Gausson holiday cottage: Gausson

You could hear the silence as we opened the car door - which is just what we wanted, a break away from the rigours of day to day working life and some peace and quiet in the countryside.

The cottage itself was very well equipped with an extremely comfortable bed, comfortable easy chairs, endless hot water - it was very roomy with a small deck beside the cottage where you could sit to enjoy the sunshine.

We were surprised by the lack of birdlife - we gather this is quite normal in Brittany - but we enjoyed hearing the owls hooting at night and appreciated the very clear starry night skies which you can only enjoy in the countryside away from city lights.

There are lots of small [very small!] villages to explore locally and some larger more tourist-orientated towns. We made two visits to the coast which were particularly enjoyable. There were good, cheap restaurants in nearby villages but we also cooked delicious 'specialities' from local 'bouchers' and enjoyed suppers on the deck.

Mostly, however, we enjoyed peace and quiet and read in the sunshine - it was a wonderful break and much enhanced by the attractive and comfortable cottage. We certainly found 'peace and tranquility in Brittany' - if that's what you are looking for, then this is the place for you!

We found the cottage itself to be clean, comfortable, and the kitchen equipped with everything you need for cooking meals...we were expecting a small place but felt that it was actually quite big and spacious. The owners put a lot of time and love into restoring this cottage and we liked seeing the before and after pictures!

This cottage is located in the middle of the french countryside, perfect for lots of walks and bike rides. As city people, we enjoyed seeing all the cows, chickens and beautiful stone farm houses. A fox ran by the cottage one day, and every night we could hear an owl hooting in the trees outside. There are also many small towns a short drive away, many of which have market days, bakeries, and restaurants. We felt like we were seeing the real France.

We were also able to meet the owners, Gwen and Russell, who are extremely nice people!

The cottage was perfect for my husband and I as a home base for our explorations of the countryside. It was quiet and well equipped and we much enjoyed having our dinner out on the little deck in the yard when weather and time permitted.

I loved being a part of the rural environment and have fond memories of my beautiful early morning jogs into the nearby town of Gausson and back.

The locals were friendly and helpful, but expect most of them to speak French exclusively and expect as many cows as people to be your neighbors.

The setting is precisely the sort of thing that we enjoy. Living in an urban area, we want to get away from noise and buildings when we are on holiday so this was lovely, scenic and peaceful...ideal.

There are some small local shops and restaurants in driving distance (the owners have a suggestion book) and a convenient bakery in Gausson. The nearest restaurant in Gausson was closed during our visit so we cannot advise you on it. Plan to do your more extensive shopping or more elaborate dining when you are out and about on your daily excursions. A car is a must.

The property was ample and comfortable for the two of us and would also work for a couple with a small child or two. The description and pictures are representative of the interior. The exterior shot makes it appear that the property is on a road, however it is just a gravel driveway that fronts the property and there is no traffic passing by. We sometimes sat right out in front to catch the last rays of the sunset.

If you are looking for quiet comfort, this is the place.