Couple from Sydney, Australia 23 - 30 August 2014. - Not long enough!

Our stay in the Minevois has been absolutely delightful and our base here at 28 Rue des Remparts, Trausse was the perfect setting. The quiet and stillness here in Trausse served as a perfect haven after visiting some of the more touristy places. We started our stay here with a full day wine tour with Marcel with a visit to 2 vineyards and a lunch break in the middle where we tasted the local dish - cassoulette.

The day finished perfectly with a walk through Minerve. Was a great way to get our bearings. A trip to Olargues to see the medieval castle was spectactular. The drive through the mountains was pretty.

Narbonne is also a pretty city, much different to our 2 hour wait at the railway station on our first day. Sete is also worth a visit to see the jousting.

Get to Carcassonne early and walk the ramparts before anyone else gets there - can almost hear the click of armour - glad we live in this century! So many other drives to local villages and are always amazed at the churches and cathedrals.

We finished our stay with dinner at the Hotel Alibert in Caunes. Excellent everything and highly recommend at least one meal there. The host Frederique was just charming.

Marilyn and Steve have been wonderful hosts and we thoroughly enjoyed two early morning walks with them. They have made us feel like we were visiting old friends.

Merci beaucoup to both of you.

Couple from Canberra, Australia 9/08/2014 to 17/08/2014

We have thoroughly enjoyed our second visit to Trausse - thanks to the warmth and hospitality of Marilyn and Steve: Aperos, long walks in the countryside to Caunes, wine degustations at the Chateau de Gourgazond and the Fete de St Roch - with its local traditions and wonderful luncheon.

We loved our visit to the restaurant Tour Trencaval. Beyond the village we did several drives to towns along the Canal du Midi to observe the changes in the landscape, did a great canal tour from Castelnaudary after a delicious cassoulet at a brasserie "Le Francais Snack Bar" recommended by the local 'traiteur'. Our drive to Mirepiox was colourful with all the fields of sunflowers blooming.

Couple from Sydney, Australia 31 May - 07 June 2014

This has been our 4th visit to Trausse and our 2nd to No. 28 - need we say more. We love the Minevois area and this week have really enjoyed rediscovering places like Homps, Lastours (a sturdy pair of shoes and a reasonable level of fitness required.), Olonzac markets and le Lac de Jouarres as well as walks in the vineyards and along the Canal du Midi.

The restaurant La Table des Vignerons wasn't in Trausse the last time we were here 5 years ago but it is excellent and Denis is a perfect host. This time we didn't go to Minerve, La Cite, Queribus, Montsegur etc, but they are all stunning places to explore with spectacular scenery and wonderful history.

We have also very much enjoyed Marilyn and Steve's generous hospitality and they have introduced us to so many of the warm and friendly people in this gem of a village. Our sincere thanks to them for making this week so very special.

Couple from Sydney, Australia 10 - 30th May 2014

When Trausse was suggested to us for a village experience in the south of France, John and I had to be convinced that 3 weeks was not too long a time. Fortunately we believed it as we have had a truly authentic french rural experience.

Having a car we visited so many lovely little villages and markets, seen such special cathedrals and historic places like Mirepoix, Minerve, Narbonne and la Cite at Carcassonne.

A highlight for us was the trip to Girona for the floral festival. Marilyn so generously booked the hotel, drove us there and back and organised the most marvellous degustation dinner at a Michelin star restaurant to celebrate our 44th wedding anniversary. So special!

What with the aperitif get togethers at Marilyn and Steve's to meet other guests in their beautiful "salon", the great wine tour with Marcel, the Canal du Midi trip and all the wonderful meals and wines, we have had a great time, and always our warm little nest to return to after a busy day.

Thank you so much.

Couple from Canberra, Australia 14/9/13 - 27/9/13

We thoroughly enjoyed our two weeks in Trausse. While it has changed a little it is still the nice, relaxed 'non-touristy' little village we stayed in 12 years ago.

