Mas La Donzelenche, Vialas Holiday Rentals

Description for B&B:

Ever since the 14th century, 'Las Donzelesches' has been a landmark in the fascinating scenery of the Cevennes, characterized by terraces, walls, chestnut trees and crystal clear sparkling waters.



This magnificent fortified 'mas' consists of several buildings erected in the typical style of the region with slate and granite. With its archways, alleys, cellars and courtyards it is a small world in itself, surrounded by terraces with fruit and chestnut trees, sheltered fields and meadows with sheep and goats. After centuries of bristling life, alternating with periods of silence and idleness, La Donzelenche, age-old but not worn-out, has now been restored to its old glory.

It is the ideal spot for a wonderful holiday, a place to find peace of mind and inspiration.

Part of the 'mas' is permanently inhabited. The guest's quarters comprise four authentic Cevenol 'gîtes', accomodating two, four, or six visitors respectively. Each gîte has its own character, is spacious, comfortable and stylishly decorated. There is a launderette where you can wash, dry and iron your clothes, and the Pigeonnerie contains a small shop that sells home-made produce and locally manufactured articles, some straight from the workshop of the mas.

Outside, the courtyards and terraced gardens provide romantic corners to enjoy the sun or lounge in the shade, which you can do in peace and privacy, or you can have a drink and a chat with other guests at the central meeting place, or play a game of table tennis at the 'Grange'. This is also the venue for group activities and occasionally serves as a cinema.

Both before and after the high season the mas frequently is the centre of activities like 'portes ouvertes', exhibitions, courses, workshops, seminars and soirees, and in the ancient kitchen at the heart of the main building, tasty 'tables d'hôte' are served up two or three times a week.