Sauve, France, OCCITANIE: a 2 bedroom country cottage with private garden and with shared Salt pool access, a short 15 min walk to the MEDIEVAL village of Sauve
(Map and Photos shown below)
Sauve: Sauve is situated at the base of the Cevennes mountains with many vineyards, many small french villages, numerous hiking and biking trails, and kayaking/ canoeing during the summer. On the heights above the village of Sauve is the famous, La Mer de Rochers - the ocean of rocks, which provides hikers with magnificent views, sculpted rocks, wild nature, known for its restorative and transformative powers.
Country Cottage: Come visit and relax in our private 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom (shower and toilet) cottage with private garden and terrace.
The cottage with terrace is 112sqm (1205 sqft) fully equipped with 2 king size beds, an open living room area with kitchen, 3 bar stools, a round kitchen table with 4 chairs, two couches, coffee table and TV with French channels and a smart TV to log into your apps such as, Netflix or Amazon to watch your favorite movies or TV programs. WIFI is available throughout the cottage and garden. The cottage has a shower and toilet (not a bathtub), a laundry room with washer and a dryer. Outside the large bedroom is a covered terrace with table and 4 chairs which overlooks the garden with 4 Adirondack chairs and two lounge chairs for hanging out in the shade under trees. Walking out into the garden you step into an area of faux grass followed by a pebbled garden and beautiful trees for shade (see photos). Watch Video of the Cottage at Cottage Domaine de Saxe-Roux video
Description: The cottage has a private garden, a terrace, and you will have access to our salt swimming pool between April-September. The cottage is located next door to our Bastide-style stone house, but is totally private. You will be within a 15 minute walk to the village of Sauve which has over 10 restaurants, cafes, and hosts many festivals during the summer.
Green Walking and Biking Path: There is a “green” walking and bike path within a 10-minute walk connecting you to the nearby village of Quissac (6 km to east and to the village of St. Hippolyte-du-Fort, 9 km to the west). If you are a biker, bring your bike or simply walk or stroll along the green path or on you can choose to do any of the many beautiful country hikes.
Car required: You will need a car to maximize your visit beyond the village of Sauve. There are many terrific 1/2 day and day trips available in the Gard area within an hours drive, then come home to relax in your private garden, resting in your living room, or taking a swim in our salt-water pool.
Day Trips: Sauve is within an hour drive of many amazing towns, activities, hiking, rivers, and natural beauty. The cottage is situated 20 minutes by car from the village of Sommieres, where there is a well-known Saturday market and Sunday Brocante to explore. Driving 50 minutes by car on beautiful small country roads will take you to beautiful medieval town and Duchessy of Uzes, which has another well-known Saturday market which is definitely worth visiting. If you are interested in wine tasting visit the numerous wineries in the Pic St Lou area. Drive 20 minutes to the famous potters town of Anduze or take the old Steam Train to St-Jean-du-Gard for lunch and then return. The train also stops at the Bambouserie (Bambou forest and gardens) along the way which is an amazing garden of bamboos and various other plants. If you love gardens, this is a wonderful place to go for a day visit and to plan on a picnic or eat at a local restaurant. Kyaking at LaRoque (near Ganges is available throughout the summer for 7, 8, and 15 km trips. A variety of caves are nearby for cave dwellers as well as numerous hiking areas.
Click on Link for all information in the area by the Tourism office Piemont -Cevenol tourisme
The larger historic Roman town of Nimes with its colosseum is a 30 minute by car ride with Arles an additional 30 minutes down the road. If you are interested in the city of Montpellier (“the Paris of the south”) for great shopping or many of the fabulous sandy beaches and beach villages such as Palavas, AIgues-Mortes, Carnon-Plage, La Grande Motte, Le Grau du Roi, you can reach them all within1 hour.
Day trips are extensive in every direction. Plan on going to visit a local site and come back in the late afternoon and relax by the salt-water pool or in your private garden. In the evenings have a great meal at a nearby restaurant in Sauve. Alternatively, cook for yourself and eat in your garden or on your terrace.
