful family that host you. And it really is a family – French-Scottish, we met three generations, plus the pets. There is a genuine warmth to their service, and they back it up with skill. The generous breakfast deserves special mention: homemade jams, local honey, perfect croissants and pain au chocolats, fresh waffles, homemade yoghurt etc. And don't go anywhere else for dinner. Enjoy the local products, Emilie's cooking and the view from the terrace after a tough day of being a tourist. (NB parents: we travelled with two young children and were provided with everything we needed, including a large cot, high chair for our toddler and even knitted toys to take home with us.)