Les Mas Vacquières

This was the best and most memorable B&B I have stayed in, partly due to the charm of the secluded farmstead, but mostly to the charming Dutch couple. We were the only guests in November and enjoyed a fabulous gourmet French meal with the couple in their gorgeous kitchen. The room was light and cheerful with a little balcony. I only wish it had been warm enough to swim in the pool.

Careful research led me to the Mas Vacquieres for the celebration of a special occasion. I knew exactly what I wanted and my High Expectations were exceeded. I first read about MV in Karen Brown’s France B&B. I then reviewed various Web sites. I reviewed many other properties and felt this one exactly met my wishes. On our arrival we learned Mas Vac had just been voted the “Most Romantic B & B” in France by readers of Karen Brown’s B &Bs France. After our stay, we concur wholeheartedly with that vote. I sought simple, unpretentious, elegant accommodation with good beds, shower, plumbing and heating for a February visit, in a rural / village setting, as a touring base close to Nimes, Montpellier, Uzes, Pont du Gard and the Ardeche Gorges. In addition, a Celebratory Dinner at the B & B. I had high expectations based on multiple other reports, and each of the above was exceeded. This is the quintessential family run B & B. Miriam and Thomas are superb hosts, incredibly efficient in attending to one’s every need, but not in the least obtrusive. They serve dinner by arrangement. The 3 course gourmet meals with aperitif and wines on the 2 nights of our stay, were the best meals we had during 2 weeks in Southern France. Ironically, best value for money too. The hosts are excellent company, speak fluent English, Dutch, German and French and the evenings felt as though we were being entertained by old friends. They know the area well, gave us excellent travel suggestions and tuned in well to our interests. The 5 rooms and very spacious living room for the use of guests are across the lane and up 16 steps from the Van Dijke’s home. Each room is furnished and decorated differently, very tastefully and appropriately for the area, with modern comforts. The thick stone walls and excellent windows efficiently keep out external noise. Each room has individually adjustable heating units, necessary in the winter. We were there during a very cold spell and heating was great. ( Many B & Bs in the area are closed during winter months , and lack of heating is a significant reason) . Rooms as with all facets of the property are immaculately clean and well maintained. Nothing appeared jaded or worn. The Mas Vac can be reached relatively inexpensively by taxi from Ales, 14 km away, for a visit to indulge the quiet solitude and beauty and to relax. ( This will be my next trip, for a longer stay.) Taxi can be arranged by the Van Dijkes. Car necessary if one wishes to use the MV as a base for touring, There are numerous scenic areas, Roman structures and Medieval villages , generally unspoiled and within close reach. Easy day and half day trips. Large, easy car parking on the edge of the essentially pedestrian access hamlet, which is easy to find if one follows the excellent detailed directions given by the Van Dijkes and sign posts to the Mas V on the small country road (D 339). The Michelin Map 339 of the Gard and Herault, makes it even easier, though could be difficult without those 2 resources. The only sign of any tourism / commercialism one sees in the hamlet( hameau ) ( or for miles around) are several , discrete plaques attesting to awards (Michelin etc), next to the front door of the MV. ( So one would know which door in the hameau to knock on!) Closest Restaurant is 800 meters up the well surfaced , very quiet rural road, easily walkable but take a small flashlight after dark. We really enjoyed the easy to follow circular trail, Thomas has marked out ,along the surrounding country roads, through woods and past farms, with great views for us of the snow on the Cevennes. His estimated duration of 2.5 hours, was accurate for us. I look forward to our next longer visit, probably by train to Ales and taxi to Mas Vac, which would give us more time to relax and enjoy the serenity.