Ideas of places nearby are seen in this link https://www.francethisway.com/places/a/sauve-gard.php or you can visit any local tourist office which is in every village.
Why Sauve?: The natural beauty of this area is amazing. Sauve is situated between the Parc National des Cévennes (National Park of the Cevennes) and Le Parc naturel régional de Camargue (the Natural Regional Park of the Camargue). Within a radius or a 1 hour drive of Sauve there are ocean and beaches, mountains, rivers, beautiful nature and hiking and numerous historical villages plus the cities of Nimes (old Roman City) and Montpellier with great universities and a regional airport. Additionally, the international airport at Marseilles is within a 2 hour drive and the TGV (Fast speed train) connects between Nimes and Montpellier for about a 3.5 hour easy train ride to Paris. If you are traveling through France and want a week in the French countryside, this is a perfect place to embrace the French Joie de Vivre.
Occitanie Region: The Occitanie region has always been famous for the focus on delicious food, fabulous wines, many traditional festivals throughout the summer, wine tasting, art, music and culture, lavender distelleries, driving beautiful country roads through the vineyards, lavender and sunflower fields, picnicking in the country side next to ancient olive trees in beautiful nature or tanning on a beach or skiing in the winter.
Hiking and Biking:
Mers des Rochers: Above the village of Sauve is the famous 2 km hike over the Mer des Rochers (Sea of Rocks). This site has magical energy and a history of Sauvians being saved from invaders. Close to the sea of rocks is the vestiges of a “secret garden” on the hill, where foods were grown for royalty and to survive when under attach by invaders.
The trail is on rocks, so be sure to bring and wear good sturdy shoes, bring walking sticks if desired, carry water and bring your camera or phone camera. Take time to enjoy this magical place as the village of Sauve sits on massive rocks formations and for centuries there has been a belief that the natural stone holds powerful, restorative healing and transformative energies.
Trails nearby: Just about on every country road in the area you will find hiking signs through the fields and valleys. Hiking maps are available at the Sauve tourist office and a book of hikes in the area is available in the cottage for your use. Right at the bottom of the old Sauve village is a 45 minute walk along an old road by the river to an old Mill House. This is an easy stroll during all seasons with views of the numerous small gardens, vineyards and hills.
The Cevennes Mountains and National Park: Sauve is situated at the base of the Cevennes mountains with some of the most unspoiled natural rugged beauty in France. The Cévennes National Park covers 90,000 hectares. It is a low mountain range with Mont Lozère (1700 m) and Mont Aigoual (1565 m) as its highest peaks. The landscape is rough and savage. Saint-Hippolyte-du-Fort is located at the foot of this area. From the village you have a view of the beginning hills of the Cevennes. The Cevennes area is an ideal walking, hiking, biking, mountain climbing and canoeing. See information above on driving to Anduze (Potters town) and other sites to visit.
Stevenson hiking trial: In 1878 the Scottish author, Robert Louis Stevenson, traveled through the Cevennes area. He made the trip on foot and in the company of Modestine, his famous donkey. You can still read this enthusiastic travelogue in his fascinating book “Travels with a Donkey in the Cevennes”. One thing we can still learn today from Stevenson is: to explore this beautiful region, it is best to put on your hiking boots or good tennis shoes and take a hike in every season as each season is so unique and charming. Chriscrossing the landscape there are several grand randonnees (hikes) so that you have quite a few combination options. In 1978, the Grande Randonnee 70 was created, a 250-kilometer walking route that closely follows Stevenson’s travelogue. The tour is now a tourist attraction in the area for avid hikers, complete with donors, guides, accommodations and restaurants to replicate Stevenson’s travel route.
Climate: Since the area is close to the Mediterranean Sea, the climate is Mediterranean, meaning - beautiful springs and falls and with hot summers (August is the hottest month). Winters can be cold but there is sunshine over 300 days a year.
Train Stations and Airports: The nearest Train Station is Nimes Centre. There is also a new TGV station called Nimes Pont du Gard is further in the country with fast trains to Paris. Nimes, Montpellier, and Marseilles all have airports and flights across Europe.
