Charmant Gite en SW France - Jardin privé, près de la ville et de belles promenades

The gite was perfect for us - fully equipped kitchen, excellent broadband and in excellent order throughout. It is ideally situated for parking and access to shops in Mazamet. It made a great centre for exploring the area and there are some lovely walks nearby. Felicity was a lovely host, giving good advice on what to see and where to eat.

Having enjoyed a brilliant fortnight last Summer we promised ourselves that we would return and we weren't disappointed.

Felicity and Martin welcomed us in the wonderful way with a lovely spread of fresh, local produce, home made jam and immaculately presented accommodation.

We took the opportunity to return to previously enjoyed locations such as the peaceful mountain lake at Pradelles and family orientated, yet relaxing lake at Les Montagnes; medieval Hautpoul ( worth the climb for the views ) and river-boating at Castres. Charming Mazamet has changed little and we revisited the lovely tea room 'Aux Saveurs del'Autan' and newly opened Mets & Plaisirs restaurant for quality food and wine at very reasonable price. Along with the regular market days, a first for us was The 'Producteurs' market on a Monday evening. Many local food and wine producers bring their wares to the Square and you're invited to buy and enjoy your purchases including freshly cooked trout and baked camembert on the previously set out tables and chairs. It's a wonderful atmosphere!

There's always something of interest going on in and around the town - the Fireworks on the lake celebrating Bastille Day; the town as a Stage point on the Region's three day Car Rally and this year the thrill of the Tour De France passing through and onwards and upwards to the Pic de Nore on their way to Carcassonne.

So whether it's all of the above, cycling on the disused railway path, mountain walking among the forests or just enjoying some rest and relaxation, the Gite Wisteria is the perfect place to stay.

We were made to feel at home as soon as we arrived for a month in August. Just the right walking distance to center for a little exercise while enjoying the outdoor markets, boulangeries, fromageries and cafes in the mornings. Very peaceful in the beautiful gardens with a view of the Montagne Noire in background. The cosy kitchen was perfect for eating in times and Felicity was more than generous both in sharing the bounty from her garden with luscious tomatoes and in sharing good tips on restaurants in the area. We took advantage of the AugustGuitar Festival in the little villages in the Montagne Noire as well as in the Cafe Plum in Lautrec nearby which Felicity again informed us about. Due to the warm evenings, the fan in the main bedroom should be utilized! We will definitely recommend this gite to our friends. My husband, who is a swimmer, learned of a lake 12 minutes from the gite up the mountain where he could swim and we could hike. All in all, a memorable experience!

We stayed two weeks in Mazamet and explored the mountain area nearby as well as a number of nature and historical places around. The gite and the garden were just everything one wishes of a holiday home. Amenities of Mazamet such as bakery, butcherie etc. were just around the corner. Our hostess was very helpfull and provided us valuable information of the places worth visiting in the area. We fully agree with all the positive comments posted by the previous guests and highly recommend the Villa Wisteria for all those who look forward to a combination of an active holiday and a relaxing stay in a beautiful environment.

After two weeks of hillside rambling, rest and relaxation we fell in love with this Gite and this area of France. Felicity and Martin made us so welcome and provided lots of helpful advice regarding scenic walks and local events. The three-times weekly market is a delight for self- caterers with a couple of nearby supermarkets for everything else. A boulangerie is just five minutes walk away for your freshly baked morning croissants!

The cottage is very well appointed and whether taking breakfast or returning from a day out, has a lovely private garden to relax in.

The Tourist Information Office is very helpful for printed walking routes in English. Recommended excursions are to Carcassonne ( Old City ); Castres ( Goya Museum ); Revel ( Market ); Labrugiere and Soreze Medieval towns. There are plenty of hilly (some challenging! ) walks e.g up to Hautpoul but worth the effort for the fantastic views and beautiful landscapes. Also recommended are the nearby Lac de la Montagne Noir and the Lake at La Pradelles. For cyclists there is an easy ride along the Voie Verte, a flat disused railway track from Mazamet with charming villages along the way.

Felicity and Martin provided lots of maps and information and with their local knowledge there will be no doubt visitors will see the best of everything the area has to offer, while enjoying being 'at home' in the cottage. We'll be back!