We have two secluded gîtes in the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park of the Auvergne (Map) which is in the Massif Central of France. They are privately owned by different families and were bought and renovated for personal use as second homes. Because of this the level of equipment and décor is designed for the comfort of a family second home which makes either ideal for renting for your holiday in France. The two houses are quite different and each has its own character and charm. They are 15 minutes walk from each other and so would be ideal for two families wanting to stay close to but not "on top of" one another.

If you want to chill out and read, listen to music or walk in beautiful countryside (or indeed mountain bike or even cross-country ski December to March) then this is the place for you. If you want the beach and nightlife then forget it! The only disturbing noises come from owls at night. Towns and cities close by include Ambert with a great market in summer (25 minutes), Thiers the cutlery capital of France (45 minutes) and Vichy (70 minutes). The nearest villages are about 5 and 10 minutes drive.

The views of the forests and mountains of the Livradois Forez are enchanting. There is some lovely wildlife to be seen including deer, red squirrels and wild boar. There are always birds of prey overhead calling to one another. The Gîtes are in the mountains of the Auvergne at 700 and 800 metres above sea level. Climate can be quite variable but the main experience has been hot sunny days and cool (insect free) evenings in the summer. Thunderstorms (sometimes spectacular) aren't uncommon but are usually short-lived. In winter, temperatures are often below freezing and there is reliable snow for cross-country skiing about 10 miles away. There are also some downhill pistes about 15 miles away.

Getting there - the Gîtes are about 8 Hours drive from Calais or 4½ hours from Paris. Budget air fares are available to St Etienne (70 Minutes drive) and Geneva (4 Hours drive).

no smoking accommodation