Important Notes:
The cottage is non-smoking and non-vaping to best serve all of our visiting clients (some of whom have allergies). At this time we do not have Air Conditioning, but do have fans in each room for comfort as well as mosquito screens on all windows and doors.
A Certificate of full Covid vaccination for each person is required upon reservation.
No loud noises or music are permitted to maintain harmonious relationships with our neighbors.
The cottage is on a septic tank therefore no chemicals, oils, fats or other items (for example, feminine products) can be flushed down the toilet.
All debris in the kitchen sink, where there is a filter, must be removed and placed into the garbage. Garbage must be sorted and once full, garbage bags placed in designated area.
No pets are allowed.
Availability:
The cottage is available for rent for 3 day minimum Sept-May and 7 day minimum June-August. Longer stays ca be arranged with discounts provided
Please inquire early as to availability as we have repeat clients and are typically booked about a year in advance during high season.
For any information or questions please email us at ssaxeroux@gmail.com
If you are a bigger group looking to rent at the same time (for example 2 or 3 families), we can connect you with our neighbors with a bed-and breakfast or cottage or with other local Sauve accommodations.
2024-2025 Prices:
High Season
(includes Summer months, over Christmas/New Years and during Easter Break)
2024-2025 By the Week minimum:
June 1- Aug 30: 1,250 Euro per week, additional days are available if you are staying less than one additional rate at 178 per day.
10% Monthly discounts available
Low Season
Sept 1- June 1 950 Week or 135 per day for a minum of 3 night
135 Euro a night 3 nights minimum
10% Discounts available for Monthly Stays
Deposit and Cleaning Fee
50% Deposits are required for reservations and deposit at time of booking.
A cleaning fee of 100 Euro will be charged.
The cottage will be expected to be left at the same state it was found upon arrival .
What’s Included:
To ensure you have a great stay, we will recommend,
Lunch and Dinner Reservations for you. Restaurants are often full in the high season and reservations need to be made 1-2 weeks ahead. We will provide a list of low, medium, and high price restaurants for you to choose from.
Host a welcoming Apero (drink) at about (17:00 or 5pm) will be offered after you have settled in with an orientation to the cottage, parking, pool, and things to do in the area.
Additional Fee-Based Services:
Itinerary planning for your stay. We will plan an itinerary, make reservations and provide maps on where to go and when based on your preferences and desires. Itinerary planning Fee is 100 euro.
Painting en Plein Aire. Private 3 hour painting classes take place in different locations nearby with Jean P. Roux. All materials are provided. Fee: 100 euro per 3 hour session.
Life/ Next Stage Coaching: 90 minute sessions are available for Life/Career Coaching with Suzanne Saxe-Roux Ed.D and Professional Certified Coach and Jean P. Roux, Ph.D., MFT. Fee: 100 Euro per hour or for couples 150 with both Suzanne and Jean.
French Lessons: If you desire more than a 30 minute getting started French lesson, let us know and Jean Roux will be happy to customize a lesson to your needs. Fee: 40 Euro/hour
Cancellations:
Reservations can be cancelled and will be refunded in full up to 60 calendar days in advance of start of booking date.
If cancelled between 30-59 days the 50% deposit will not be refunded.
Full Payment is due 30 days prior to start of booking date.
Important: Please consider buying trip insurance if there is any possibility that you may need to cancel your trip for work or any other reasons.
Payments:
Payments can be made via Zelle.
Contact during your Stay:
You can text or SMS during the day for any question or needs at (0)6 31 82 69 40 or (0)7 86 27 81 52. We will respond as soon as possible.
Map:
The Map of the Area is shown below as well as photos
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO RESERVE PLEASE SEND US A MESSAGE BELOW,
MERCI BEAUCOUP
SUZANNE AND JEAN
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do we need a car and is there parking? Yes, you definitely need a car. Sauve is in the countryside and you will need a car which you can rent from any train station or airport. If you are going to be driving throughout France from 3 weeks to 6 months, check out leasing a car in France, (i.e. AutoEurope) where you can lease a new car with insurance for less money than a car rental. The cottage has a special entrance and parking space dedicated to you.
