Picturesque gite with terraces in idyllic mountain village with views
L'Ecurie is a lovingly restored barn that has been converted with all mod-cons, and yet still retains the simple charm of a mountain stone house. There are small steps leading through the gate up to the two pretty sun terraces. The front door leads into the terrace lobby. . Bedroom one is a double with bathroom with bath and shower en suite. . Bedroom two is also a double with a larger bathroom with bath and shower en suite. . The kitchen/living room has stove, fridge/freezer, gas cooker and microwave. There is a CD player and DVD. . The stable door from lobby leads onto . Split level terrace, one with wood decking, barbecue and table and chairs, umbrella; the lower terrace is paved in slate and ideal for sunbeds. Many unusual features have been developed using the original manger rails and a rock feature in bedroom one. . The cave (basement) has a washing machine and room for storing bikes . Parking is available immediately outside the property.
Vira is less than an hour's drive from Perpignan: This charming and totally self contained gite is part of 'La Grange', a lovingly converted stone sheep bar in the foothills of the Pyrenees. It is situated in the Pyrenean village of Vira, one of the most picturesque villages in the area and offers lovely views over the surrounding valleys and forests. Forty miles west of Perpignan, Vira is totally unspoilt and is on the edge of the Foret de Boucheville. The small village has a plan d'eau and barbecue area, a delightful church and a marie, where the local mayor and staff are happy to provide all the information visitors require about the many delights of the area.
La Grange hugs the side of the mountain and is situated on the edge of the village. Unspoilt tracks through the adjoining forest and hills are on the doorstep.
The local area: Vira is an ideal location for country lovers looking for activities such as walking, riding, cycling on the numerous well-marked trails. It is also perfect for those who just want to relax in the sun and enjoy the wonderful wildlife. All around is unspoiled landscape, vineyards, hills, forests, valleys, mountains, rivers, gorges and waterfalls. In early spring and summer the almond and cherry blossom, wild flowers, herbs, butterflies and bird life are a never-to-be-forgotten experience.
The area enjoys some of the driest and warmest weather in France with blue skies most of the year round. Summer temperatures of around 30 degrees are common with the cool mountain breeze at night being a welcome benefit.
The neighbouring village of Fosse has a free open air pool which is open during the months of July and August.
The Mediterranean sea and long sandy beaches are only 40 miles away and the sea temperatures are warm enough to swim well into October.
Nearby Attractions: The whole region remains very unspoilt, yet offers a wealth of things to do and see. There are stunning Cathar castles to explore, notably Peyreperteuse, Queribus and Puilrens. At Tautavel is a fascinating museum dedicated to pre-historic man and you can view the ongoing archaeological dig on giant screens. The area is famous for some fine examples of Roman architecture such as the aqueduct at Ansignan, the abbey at Serrabonne and the thermal baths at Rennes le Bains where you can bathe all year round. Perpignan the very Catalan capital of the region, is an hour's drive and the beautiful medieval walled city of Carcassonne 1 hour and 20 minutes. Just south of Perpignan is the quaint historic town of Ceret, home to many impressionist artists who are exhibited in the museum of modern art. Also for art lovers is the beautiful fishing village of Collioure, which inspired the paintings of Matisse, or the Dali museum at Figueres just across the Spanish border.
Add dates for prices
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: No parties allowed or extra guests to stay
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
About the area
Vira
Located in Vira, this apartment is in a rural area. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lac de Caramany and Galamus Gorges, while Les Journees de la Ceramique de Belesta and Château Musée de Belesta are cultural highlights. Oxygen Aventure and Rodeoraft are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with waterskiing and rafting nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and mountain biking.
Perpignan (PGF-Perpignan - Rivesaltes Intl.) - 65 min drive
Restaurants
Auberge de l'Aqueduc - 15 min drive
L'Oustal de Montfort - 29 min drive
La Guarrigue - Relais Des Corbières - 20 min drive
Le Petit Bistrot - 19 min drive
Bar Snack Rivière - 12 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Picturesque gite with terraces in idyllic mountain village with views pet-friendly?
Yes, pets are allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at Picturesque gite with terraces in idyllic mountain village with views?
As of 12 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Picturesque gite with terraces in idyllic mountain village with views on 25 December 2025 start from NZ$158, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Picturesque gite with terraces in idyllic mountain village with views?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Picturesque gite with terraces in idyllic mountain village with views?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Picturesque gite with terraces in idyllic mountain village with views?
Checkout is at 10:30 AM.
Where is Picturesque gite with terraces in idyllic mountain village with views located?
Situated in a rural location, this apartment building is 3.9 mi (6.3 km) from Le Soula and within 12 miles (20 km) of Lac de Caramany and Oxygen Aventure. Château de Puilaurens and Galamus Gorges are also within 16 miles (25 km).
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Excellent property. The house name would be useful on the front gate.
The Gite was very clean and comfortable and we would certainly book it again if we were in the area.
