Saturday, May 18, 2013

French "Gariottes".

While driving around the countryside of the Lot Valley in France, we have viewed several of these stone buildings. 

I was not sure what they were at first, because there are a lot of stone piles along the roadsides and in the fields.

Monsieur Honey believed them to be for animal shelter and/ or the shepherds.

We queried our friends, Madame M and Msr. Guy who told us that they are called ..."gariottes " and were used for shelter not for animals but for the workers.

"Gariotte" is defined as a dry stone cabin/hut used by winegrowers and shepherds to provide them protection from bad weather.

Today, if I had one of these on my land ...I think I would ask Monsieur Honey to restore it and make it into a fort for the grandsons or a playhouse for the granddaughters.





Friday, May 17, 2013

Friday's Photos

Market day in Prayssac, aperitifs in the sunshine, steak frites lunch at the Venus Restaurant with our "French Connection" friends, followed by a walking tour of Castlefranc in the village and along the riverside.























Domaine Gaury


The owners, Yves and Kathleen Mestdagh- Van Waeleghem of Domaine Gaury are ready to welcome you to their estate located in the rural area of the Lot Valley, near Dégagnac 46340.

Situated in a very peaceful and tranquil area, but close enough to many tourist attractions.

The gîtes/ cottages all have their own outside terrace and barbecue.

The property has a playground to keep the little ones occupied, a heated swimming pool, hot tub, plenty of space and lounging chaises for sunbathing on the pool decks and terraces surrounding the pool.

The property is beautifully landscaped.

I was not able to take photos of the interiors of the gîtes as they are all presently occupied. 

For detailed information on the gîtes, location, prices and photos of the interiors of the cottages...please visit the website or their Facebook page...

www.domainegaury.com

At the present time, many projects are underway getting ready for the busy summer season ...with the help of some volunteers from Canada, USA, and Russia ...yesterday, a new stone wall garden was being constructed that will be planted with lavender, other projects in the works was gardening, painting, and oiling of the outdoor teak furniture.
The new deck attached to the swimming pool had just been completed.

This enchanting property looks ideal for a holiday stay in the Lot Valley.

Thank you for taking the time to give us a tour.

Ivy climbing the stone walls of Gaury, as you enter the property.

A view of Domaine Gaury through the trees.

Welcome ....Bienvenue à Domaine Gaury!

The wisteria covered stone walls and a surprise visitor.

A  French tree... Judas tree...or what we know as an Eastern Redbud.


The barn gîte...


The playground and elephant rocking horse.

The old bread oven which I understand is used to cook pizzas for the guests.

One of the beautiful blue shutters kissed by the wisteria.

The newly constructed pool deck overlooking the countryside...the pool and hot tub with the main house in the background.


Iris' lining the lane as you arrive at Domaine Gaury.


Domaine Gaury
Dégagnac, France
46340 

Télé:  33 565 322018

Email info@domainegaury.com
www.domainegaury.com
 
Today, we were invited for a return visit to Domaine Gaury to view the interior of some of the gîtes .
Kathleen and Yves welcomed us and gave us another tour...this place would be ideal for individuals, couples, or large groups.

"Gaury" is family friendly and is suitable for families with children of all ages. 



A warm welcome...flowers and a bottle of wine upon arrival!

Ah yes.... Relaxing in the hot tub, perfect end to the day!