DOMAINE DE LA HILLE

Lying in the rolling foothills of the Pyrenees, Domaine de la Hille offers the perfect base from which to explore the lush, green interior of France’s Occitanie region. A captivating mix of countryside, mountains, and sea, this fascinating corner of the country is renowned for its staggering scenery, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, cycling, and riding, alongside a wealth of history and rich local gastronomy. The villa’s proximity to the famous fortified medieval city of Carcassonne is a real draw, though there’s plenty more to explore a little further afield, including the eerily beautiful, pink-hued salt marshes and lagoons near Narbonne, along with a scattering of grand fortresses and châteaux set among the heather- and cypress-clad hills. For keen walkers, the pretty village of Fanjeaux lies a scenic 45-minute hike from the villa, home to a simple restaurant and a handful of shops.

With roots dating back to the 11th century, Domaine de la Hille has been lovingly restored by its current owners. Traces of its long history remain throughout, from wooden ceiling beams and antique French furniture in the eight bedrooms — which include a dedicated children’s dormitory — to stone fireplaces and exposed brickwork found throughout the communal living spaces. During high season, a private chef takes charge of the kitchen, foraging seasonal produce from the grounds’ large vegetable garden to create dishes including the region’s celebrated signature dish, cassoulet.

There’s plenty to keep guests entertained across the manicured lawns surrounding the house, with everything from bicycles to badminton, boules, volleyball, and archery equipment provided. Guests can make the most of the estate’s 10 acres of parkland and wildflower meadows, or unwind beside the glinting, emerald-tiled swimming pool after an energetic game of tennis on the court tucked away in a quiet corner of the grounds.