There are so many highlights of our fortnight that could be mentioned; abbeys, walks, wine, yet another pretty village, the Canal du Midi, Gouffre de Cabrespine, Lastours, Roquebrun, St Hillare and on and on.

The best thing about Trausse is that you can relax and also get out to many different places quite easily. And lastly Marilyn and Steve are wonderful hosts.

Couple from Orange, NSW, Australia 31/8/13 - 14/9/13

Our expectations were high and we were not disappointed. The village charming, the inhabitants gracious and the house at No. 28 a little gem of originality and taste. Steve and Marilyn you were marvellous and welcoming hosts.

The Minervois was full of lovely little towns and villages and the local rose wines just perfect for long lazy lunches. Great meals at le Table des Vignerons, Hotel D'Albert and La Table du Pareur (Villeneuve) to name but a few.

Great day trips to Mirepoix, Mazamet, Limoux, Alet des Bains, the spectacular Minerve, Queribus and Peyrepetuse and on and on.

There is only one thing that puzzles me - why is it almost impossible to return to Trausse from Carcassonne by the same route you got there? Our thanks to the whole cast who made it possible.

Couple from Sydney, Australia 3/8 - 10/8/2013

Our expectations were high and 28 Rue des Remparts and the village lived up to them. Will be very difficult to leave!!

We enjoyed:
- Narbonne - A beautiful French city
- Lunch in the courtyard at Caunes
- Day trips to Collioure, Mirepoix and Carcassonne
- "Snail Town" - Aigne - Had a great meal in the square

Lovely house and a great region. Thanks to Marilyn and Steve for everything!

A couple from Wollongong13th July - 27th July 2013

This is our second visit to Trausse. We have enjoyed No. 28 - it has been our little French home.

We had not even opened our car when Steve informed us we had 7 minutes to unpack and get spruced up for the Bastille Day dinner. It was a great welcome and a fantastic night. Thank you Marilyn for the organisation.

We have stayed local, walking and riding and most of all sampling the great wines. Hopefully we will return.

Couple from Invercargill New Zealand, Length of stay 1 week

Man from Halifax Canada, Length of stay 2 weeks

Couple from Sydney Australia, Length of stay 2 weeks

Couple from Auckland New Zealand,Length of stay 1 week

Couple from Wellington New Zealand, Length of stay 1 week

Couple from Sydney Australia, Length of stay 2 weeks

Couple from Egham England, Length of stay 1 week

Couple from Sydney Australia, Length of stay 1 week

Couple from Sydney Australia, Length of stay 1 week

Couple from Yarramalong Valley NSW Australia, Length of stay under a week

Two couples from South Africa 14th September - 21st September 2014

Marilyn and Steve, what a wonderful experience we had of the Languedoc. The people friendly and very helpful. 45 Rue des Remparts took us back in history.

Steve and Marilyn - two exceptional people - true ambassadors to Southern France and Australia. We cannot thank you enough for your hospitality and help. New friends for always to remember and admire.

Hope to see you in South Africa.

Couple from Canberra 18.05/14 - 14/09/14

Yes 4 months! This was our second stay at 45 Rue des Remparts (see 8/08) We have had an absolutely fantastic time using Trausse as our base. The stay was enhanced by the magnificant hospitality of our hosts Marilyn and Steve.

Here are some highlights and suggestions.
La Table des Vignerons - Trausse - the local restaurant, not one bad meal. Several excellent meals using local produce to enhance the eating experience.
In Rieux there is the La Bella Volta. They have a great menu de jour at lunch time. Fabulous tastes and large serves.
In Caunes we enjoyed many meals at the Grand Fontaine Bar and Restaurant. Great pub meals and service. They have France's best Cr�me Brul�e. Also in Caunes we enjoyed another brilliant meal at Hotel d'Alibert.
In the old city at Carcasonne is the Adelaide restaurant. We thoroughly enjoyed several meals there.

Local attractions we have visited include: La Cit� in Carcassonne which we must have visited 5 or 6 times. In the cathedral wait for the guys to sing. The church has great accoustics and the whole interior fills with their voices.

