La Briqueterie

A fabulous addition to the portfolio, La Briqueterie offers everything required for a most enjoyable holiday including a heated pool, games room, a stylish interior with quality furnishings, and a garden that can only be described as huge. Add to the list that it is a 5 minute drive (30 mins on foot) from the nearest village, Salvagnac, home to the essential boulangerie and a couple of eateries, and we feel that La Briqueterie is a wonderful choice for families or groups of friends.

There is a pleasing balance between traditional features and contemporary style throughout. Externally, pink plaster walls and warm brickwork contrast nicely with shutters painted in a shade of blue typical of the area. Internally, the entrance hall sets the tone with a solid front door, impressive wood beams and oak staircase, punctuated by a striking chandelier above. The living room has chic sofas, wonderfully comfortable leather armchairs and French doors opening out to the garden, whilst the well equipped kitchen, attendant dining room and outdoor dining spaces ensure the self-catering aspect of the holiday becomes less of a chore, more of a pleasure.

On the first floor, the bedrooms are accessed from the galleried landing where framed artwork adds interest and colour (see if you can guess the songs from the lyrics!). The principal double bedroom is exceptionally large with its own living area (a quiet spot for some downtime). In fact, all the bedrooms are roomy and tastefully decorated, which should hopefully mean no arguments over who has which bedroom.

And there is also no lack of space outside. Encircling the property, the grounds are peppered with a variety of trees, shrubs and grassy areas, providing ample space and shade for children to run and play. Even the pool is larger than average, ideal for those that take swimming seriously. The surrounding terrace provides space for those who prefer to swap swimming for sunbathing every so often.

The village of Salvagnac sits on the hillside above La Briqueterie. It also has a minimarket and, on Wednesdays, an outdoor market. Worth noting is the café-bar which plays host to cultural and musical events – a magical way to spend a summer’s evening.

Whilst you are likely to spend many hours relaxing at La Briqueterie, with the occasional foray into Salvagnac, there is much in the local area and beyond to warrant exploration. Uncover the delights of nearby bastides, be they riverside (Lisle sur Tarn, Rabastens) or perched high atop wooded hills (Puycelsi, Bruniquel). Spend the day on the river (canoeing from Penne or a boat trip from Albi), walking in the Grésigne forest, which is a haven for a rich variety of wildlife, or discovering the local wines (Gaillac is renowned for its vineyards). A trip to Toulouse is made easy by hopping on the train at Rabastens - 30 minutes later you arrive in the beautiful ‘Ville Rose’, ready to be immersed in the sounds and sights of this vibrant city.