The Old Farmhouse: Farmhouse Rental, 3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 8 in Villelongue-de-la-Salanque

Overview: Staying at Mas de la Riviere provided everything we wanted from our French Mediterranean holiday – from the generous space and excellent facilities to the kindness and support of the owners in residence onsite. The location was an ideal mix of private family time at the house, sightseeing in the local area, and local quality beaches. We spent 3 weeks there with a group ranging from 5 to 68 years old and everyone found it thoroughly enjoyable.

The Setting: a quiet corner of a country village providing peace and solitude whilst giving easy access to local attractions and amenities. A real French feel to the setting, retaining much of the traditional character of the farmhouse which made it feel very “real”. Was also a great area for running and cycling as the roads were mostly quiet and devoid of cars.

Facilities: inside the house the facilities were exactly what you would expect from a high end holiday house – fully equipped kitchen, TV and entertainment system, spacious rooms with plenty of seating and lighting, and adequate provision for clothes etc. in the bedrooms. Outdoors, the barbecuing and eating facilities were thoughtfully planned with generous amounts of space around each house. Privacy was achieved whilst allowing free and easy access around the gardens and to the pool area. The huge garden also provided plenty of space for the children to run around, use the playground, ping-pong table and other facilities on offer.

Pool: cleaned every morning by the owners. Although it is immediately behind the rear of the owner’s house (i.e. in their back garden) it always felt very comfortable being there. Lots of pool toys, flippers, etc. all provided in the pool room.

Owners: a lovely couple who were attentive without being imposing. Always available should we have a question and informative on what’s on locally. Jeni will prepare evening meals upon request which was absolutely ideal on our first night having taken a late afternoon flight. Also did a first shop to get the essentials in the fridge!

Value for money: the cost of renting the houses is not cheap but is entirely justified given the facilities and ambience of the setting, the level of service and support from the owners and the resulting enjoyment.

Overall Verdict: we'll be back...!!