The city of Minerve is another standout. No explanation here, just go.
The four castles at Lastours, only 20-30 mins from Trausse.
The abbey in Caunes and the church in Rieux are also interesting.
Just outside Caunes also the church and surrounds of Notre Dame du Cros. A 15 minute walk above this church is the abandoned marble quarry of Caunes. Very interesting with spectacular views out to the Pyrenees. The immense cathedral in Narbonne is also worth a visit.

Beaches and swimming - The closest is at Lac Jouarres just beside Homps. Other nice beaches are those on the Mediterranean at Leucate, Canet on Rousillon and Collioure. Don't bother with the beach at Gruissan.

The coastal drive from Collioure and south into Spain and the Costa Brava is quite spectacular. While in Spain, we had a number of trips to Figueras (Dali museum) and Girona. The old city of Girona is fascinating to walk through and there are great views from the city walls.

The giant cave at Cabrespine is also spectacular and is only 16kms from Trausse.

The walks with Steve and Marilyn also provided great views of the surrounding area. If you get the opportunity, go on these walks. The aperitifs hosted by Marilyn and Steve gave us the opportunity to make many new friends.

Another day trip we did was to Albi, Castres and Mazamet. The petit train trip around Albi is well worth the effort and have lunch at l'Hibou restaurant.

Being cycling junkies we attended stages of all 3 grand tours - Giri d'Italia, Tour de France and Vuelta a Espana. There was a stage start in Carcassonne and we caught two stages of the Vuelta around Pamplona.

We did a two week trip through Italy, Slovenia and Croatia.

There is just so much to do, see, eat and drink in this part of the world. I could go on for a very long time.

Rather than do that, our advice is just get out there and see as much as you can. After all of our travelling it was also very nice to come 'home' to No.45 and the village of Trausse. We hope you enjoy your stay. In planning this trip over a number of years a friend said to us before we left "I hope it is not a disappointment for you". The trip has exceeded all our expectations.

A family from Pretoria, South Africa September 29th 2013

What a wonderful opportunity to experience real small town living in France. We loved your house and its location on the square. The fact that you were around the corner and your warm welcome and hospitality will long be remembered - maybe we can return it if you come to visit us in SA!

I have to congratulate Marilyn on the useful information provided in her guide. We will certainly promote your facilities here and will be back! Thanks.

A lady from Blackheath, NSW 15th September - 25th September 2013

Staying in the quintessential French house in the quintessential French village was a delight. Enjoyed revisiting the region and coming home each night to no.45!

Thanks Marilyn and Steve, best wishes and a la prochain.

Couple from Hobart, Tasmania 1st September - 15th September 2013

As we face the sadness of leaving � again �. We look back on another perfect fortnight in Trausse and forward to the next time.

As usual Marilyn and Steve ensured that the weather was just right and their recommendations and suggestions were perfect. Loved the walks, the wine tour, dinner at La Tables de Pareur and plenty of local wine.

Je suis d'accord.

Couple from Epsom UK 18th August - 25th August 2013

Met Marilyn and Steve in Provence and travelled back to Trausse. Aix en Provence is an amazing town if you have time to go.

Recommend Gayda near Lumoux Hope to see you in UK (Epsom) soon.

Couple from Te Kuiti NZ 7th July - 21st July 2013

Really enjoyed our stay in a medieval village and being part of village life, especially Bastille Day.

Thank you for organising dinner in the square. Met many people of all nations. Would love to see you in the Shaky Islands.

Lady from Te Kuiti NZ 7th July to 21st July 2013

Hi Marilyn and Steve, We knew we had struck gold with you from that first phone call from France. What a time we have had!!

We have loved interacting with our French, Aussie, Belgian, English neighbours. Everyone has been so kind and friendly. Drinks at night in the square under the plane trees a must.

Wine tour with Wendy a highlight and well worth while.

