La Potentille

Lieuran-Cabrières, located in the Hérault hinterland, has 336 residents, and although it doesn’t have a single store, it does have a mobile market stall, a traveling butcher, a mussel vendor, and a pizza truck. In the heart of this small village, Aurélie and Jean have converted a former sheep barn into a guesthouse and named it La Potentille after the cinquefoil that grows in their garden among the mimosas and climbing roses. The accommodation features two rooms: One measuring 24 square meters, and the other a 48-square-meter suite with its own living room. The furnishings come from the region’s antiques and flea markets and include vintage furniture, a colorful assortment of tableware, old silver cutlery, antique books, and fresh flowers. Exposed beams and rustic details keep the building’s history alive. You’ll feel completely in the moment by the saltwater pool in the garden, where you can cool off on hot days with a view of the hills and the Peïrigous pine forest. On the hour, the gentle sound of the five-bell carillon drifts over from the church tower. Otherwise, it’s only birdsong that you’ll hear. In the morning, the scent of freshly baked goods fills the old barn. Aurélie bakes everything herself—bread, pastries, and cakes—which she offers with jams, yogurt, and cheese from the region. Meals are served in the dining room in front of a large landscape painting, and, if you look closely, you’ll even spot flowers from the garden in the cake.

WHAT WE LIKE MOST:

• As soon as you step through the gate of La Potentille, you’ll fall under the spell of this unique place. It radiates peace and serenity; the atmosphere is wonderfully relaxed.
• How respectfully the building has been restored: Old wooden beams are exposed, and original doors have only been roughly sanded down. This has preserved much of the old character, enhanced by modern comforts.
• The charm exuded by the carefully selected vintage finds and furniture
• The decor featuring fresh flowers and dried twigs (you’ll even spot the occasional flower from the garden in the homemade cakes and breads.)
• The mini antique shop in an outbuilding, where you’re sure to find a unique keepsake for your home
• The varied breakfast served every morning—prepared with love and featuring products from the surrounding villages
• Snagging a deck chair and listening to the birds chirping and the fountain splashing in the lush, Mediterranean garden
• You might just encounter goats, peacocks, and deer while taking a walk around the village.
• The house is situated on the edge of this picture-perfect village, surrounded by rolling hills and pine forests—perfect for recharging your batteries.
• Those who want to explore the region can get some local tips from the charming hosts—Aurélie has lived here for over 10 years and knows the best spots.
• Various Mediterranean beaches are about a 30-minute drive away. 

GOOD TO KNOW:

• The former barn houses two guest rooms, each accommodating two people. The smaller room is 24 square meters big and features a bathroom with a shower. The 48-square-meter suite includes a living room and a bathroom. 
• Accommodations at La Potentille are reserved for adult guests.
• Breakfast is included in the price and is served in the ground-floor dining room with a view of the garden.
• The Lac du Salagou reservoir, with its spectacular red rocky hills, and the bizarre rock formations of the Cirque de Mourèze are just a short drive away. To soak up a touch of history and browse the many antique dealers and flea markets, a detour to the villages of Pézenas and Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is highly recommended.
• Those looking for some exercise can enjoy the views of unspoiled landscapes on a hike or bike ride.
• For a city trip, Montpellier—just under 50 kilometers away—is well worth a visit: Enjoy its medieval old town, contemporary art at the MO.CO, markets, cafés, and a lively student scene.
• Wine lovers will be in their element here, as the accommodation is located in the heart of a major wine region—wine tastings at one of the surrounding estates are well worth it.
• The nearest airports are Béziers–Cap d’Agde (around 46 kilometers away) and Montpellier (about 50 kilometers away).