Do I need to plan on day trips by car? If you choose to rest, rejuvenate, perhaps write a book or paint, staying at the cottage is what you need. However, there are many amazing places to visit in the area within a one-hour drive. Plan on driving to see the sites for a half or full day trip to explore this wonderful area.
Length of Stay: We rent the cottage for 1 week minimum and from Saturday through Saturday. Most guests enjoy staying the week to have time for both visiting the sites, exploring the nature, eating at great restaurants, visiting the marches, and for relaxation. Longer stays are available if arranged and based upon availability. Additional customized experiences (mentioned above) can be provided by Suzanne and Jean organized for a fee to meet your specific needs.
Are we a bed-and-breakfast? : No, we rent out the cottage and no food is served beyond the welcome Apero. You are independent to explore and to ensure a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday or vacation.
Do I need to speak French? A bit of French will always make your stay more comfortable, but locals are used to tourists from around the world and are very kind. If you want to learn a bit more of everyday needed French, we provide a 30 minute lesson upon arrival if desired. Additional french lessons can be reserved as well by Jean Roux.
Markets in the area: There are markets available different days and in different villages. Quissac (6 km away has a nice size market on Wednesday) and St. Hippolyte on Friday. The larger ones are in Uzes and Sommieres on Saturdays. Special Brocantes and Vide Grenier markets are posted on signage throughout the area. The tourist office also provides the latest information on what is available and when.
Does the kitchen have everything we need to cook at home? Yes, the kitchen is fully stocked with appliances (gas stove) and equipment. We provide basic staples but depending on your needs, you may have to buy special items. Everything you want is available at the fresh outdoor markets, “supermarches” nearby, boucherie, and fish market at SuperU St. Hippolyte du Fort. Of course, you can buy all fresh food at local outdoor markets throughout the area.
Is the WIFI good? The Wifi is very good with two extenders in the cottage and pool area. In 2022 we hope to get Fiber as well and that will speed up reception even more.
Are there insects/mosquitos? Yes. The cottage has mosquito screens in each window and door so you can open them and get fresh air. However, it is a great idea to bring along or buy locally some insect repellant as you may need it depending on the season and if the mosquitos like you.
Is there air conditioning? The cottage does not have air conditioning. However, the windows can be opened as they all have screens to ensure air and a breeze. The cottage is equipped with fans in each room. Typically, heat is only a potential issue during the month of August when there might be heat waves.
Is the pool always open?: No, the salt-water pool is not heated and only open for swimming during the later spring and summer months when the water is sufficiently warm for swimming.
Phots of our Cottage and Surrounding Area
Country Cottage
Country Cottage (living room on right, Bedroom on left)
The River below the Old Village
The Medieval Village of Sauve
Photos of Cottage
Rejuvenate in Suave and Surrounding Area
Occitanie, France
Historically, the area known as "Languedoc" is part of the Occitanie region in Southern France. The name itself is a reference to the language(s) (Les langues d'Oc spoken in this part of France for centuries. Occitanie is the second-largest region in continental France with a Mediterranean coastline on the southeast and is neighboured by Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur on the east, and Occitanie borders the countries of Andorra and Spain on the south.
The main city nearby is Montpellier, a thriving modern city in the Hérault area, with a historic city centre. Other major cities in the region are Nimes, Narbonne, Sete and Perpignan. Toulouse is the capital city of the Occitan region.
Today, the coastline is characterised by long sandy beaches, often with plenty of space, and a modern tourist infrastructure, with twentieth-century resorts such as at Cap d'Agde, Palavas, or Narbonne Plage. The brash developments of the sixties have had time to mature, parts of the coastline have been recovered for more environmentally sensitive tourism development; and among the quite densely built-up resort areas, there are attractive bits of coastline and hinterland. However, as a general rule, the areas within 20 km of the coast have been extensively developed for tourism during the last forty years.