Au Revoir mes amis until next time. Marg

Family from Roseville Sydney 23rd June to 30th June 2013

Dear Marilyn and Steve,

Thank you for sharing your French oasis with us. The charm of Trausse must be seen in the context of the surrounding larger towns and villages. Amongst many highlights of our week was the discovery of a new restaurant in the adjoining village of Villeneuve - La Table du Pareur (details on board)

The d�cor and food was excellent and we highly recommend it as a must go.

Thanks again,

Two couples from London June 2013

Dear Marilyn and Steve, thank you so much for such a lovely stay. We have had such a lovely time here in Trausse. 45 Rue des Remparts has been such a perfect place to stay - we feel very lucky to have spent a lovely holiday here.

See you soon, I'm sure.

Couple from California 18/5/2013 - 19/5/2013

Moved from 28 Rue des Remparts to here on last night, and enjoyed looking out onto the street and watching life go by. Very snug with the thunder and lightning show that night. Wonderful stay altogether.

Vive la France, vive la Trausse, vive la Cappers.

Couple from Sunshine coast April 21 - May 19 2013

Trausse - one lovely month, April - May 2013. And what a lovely month we have enjoyed; so much variety amidst the everyday of this delight ful stone village surrounded by vineyards, beautiful mountain vistas and local places of interest. I have loved all the spring flowers, pot s of pansies, violas, snowdrops in gardens, clambering roses and the wisteria - also the wild red poppies.

I have loved waking up to see the tower illuminated during the night, the sound of church bells, the warm acceptance, the friendliness of the local residents, the visiting vendors, the wonderful walks - it has been a magical month living in this oh so cosy ancient home.

We have so very much enjoyed the comings and goings in the village square. Also the meetings - 'wild' parties with the other visiting Australians.

And a huge thank you Marilyn and Steve for your kind hospitality - Friday evening soirees - aperitifs - as well as the georgeous visit to Carcassonne for lunch and shopping - me rediscovering 'Ma Griffe' by Carven.

L'Amandier became our best loved place to eat - simple food with a sophisicated edge. Delicious. The other special treat was the fire. When we arrived the days w ere crispy cold - being as we are Queenslanders having the fire was quite a novelty as well as warming the 'cockles of our hearts',

We will miss the gentle ambience of the village, living in the golden days. However we will take away wonderful photos etc. memories - hoping to return one day?

Many thanks and kind thoughts.

P.S. Wendy's wine tours were outstanding, delicious and we are now most au fait with complexities, viscosity, peach aromas, mineralities, oak casks and vineyards!! Fun times! Cheers - happy days!

And I loved greetings from the man taking his pussycat for a drive, and also Miss Mimi over the road. Georgeous! Also the toffied almond croissants and Stephens duck rillettes!!

And on a final note, being as I am a most compulsive writer - thank you Marilyn and Steve for the fantastic 8kms walk/stroll this morning. I loved sharing your world. Scented thyme, horses running wild and the constant talk of bacon and eggs!! Hilarious! Delicious!

Will very much miss this comfortable French home - the peace and quiet. Yum!

We were "trés content" in Trausse, so merci beaucoup! See you in Sydney.

Take care. You were wonderful hosts. We were very privileged to have been at 45 Rue des Remparts!

Couple from Adelaide, South Australia 20-26 Oct 2012

This is our first visit to the Minervois and we have had a wonderful week exploring small towns and villages, and getting up into the Montagne Noir and driving on narrow winding roads with fantastic autumnal colour. A highlight was the wine tour with Wendy Gedney and we can thoroughly recommend the experience to those who follow. I must admit we have only scratched the surface of the history, architecture and areas of interest this region holds and would love to return.

45 Rue des Remparts is small and compact but still comfortable for two couples. Dspite having a bad leg I managed with the stairs and enjoyed the bell peals ringing out the hourly times.

We would love to return.

