Lower Normandy Gite Rental near Ranes

We are fortunate to own two holiday homes and of course cannot be in two places at once. We have children and are therefore tied to school holidays, so we would like to share these lovely properties with like minded people.
These are our 'homes' and I hope you agree that they are not just holiday homes for rent. We even let our home in Frogham, near Fordingbridge, in the New Forest in the school holidays - ask for details, Take a look at our chalet in Switzerland www.chalettorent.com
www.ownersdirect.co.uk

Background to the gite in Lower Normandy like home

La Balayrie is a 300 year old farmhouse which originally consisted of a farmhouse, barn and ‘cow shed, in one very long granite building with a peg tile roof.The gite now comprises ‘the house’ which is arranged over two floors. 'The barn' which has been converted to provide extra living accommodation with mezzanine, the ‘cave’ and enclosed BBQ area.

The House part of our gite in Lower Normandy

The original house has been renovated and furnished to retain it’s rustic charm. This is no apology, we have exposed and repointed beautiful granite walls with a wealth of sand blasted oak beams.

The ground floor is one very large ’living’ room, with a massive granite fireplace and woodburner , a sofa and 2 sofa beds. The kitchen area is made from reclaimed Victorian cupboard doors, with an electric cooker, fridge and dining table. There is a TV with freesat sky www.sky.com and orange TV www.orange,com  ,videos and dvds, so English and Frech channels via the less attractive dishes. There are plenty of games, toys and books.
Land line telephone and Orange telephone and free wifi internet access.
Upstairs is the converted granary, accessed via the original wooden staircase which is very steep and children and the elderly need to take extra care. Here the room is open to the ridge, displaying the wonderful ‘A ‘frame beams. There is one huge bedroom with a double bed and two single beds, a large bathroom with an authentic, French freestanding bath, washbasin and bidet, but new toilet. There is ample hot water to enjoy a deep relaxing bath in an old roll top bath.As a family we have shared this room for many years with our boys.

Heating
The fire is the most effective and enjoyable way to heat the house in the cooler months, but there are also electric radiant radiators. In the summer you should have warm and sunny weather. 35-40 degrees is not unusual but as with the UK cannot be guaranteed. The thick granite walls give a cool retreat during the hot spells and there is generally a breeze in the air.

The Barn near Ranes in Lower Normandy

An interconnecting door divides the ‘old’ from the ‘new’. This area has a large fully fitted open plan kitchen (with freezer, dishwasher and washing machine), dining and living area. There are three sofas to relax in and a stereo CD player to relax to. We have a french TV in here which can also entertain the children with videos. There is a double bedroom downstairs and a bathroom with separate shower. Greatfor those with mobility problems. Upstairs the mezzanine has two single beds. We love this room with it’s high ceiling and beautiful beam work. This area has electric central heating. This area is great for those not so pleasant days with lots of space for the children to 'play'.Large glass doors open onto a ‘balcony’ area for morning coffee, afternoon tea or aperitif.

Location of holiday home in Ranes, Lower Normandy

The house is situated at the end of a private drive surrounded by it’s own land of about one acre. The grounds are then surrounded by open countryside and only one neighbouring property adjacent to the drive. There are lovely countryside views of fields and hedgerows.

Catering for those special occasions

I recently met Tina and David who run a great catering business look on www.bristowandsayer.com

This would be great if you are holidaying with family and friends and want to enjoy a reataurant meal at home without worrying about children and driving!!