Text & photos Copyright © About-France.com 2008 - 2020
except for Pont du Gard - by W Staudt, licence creative commons
Visiting the South of France
Information on Towns and Villages to Visit within One Hour Drive (Note if most cases you will drive on country roads with amazing scenery):
Montpellier: In the University city of Montpellier, known as “the Paris of the South” is the beautiful Arc de Triomphe, the exquisite Musee Fabre, two opera houses, and one of the largest squares in Europe. Exploring the city is a joy and can easily and happily encompass the entire scope of your stay. The city has a great music scene and there is always something happening in this very vibrant, active university town. Montpellier is also 15 minutes from the closest beach where you can shop in the fishing village of Palavas Les Flots. you can stroll through the fishing village, take a boat tour, rent a bike or just walk on the promenade. Enjoy a lunch of Moules et Frites. If you have time, at the end of Palavos is the Cathedral of Maguelone and worth a visit. If it is warm, bring your swimsuit and dip into the silky Mediterranean water. Montpellier and the beaches are approximately an hour drive from the Cottage in Sauve through the beautiful countryside.
Nimes: Nimes is a 30 minute drive from Sauve is also a fashionable town with a pedestrian shopping area and the Colisseum, a Roman Art Museum and a beautiful park. Nimes is famous for its Colisseum which often hosts amazing concerts and events.
Uzes: Head out to Uzes for the Saturday Morning market that is the best in the region. Uzes is a special historical village with a pedestrian center shaped like a bicycle wheel with spokes and cobblestone streets. Shop for the best straw baskets in the region, tablecloths, olive oil with truffles, provence herbes, potterie, provencal soaps, cute season clothes, fabrics, fresh vegetables and fruits, assorted cheeses, fish, and more.
Visit the chateau du Uzes and stay for lunch in one of their outdoor cafes. This day we recommend getting up early and leaving by 8:00 H or 9 at the latest and get there before 10:00 (about a one hour nice drive). In the afternoon visit the famous Pont du Gard world heritage site or visit the village of St. Quentin La Poterie for tour of all the Potters. Make sure you stop at the Galtie Pottery next to the Wine Cooperative and the Millicent Poterie in the center of the village. Return home to cook a great meal with all the fresh produce and rotisserie chicken you purchased.
Anduze: About a 25 minute drive into the base of the Cevennes mountains you will find the famous town known for its Anduze pottery. At different times of the year there are pottery fairs which draw from potters in the surrounding area. At the old train station, you can take the steam train to St. Jean du Gard for the day and have lunch and return. The route takes you through amazing scenery and geography.
Ganges: not to far away, the small village of Ganges has a market on Fidays and nearby, you can rent canoes on the river. Have lunch at the small village of LaRoque 5 minutes away and on the river.
Wine Tasting: Drive towards Pic St. Lou for excellent wine tasting and a different view of the countryside. Visit the different wineries along the way (as well as a few tasting rooms in these villages).
Sommieres: A nearby village, about 20 minutes away has a lively Saturday marche and Sunday Brocante each week. A variety of restaurants, an old castle on the hill, and a beautiful river makes it a great day. The best Crepe restaurant you can find anywhere is in Sommieres and has a terrace overlooking the river. Reservations are key.
Aigue Morte: A Medieval walled village situated among the salt marshes and on the Canal du Midi. This is a wonderful place to stroll around, do some shopping, have lunch and to take the petite train around the village to see the walled city from different vantage points.
Avignon: Feel free to take the train from Nimes to Avignon for the day or drive a bit further about 1.5 hours as it is not a direct route on the freeway. Walk around the old city, shop, visit the famous Chateau des Papes and visit the Rhone River. Take the Petit Train around Avignon and you can get off and on at different historique sites. Return late in the day and walk up from the Montpelier train station (Gare) to the historique district and check out another of their wonderful restaurants.
Arles/ St. Remy de Provence: Famous for Van Gough and the famous Coliseum and is worth a visit. The new famous, Cultural building, La Luma, is also worth seeing and check out what exhibits to visit. You can easily spend a full day in this area.
A day Spa/Massage/ Hot Tub: In Sauve, we have a wonderful outdoor spa that provides massages as well as has a large pool and hot tub.
Options: Depending on what you want to do you suggestions will be provided when you rent our cottage for the week.