Martin E.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 31 March 2020
Dear Martin
Thank you for your comments. We are delighted that you enjoyed your stay and we will be happy to welcome you back again if you return to this area.
Suzanne
A great appartement built into the hillside in a welcoming hamlet. You could not find a more peaceful location in the high forest. It is a bit of a trip to the nearest supermarket, but the small shop in Vira is great if you forget something and the open Tuesday apéritif’s a great way to meet the locals. We thoroughly enjoyed our time here.
We had a wonderful week in Vira partly thanks to the picturesque house of Suzanne. The beautiful view, the silence and the privacy in the garden give you a real holiday feeling. This part of the Pyrenees is worth a visit. When you sit on your terrace at the end of the day with a glass of wine and a snack from the barbecue, it feels like living as God in France. We have become fans!
S.C. H.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 12 August 2023
Dear Sebastian,
Thank you for your lovely comments about our gite and the area.
We would welcome you back again.
Cordialement
Suzanne
Le logement est charmant, très bien équipé. Le village de Vira est éloigné de tout mais calme et apaisant. La vue, depuis l'appartement est bien jolie.
Gîte rustique mais cosy au grand calme bien équipé
Séjour agréable dans un gîte au grand clame. Ambiance plutôt rustique (décoration, pas de lave vaisselle) mais très cosy et bien équipé dans un lieu où on dort bien tant grâce à la bonne literie qu’au calme ou qu’à la fraîcheur des nuits liée a l’altitude des lieux.
Seul bémol mais qui ne nous a pas dérangé au final : une chambre sans fenêtre et l’autre qui donne directement sur le salon.
Merci aux propriétaires de partager leur logement
Vira est éloigné de tout mais c est exactement ce que nous cherchions
Nous avons rencontré des personnes accueillantes et chaleureuses dans le village
La forêt est dense mais paisible
Et la mer se trouve à 1 heure de route
Magnifique séjour très reposant merci encore
Le Gîte de Vira est vraiment chaleureux et accueillant, une bouteille de vin nous était offert en plus. Merci Suzanne et Dee!
Chaque fois que nous avons eu besoin de précisions nous avons eu des réponses rapidement.
Nous avons pu faire de belles ballades et visites sur les chemins des pays cathares, région magnifique et autentique.
Nous recommandons ce gîte agréable et frais malgré la chaleur extérieure.
A.R.
Cher Serge, Je suis ravi que vous ayez apprecie votre sejour.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Eric M.
11 September 2018
Gîte à découvrir pour les gens qui aiment le calme et la nature à l'état pur
Gîte très agréable, propre, calme et bien décoré. Nous avons été enchantés de découvrir un rocher en forme de grotte dans notre chambre et l'éclairage qui va avec.
A l'extérieur, il y avait beaucoup de papillons. Les gens du village étaient très polis. Vira compte une fontaine pour les grosses soifs de l'été et des sentiers de randonnée à proximité dont un avec de magnifiques gorges.
Nous nous sentions en sécurité dans ce petit village de montagne.
Eric M.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 31 March 2020
Cher Eric
Je suis ravi que vous avez apprécié votre séjour à l'Ecurie et j'espère vous revoir bientôt.
Suzanne
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Franck R.
15 August 2017
Calme
Nous avons passé 10 jours dans un cadre magnifique.
Le gîte "l'écurie "est chaleureux et confortable.
De part sa localisation, différents sites touristiques (châteaux cathars,...)et activités touristiques (randonnées, cannoying,...)sont à proximité.
Point de départ idéal pour se ballader et découvrir cette très belle région.
Isabelle et Franck
Franck R.
Stayed 10 nights in Aug 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 31 March 2020
Nous sommes heureux que vous ayez passé vos vacances chez L'Ecurie
Archival
10/10 Excellent
leveque j.
8 September 2016
Un havre de paix dans un petit village pittoresque et magnifique
Le gite est très joli ainsi que le village.
C'est une magnifique région à découvrir pour les amateurs de grands espaces,de nature et des Cathares.
Il y a beaucoup de sites à visiter.
Très heureuse de ces vacances !
leveque j.
Stayed 11 nights in Aug 2016
Archival
8/10 Good
Philip D.
4 August 2016
Perfect escape
This charming, traditional house was just what we were looking for... you never quite know when you book! Situated in the peaceful and picturesque village of Vira with spectacular scenery all around, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. There’s plenty to do and see as it’s a great location for walking, cycling, driving off the beaten track, and generally exploring. Other highlights included breakfast on the terrace, trips to the beach, and local wine tasting! The property was very clean and surprisingly cool in the summer heat.
I would definitely recommend a rural holiday break here.
Philip D.
Response from VrboOwner on 31 March 2020
Dear Philip
I am so pleased that you enjoyed your stay at L'Ecurie. It means a lot to us that guests have a relaxing and comfortable experience. We hope to see you back in the future.
Suzanne