Cottage in France

Le Barigant details

The holiday cottage

Home description

Situated in the heart of the Pay d'Auge region of Calvados just outside the medieval town of Orbec, this recently restored holiday home sits in the owners field in the calm countryside of Normandy.  The commune of Friardel had, until the 2nd World War, a large monastery which was completely destroyed during the bombardments for the liberation of France by the allies in 1944.  One monk remained in Friardel and lived for many years in what is now this holiday home.  During his time he had no running water or electricity but the owners have rectified this situation and converted the property into a very comfortable holiday home.

The owner  Marion James, has been resident in France for 15 years and is normally on hand during your stay for any advice and help which you might require.

Accommodation detail

The double bedroom

The open plan living area

The dining area

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The cottage comprises:

Ground floor

Open plan room which contains:

• A fully fitted kitchen with electric hob, electric oven, microwave, fridge, kettle, coffee machine, all necessary crockery, cutlery and cooking implements with plenty of cupboard space.
• Dining area - the dining table and chairs allow for a very comfortable meal for 4.
• Lounge area - there is comfortable seating for relaxing.  The double sofa converts to a double bed.  Also in the lounge area is a television, DVD player, hi-fi (radio, CD and cassette player) and a Playstation.  DVD's and Playstation games are available for a small charge.  There is an open fire which is fully functional for which the owners provide logs during the winter months to supplement the electric heating and which gives a very cosy atmosphere.

First floor

• A double bedroom with wardrobe and chest of draws and leading off this is
• The bathroom with a full sized bath with shower over, WC and washbasin.  The washing machine is also installed in the bathroom.

Outside there is a lawned garden and patio with patio table and chairs and barbecue.  The owners provide, included in the price, all bedding, linen, towels and the cost of all the electricity.  The price you see is the price you pay - there are no hidden extras.

About the location

The town of Orbec is just 2km away where you will find all the necessary shops, supermarkets, bars and restaurants. There is also a weekly market every Wednesday morning.

The towns of Lisieux (23km), Bernay (18 km) and Vimoutiers (20km) are close to hand.  There are many cycle ways on the doorstep and it is also only a short hop (about 50km) to the coastal towns of Honfleur, Deauville, Trouville and Cabourg with their splendid sandy beaches.

There is a very good rail service to Paris from Bernay and Lisieux which takes about 1hr 20mins, or about 1½ hours driving time if you prefer to take the car.  The nearest golf course is at Pont l'Eveque (30km), but for a special golfing treat try the Champs de Bataille at Le Neubourg.

Calvados has a rich selection of local products to try out.  The cider and Calvados Brandy are a must as well as the local cheeses of Camembert, Pont l'Eveque and Livarot.  Speciality meals of the region include cream and apple sauces and can be found served in most restaurants in the area.

See Local guide and map for information on nearby towns and facilities.

Activities near by

Cycling, Golf, Sightseeing

See Activities and attractions for more information on nearby activities and places of interest.

How to get here

The area is well served  by the ferries.  Just 1¼ hours from Le Havre (LD Line) and Caen (Brittany Ferries and P&O FastCat). Calais and the Channel Tunnel are under 3 hours away with a motorway from Calais to the Orbec exit.

See Local guide and map for information on nearby towns and airports.