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Manager: Paul Dale
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Overview
Description
The property “Au Paradis Des Cigales” lies in a stunningly beautiful location seven kilometres to the north of Bize Minervois.The property nestles among the vines in this forgotten valley, this property can truly offer a secluded haven in which to enjoy your holiday.
Whether you are looking for an action packed sightseeing trip or planning to do little more than laze by the pool, there will be something for you.
The accommodation is all on one level, furnished to a high standard with some interesting antiques.
There is a good sized swimming pool, dedicated solely for the use of your party with a seperate barbecue area with full size built-in barbecue. There are also a number of bikes available for cycle rides.
Au Paradis occupies the whole ground floor of the bergerie. It is approached from the terrace shaded by ancient olive trees. The house very comfortably accommodates up to eight people in four bedrooms. There is a fireplace and electric heating for the colder seasons.
Large living room has several French windows opening onto the terraces, making it very easy for summer living.
Kitchen has Dishwasher, Cooker, Ironing facilities, Microwave, Washing machine, Electric hob, Electric oven, Fridge-Freezer.
Master bedroom is en suite.
Two double bedrooms, one with French windows onto the terrace.
One twin bedroom is also en suite.
Family bathroom with separate bath and shower.
Separate WC
The property is surrounded by a well kept garden. There are ancient olive trees offering shady spots to relax in the heat of the afternoon. An olive grove for the children to play in. Behind the property we have eight acres of private garrigue for you to explore.
Minerve
Minerve lies to the west and had a fortress in the Middle Ages. One of the most dramatic moments in the war against the Cathars took place here in 1210, when the town witnessed the first great burning of the heretics. The Crusaders condemned more than one hundred and forty souls to the flames. The Oppidum d’Enserune rises 120 metres above the Beziers plain and has been occupied since the 6th Century BC.
Well worth a visit and also worthy of note is the view of the drained lake of Montardy, which can be seen from the oppidum. Minervois, as a region is famous for its wines and that will become instantly obvious as you tour the area. The wines are generally fruity robust reds of good quality. The exception being the excellent Muscat produced in St. Jean de Minervois only a 10 minute drive and a must for the wine cognoscenti.
https://www.france-voyage.com/tourism/minerve-1022.htm
Carcassonne
Carcassonne is famous for being the largest medieval fortress in Europe.
There are really two towns, the lower town dating from the thirteenth Century and the more famous Cite, the upper walled town, which has been occupied since earliest times.
Much of what can be seen today is a nineteenth Century restoration, but it certainly should not be missed on a trip to this area. The view from a distance cannot fail to impress. If your visit includes the 14th July, they have a wonderful firework display here.
https://www.tourism-carcassonne.co.uk/
Narbonne
A major centre since Roman times, Narbonne is a city with much to offer. The cathedral dominates the skyline from a distance; in fact it has the third highest vault of any Gothic cathedral in France. It is well worth a visit, as are the Treasury and the two buildings of the Archbishop’s Palace. The Canal de la Robine offers somewhere to stroll and perhaps have lunch at one of the nearby restaurants. The Halles de Narbonne is a daily covered market where fresh produce can be purchased if you are planning to cook in the evening. Finally, the archaeological museum is a must. There are excellent displays of artifacts from Narbonne’s history and especially the Roman period, when this city was the capital of Provincia Romana Narbonensis.
https://www.tourism-occitanie.co.uk/major-sites/narbonne-roman-holidays
Les Montagnes de la Clape and the Beaches
This is an important wine growing area between Narbonne and the beaches. The scenery is simply stunning and well worth investigating. There are several good vineyards here that are open to the public. Château Pech-Celeyran at the northern end and Château Pech Redon in the south are worth a visit. There are also some good beaches; Fleury d’Aude is excellent, especially if you want to get away from the crowds. The village of Gruissan with its ochre coloured houses is a perfect spot to have a long lunch. Seafood, as you may expect, is very good here.
https://visit-lanarbonnaise.com/en/what-to-see-in-the-clape-massif
Corbières
This important region stretches south from Narbonne. Its sun drenched limestone hills have a beauty that is quite incredible.
The area is littered with the remains of numerous monastic institutions and châteaux.
https://www.tourisme-corbieres-minervois.com
Other Useful Area Links
http://www.destination-languedoc.co.uk/
https://www.tourism-occitanie.co.uk
http://www.bizeminervois.fr/
https://visit-lanarbonnaise.com/en/
Local Amenities
Nearest bakery: Bize Minervois (Aude)
Nearest bar: Bize Minervois (Aude)
Nearest market: St Chinian (Herault) – This Market Is On A Sunday, So Good For Stocking Up On Arrival.
Nearest pharmacy: Bize Minervois (Aude)
Nearest supermarket: Bize Minervois (Aude)
Tourist information: Ginestas (Aude)
For a choice of restaurants in the area, please visit our website
2 Reviews
Leave ReviewIn the vineyards
By Joanna on 13-Sep-2025Hidden away within the vineyards is a lovely find. A very pretty big l property where we loved lazing by the pool eating the figs and relaxing. Philip made a delicious welcome meal for us. There are plenty of restaurants markets and sights of interest but a car is essential. If you want peace and tranquility then this is just right for you.
Paradise indeed
By Marjorie Fraser on 14-Jun-2025I have stayed in this beautiful place with my daughters nearly every year-excepting through Covid- since 2017. As soon as we walk in through the gates into the lovely garden, we are able to relax. The house is comfortable and well equipped. We have appreciated the changes that have been made internally over the years and it remains well maintained We always make good use of the lovely pool. . Philip ( or his deputy) is a genial host and usually provides a welcome meal on arrival for the weary traveller. The house is in quiet and beautiful surroundings with the nearest village only a 10 -15 min drive away. Fresh bread and groceries can be bought there and there are also several good restaurants. We have explored a great deal of the area and have our favourite places we return to but also manage to discover new. We return again this year and we are very much looking forward to our stay there in June.