Le clos bohème, holiday cottage in Baron
FR - Julie and Quentin Vilenne's charming holiday cottage named Le clos bohème, is set below Bézut, one of the hamlets in the small commune of Baron, and invites you to enjoy a moment of idleness in the heart of the Gard region.
Overlooked by the Château de Font-Couverte (16th century), Le clos bohème is an old farmhouse with old-fashioned charm that has been carefully renovated by its owners, who chose to leave their equestrian club in Belgium to make their home in the south of France. Carefully chosen after more than 2 years of research, the place is also, and above all, a link with the memories of Julie's family holidays in the region as a child.
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Just over 13 kms from Uzès, Baron is dominated by the ruins of its castle on the hill of Arque.
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Today, Le clos bohème offers 3 independent bedrooms and 3 flats, all tastefully furnished in the spirit of Provence - exposed stonework, terracotta tiles, warm colours accompanied by designer or retro-style furniture, ceiling lights made from esparto grass, a desert herb that goes wonderfully well with wicker baskets, not to mention a few vintage touches for decoration, like these gilded mirrors found in the region...
What is more, each accommodation has a name inspired by one of well known French writer Marcel Pagnol's novels, which only adds to the charm of the place...
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‘The first volume of Marcel Pagnol's childhood memories, published in 1957, left its mark on 20th century literature. It is also an invaluable account of a historical period: the Belle Époque, as it was experienced in Provence, through the eyes of a young boy’... (historia.fr)
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A native of Aubagne, the author, who we always have a pleasure to quote, will accompany vacationers throughout their stay at Le Clos bohème. Family and friends are sure to feel like home in La cave du Vigneron (10 p), La Belle époque (6 p), La gloire de mon père (4 p) and the 3 rooms for 2: Manon, Marius and Marcel.
While the stone walls bring warmth and serenity to the estate, the pool area and shaded pool house, decorated with large Moroccan jars, are the perfect place to enjoy a gourmet breakfast or a picnic-style local meal. The view over the surrounding vineyards spreads a feeling of well-being and tranquillity, while the boulodrome provides that little South of France je ne sais quoi, reminiscent again and again of Pagnol's dialogues such as the famous tirade ‘Tu la tires ou tu la pointes’ (You pull or you aim the bowl?)...
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The hamlets of Baron: ‘Bézut, of Celtic origin, Mas de Bagard, Château de Font-Couverte, Mas de Clary, which succeeded Mas de Marignac of Gallo-Roman origin, Mas de Fabre on the road to Collorgues, the Grand Chemin district on the road from Alès to Uzès. (wikipedia)
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Good to know: The Clos Bohème can be hired out for a day (or more), an option worth considering for large parties, family celebrations, Christmas markets... And why not use the estate as a backdrop for a photo shoot?
The little extra touch: On the estate's website, you'll find Le journal du Clos bohème for ideas on what to visit, a travel diary that is just waiting to be expanded and, a shop selling southern products, some with the Clos bohème label. A subtle touch that is much appreciated, both on site and online (white ceramic light fittings designed and made by Julie, numerous items for home (tableware, household linen, soaps)...
Coming soon: a spa area adjoining the accommodation. Just the thing to add to the leisure and relaxation on offer at Le Clos bohème. Relaxation guaranteed!
Thanks to Julie and Quentin Vilenne for their contribution to this article.
The right address: Le Clos Bohème, 291 chemin de Font-Couverte, Baron. Contacts: Tel +32 472 96 80 19, leclosboheme@gmail.com. Follow Le clos bohème on Facebook and Instagram.
Photos@saloméwithacamera.