Le Merlat dates from 1773 and consists of an old Chartreuse, attached barn and separate barn (the gite) all around a grassed courtyard area. It is set within 25 acres of pasture land including a large lake which is located down a hill behind the House and Gite. There are lots of wild flowers and butterflies including Swallowtails.  We have a resident barn owl who who raises a family each year and lives in the Chatreuse roof  There are also Red Squirrels, kestrels, Buzzards, Black and Red kites, Harriers, Green Woodpeckers, Hoopoo-and many small birds.

In 2007 we started a flock of sheep and so from March 2008 there should be lambs in the fields. We also have free range chickens - who do encourage guests to feed them - and depending on the time of year there will be ducks who are kept separately. We also have 2 collie dogs - Molly and her daughter Pi. Molly and Pi love Gite guests, particularly children, and will adopt guests quite happily. They love to go on walks with guests and have lots of sticks thrown for them. If their company is not welcome then they will go away if ignored!

We also have a Harris Hawk called Gertie. Depending on the time of year Hawk experiences can be offered- tailored to what is wanted.

Our aim is to provide the facilities so that guests can have a great holiday. We provide a complimentary welcome basket containing free range eggs, home made jams, baguette, coffee etc and of course a bottle of local wine. Guests are also able to pick tomatoes and melons (free of charge) from our vegetable garden.

Families of all ages have enjoyed their stays here. Enjoying going out to explore the local area and then returning to use the pool and have a barabecue. Our nearest neighbours are farmers who are 2 fields away and so youngesters can make as much noise as they want without having to worry that they are disturbing anybody.