Couple from Adelaide, South Australia 20-26 Oct 2012

For a mere week we have steeped ourselves in this region of France - have drunk in the beauty, the charms, the wines and the French feel. We have loved the small intimacy of the village and its delightful, friendly people with whom we conversed (as best we could) in French and who were disarmingly charming, the many plump cats and lolliping dogs, the regular comings and goings of our neighbours, the charm compelling chimes. Hanging out our washing (x 3 loads) on the communal clothes line & harvesting herbs, grapes, figs (enough to even make fig jam!!).

Learning the vagouries of the French hours of business et al. It is something that one can't explain & wishes it could be "bottled". We have revelled in different experiences daily - the 4 round towns, the 7 sided church at Rieux, romantic canal trip, the winery day with Wendy and today through the damp, misty, hilly terrain of the vibrantly coloured Montagne Noire Massif Centrale to Minerve. We took a picnic lunch of local foods & lustingly looked up & looked over the Cesse Canyon - for 1 hour no-one came past. Divine! THE place to eat here is the local restaurant a few metres from here - this mother & daughter are synonymous with good food.

We've loved the charm of this house, the windows onto the square, the dear local man who gave us a bottle of his apperitif wine - the scenery & the historic surrounding villages are things that we'll cherish.

Family from Launceston, Tas Australia, Length of stay one week

Couple from Sydney, Australia, Length of stay 2 weeks

Couple from California, USA, Length of stay 1 week

The open markets and of course the brocantes were fantastic. After a whirlwind week in Paris- this was what we needed. Days to roam the countryside seeing Minerve, Carcassonne, Mirepoix, Lezignan-Corbieres, and up-up-up to Peyrefiche! Picnics and of course your "tres magnifique" dinners - lapin a la moutarde - we will never forget!!! Thank you for wonderful memories!

Lady from Atlanta, USA, Length of stay 4 weeks

Couple from Brisbane QLD Australia, Length of stay 2 weeks

Couple with a child & in-laws from Bermuda, Length of stay one week

Family from the Blue Mountains, Australia 10th September to 19th September

Thank you to Steve and Marilyn for our wonderful stay at La Bergerie. It's a great house to say in with its cool and leafy garden - perfect for families.

There are many interesting places to visit including watching the canal locks at Puicheric.

An amazing dinner was had at Hotel d'Albert for our daughter's 16th.

Couple from Queenscliff, Sydney - 17th August -September 7th 2014

"I had a dream", that one day my wife and I would spend time in a medieval village in the south of France - partaking in as much local produce as possible, ie baguettes,cheese, cold meats etc. Then of course those beautiful local wines, hic!

Long lunches in the late afternoon,sat outside in the street, with the locals gossiping - Albert comes to mind!

The dream was realised when we met Steve and Marilyn marketing their beautifully renovated homes in Trausse. The rest is now history! Great hosts, great walking buddies, wonderfully informative, making it a ghradual sliding effect into village life.

Memories for a lifetime! Thank you Steve and Marilyn so much. Merci and Au Revoir

Thank you Marilyn for taking time out with Jeanette to the doctor. My sister Wyn & brother in law Ken (who stayed a week) send their love.

Couple from Adelaide, Australia 24th August - 5th September

Thank you so much for a terrific time Marilyn and Steve for your wonderful hospitality. It's been a great 2 weeks. Such a beautiful place, lovely house, clean.

Very relaxing, such lovely people. So many beautiful places to see and lovely markets and eating places.

Was lovely to spend time with my brother and sister in law from Sydney, and my sister and brother in law from m/c in the UK.

Family from Bristol, UK 03/08/2014 to 17/08/2014

La Bergerie has been a wonderful place to stay and we are sorry to be going home. We have had a lazy time, but managed to fit in visits to Caunes, Narbonne, Minerve, Mazamet and Mirepoix. Purchases have included leather products, some jewellery and some 'artisan' food products.

We really enjoyed a wine tour to Domaine Gayda, organised by Marilyn and also the festival of St Roch - a Trausse festival which saw all of us (villagers and visitors) walk up to the chapel and enjoy a service of blessing for the animals and farmers.

