The views from mas Carol are simply breathtaking - not a house in site in all directions, just endless forest up to the dramatic ridge of the Spanish border. The woods are quiet and peaceful, and there are marvellous walks from the front door - follow tree forest road up into the mountains till you reach a stream, where after a steep climb on an overgrown local trail you can join the grand randonée and have incredible views down towards Céret. The town is very picturesque, with a museum of extremely impressive e quality, and all the necessities. But in the Mas you can enjoy toys solitude.
The building is old and impressive, and generally wel-kept, though the kitchen is a little shabby (old, filthy sponges, temperamental cooker, few utensils, not very good quality equipment). It is nicely furnished. The upstairs bathroom (shared) has a lovely big bath. The pool is wonderful, clean, refreshing, and partly shaded by an apple tree. There is a handy gas grill for dinners on the terrace.
M and Mme Armangué were very kind, and it’s clear that they take pride in what was their family home. The English HomeAway listing lacks some crucial information however, and guests would benefit from its being updated. Namely:
- check in is between 15:00 and 19:00 (a narrow window, for those flying from the UK particularly)
- check out is at 11:00
- an additional charge of €60 for housecleaning is applied
- this must be paid in cash
- towels, including hand towels, are not provided
If we had had this information it would have prevented some misunderstandings, though our hosts were very accommodating and we would be happy to stay again.