Le Nid d’Hirondelle (The Swallows’ Nest) is a three-bedroom apartment on the grounds of a grand domaine dating from 1884 in the medieval village of Rieux Minervois in rural Languedoc. The domaine was once dedicated to winemaking, and the vines and wine cave remain to this day. The apartment is located in the upper floor of the former stone barn adjoining the mansion which was once the stables of the domaine.

Le Nid d’Hirondelle was converted and fully refurbished in 2005 to retain the traditional character of a country dwelling while offering all modern comforts. Up to six guests can sleep in three ensuite bedrooms.

The main house also offers five bedrooms with B&B accommodation. Guests at Le Nid d’Hirondelle can enjoy features such as table d’hôte dining, a boutique, and a library. The whole property is called Le Domaine aux Quat’ Saisons, and is set amid two acres (a hectare) of landscaped private gardens and vineyards, shared by all guests. The 6x12 metre swimming pool surrounded by lush greenery, sunbathing areas, and a shaded poolhouse. A large pond and fountain are lit up at night, for romantic evenings under the stars. Seating areas around the garden overlook the vines, olive and fig trees.

Inside the apartment is a very well-equipped modern kitchen with a dishwasher, a stove, a microwave, a fridge, a freezer, a washing machine and a drier. The kitchen opens onto a large dining area which comfortably seats up to eight. The spacious and sun-filled living room has a vaulted ceiling and offers ample seating in sofas and armchairs. For evenings in, there is a terrestrial TV, a radio, a CD system, and board games. A separate study area lies between the dining and living rooms. Two of the bedrooms have king size beds, and one has a pair of twin beds. Each bedroom has its own modern ensuite bathroom, all containing new fittings and fixtures.

From the living room and two of the bedrooms, south-facing French windows open on to the large private terrace, which looks across the gardens and vineyard. With a summer kitchen, a barbecue, a table and sunloungers, the terrace is a delightful spot for al-fresco dining and sunbathing. From the terrace, steps lead down to the garden and swimming pool.

Le Nid d’Hirondelle is a short walk from the centre of the village of Rieux-Minervois, which has a market three times a week, several shops, and a tourist information centre.

Special features:	• Pool on the property • Bilingual assistance available on site • Maid, Cook and Driver can be arranged on request
Swimming pool:	6x12 metre outdoor pool

Le Nid d’Hirondelle is on the edge of the pretty wine-making village of Rieux-Minervois. This area is famous for its vineyards, and wine tasting tours to local domaines can be arranged on request. The village of Rieux was on the medieval pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostella and has a beautiful 11th century heptagonal church with famous stone carvings by the Master of Cabestany. There is an excellent tourist information centre in the village conducting guided tours of the church and offering extensive information on the region and its attractions. Regular concerts are held in the church and in the chateau. There are many places to explore nearby for those who enjoy walking: nearby vineyards, the river Argent Double and the garrigue smelling of rosemary and wild thyme.

Rieux hosts a market three times a week, selling regional produce including cheeses and fresh fruits and vegetables. Rieux has a good range of shops and services including two small restaurants, a butcher, bread and cake shops, a chemist, a grocer, several hairdressers, a supermarket and a café, and public tennis courts. Within easy reach are several high quality golf courses, and bathing and water sports at the Lac de Jouarres.

Transport within the region and to and from the village of Rieux-Minervois is very good. There are excellent road, rail and air connections and it is easy to visit the region's many attractions. The Minervois region has a history dating back 2000 years and this part of France is exceptionally interesting from an historical perspective.

These include the perfectly preserved medieval citadel of Carcassonne (20 minutes’ drive), the medieval castle of Lastours, and some beautiful villages such as Minerve and Lagrasse, all of which are all within easy reach of Rieux-Minervois.

The 17th century Canal du Midi, which connects the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, is just a ten minute drive. One can walk or cycle on the towpath through beautiful vineyards, or take a boat trip, visiting the traditional villages on the canal and sampling fine French cooking in the many local restaurants. Local markets selling regional produce are especially worth a visit, in particular Carcassonne and the flower market in Béziers. Narbonne, Perpignan and Toulouse are excellent centres for shopping.

The Mediterranean coast and its beaches are within easy reach, in particular the Roman town of Narbonne, and Agde and Sète. Further afield, but practical for a good day trip, are the salt marshes of the Camargue, the Pyrénées mountains, and across the border, Andorra and Catalan Spain (Girona and Barcelona). Or visit the magnificent and recently opened bridge at Milau, a feat of modern technical engineering.

The main house at Le Domaine aux Quat' Saisons	The gardens
The living room	The kitchen
The terrace	The twin bedroom
The blue ensuite bathroom	The yellow ensuite bathroom

This works. Simple as that. A glorious setting, comfortable, relaxing, and wonderful food! We congratulate you on your vision, determination and work - youve created a gem.
Clare C. - Toulouse, France

We cannot speak highly enough about our stay at your beautiful apartment. It is spectacular. Beautifully appointed and so tastefully restored! We cannot wait to return.
Eddie B. - Dublin, Ireland

Thanks for a wonderful stay at your beautiful Domaine. We have had superb food by mine host David, and after visiting France for the last fifteen years conclude that you have indeed created something very special, very cuisine aux QuatSaisons which has surpassed every other holiday! We return rejuvinated, relaxed and in your debt for your true hospitality and kindness. We will return soon. Many many thanks.
Andrew J. - Lamphey, Pembrokeshire, United Kingdom