Ferme Sarthou, Cottage for 2 to 6 people

Nicely renovated old farm house, separated into two gîtes. We stayed in the smaller of the two for six people. Comfortable bedrooms and well equipped kitchen. Hosts Helene and Albert very friendly and helpful.

The house is located in paradise, quiet, calm, spacious, clean

We enjoyed a very pleasant week here. The owners live on site and were extremely hospitable - we enjoyed some delicious homegrown vegetables! It should also be said that they were not in any way intrusive and left us to enjoy ourselves. The house is full of character with a well-equipped kitchen. The living space comprises a large dining table which can easily seat 8, a 3-seater sofa and a day-bed. The weather was good when we stayed and we were out most days, but it would have been nice to have some additional comfortable seating space, as with 6 of us it was tricky. There is a TV with satellite, but we didn't use this. WiFi is available, but it is very slow (as you might expect in a rural location). There are two double rooms and two twin rooms. One double has an en-suite shower room and toilet. This room is light and has nice views. The second double has an adjoining shower room with twin sinks, but this isn't really an en-suite since it also has a door onto the main hallway and is the only other bathroom. The toilet is separate. This double room faces an internal courtyard and as such is a bit dark. The first twin room is light and airy with a nice view from the window. The second twin room adjoins the first and has no exterior window. So, whilst the property can sleep 8, it will very much depend on the make-up of the group as to whether this is appropriate for you or not. All the beds were comfortable and we got a good night's sleep. A little more storage would be helpful. The swimming pool is at the rear of the property and is shared, though we never saw anyone else using it. I personally found the chemicals a little too strong, but our boys made good use of it! A car is essential, but the accommodation is within 10 minutes (by car) of Oloron-Ste-Marie, which is a big town with supermarkets. Days out in the Pyrenees are within easy reach and the views are fantastic. The owners have an adorable and extremely well-trained dog, that visited us each day (but never came inside and didn't beg for food) - we grew quite attached! I always try to provide an honest and helpful review for other travellers. Remember, no property is perfect. This one has its drawbacks, but is of a very good standard and we enjoyed our time here. I think it is predominantly let to French and Spanish speakers, as there is no printed information in English. The owners speak enough English, and we didn't have any problem.

Everything is a short drive away in the beautiful countryside that is Bearn! Helene and Albert are two wonderful hosts with huge hearts! Go there and enjoy!