Many thanks to Marilyn and Steve for their hospitality and the aperitifs that we enjoyed with them and their other guests. Needless to say, we will be back soon!

Couple from Southland, New Zealand June 29th - July 6th 2014

Our second stay in Trausse (8 years apart!) In 2006 it was world cup time. La Bergerie was only a barn with a courtyard then. What a transformation and beautifully done.

The thing that sets this apart is the generous hospitality and drawing together of community that Steve and Marilyn work so hard to create, Merci beaucoup.

We have loved - swimming at Lac des Jourres and Leucate Plage. -Dining at Hotel de Albert - Caunes and especially being taken to see the vines of Jean Baptiste, so we could better understand the growing process and his determination to use traditional methods to grow and produce wine and magic. Enchant�

Couple from Berry, NSW - June 21st -27th 2014

We loved La Bergerie - so comfortable and very easy to live in. No wonder other guests stay for long periods. We enjoyed a lunch and dinner at La Table des Vignerons and also lunch at Lo Cagorol Aigne - only 25 mins away.

Thank you Steve and Marilyn (friends for 30+ years) - your hospitality ad help was so appreciated and was the reason we came to Trausse. See you in Sydney. A bientot.

A lady from Texas, USA 4th - 10th May 2014

Thank you so much for your gracious hospitality. We love your home and your village.

You are a delightful hostess and, of course your parties are the greatest! Hoping to see you again.

Another lady from Texas, USA

Thank you Marilyn. The restoration on your houses is superb and we enjoyed spending time with you.

Sorry to have missed Steve but must save somethiing for the next time.

A lady from Auckland May 4th to May 10th 2014

Thanks to my dear friend Erin I was able to have a taste of French life in a most interesting and beautiful place. We love the house and surrounding village.

Thank you Marilyn and Steve.

Couple from Edgecliff, Sydney - May 4th -10th 2014

The preparation and organisation Marilyn and Steve made for our stay was meticulous, but more importantly, their hospitality during the whole of our visit was warm and generous in the extreme.

We stayed in this beautiful house, a real labour of love, and we have never been so comfortably rustic in our lives; not a single detail out of place, yet the house, as all can see, is chocka with charm. An experience to treasure.

Couple from Seaforth, Australia August 4th - October 27th 2013

3 months is a record! Thank you Steve and Marilyn for your hospitality, advice and information. The Fete de St Roch our first week was a nice intro to the village and people. 'La Bergerie' a great house and was put to the test when we had 8 there one weekend! (Thanks for the roll-away)

We had three different family groups here, from Suisse and Aust. So the BBQ was very handy. The Utile at Homps is a lifesaver when all else is closed. Minor village irritations were the lack of phone/internet service(for 3 months), no laundry dryer and the animal droppings, But it was all outweighed by our "French immersion".

We enjoyed 'degustation' at the Trausse Vignerons (The favourite was 'L'armourier) Unfortunately we can't recommend L'Amandier restaurant. Hard to know when open. Ate there once and it was not good. We have not tried Table des Vignerons - menu a bit rich for us. Enjoyed birthday dinner at La Table d'Emilie (Caunes).

Favourite restaurant is La Cagarol in Aigne (Snail town) Good food and value especially Monday and Tueday Lunch. I n Rieux 'La Bella Volta' is worth a try, slightly Italian but well done. Good seafood and Poisonnerie at Trebes by the canal.

Best market was Mirepoix (Mon) and town charming. We went to Barcelona 3 times to pick up and deliver at the airport. Had excellent private tour with 'Barcelona Day Tours'. Also one time stayed at Roses near Figueres for a bit of Costa Brava without the hassle. Enjoyed trip to Viaduc de Millau. On the way backstopped at the medieval village of La Couvertoirade. Most interesting. We travelled a lot - Paris, Spain, Switzerland, so La Bergerie was a great base. Thanks again, a Bientot!

Must mention that we were very happy with Corrinne's hairdressing. Both of us and our daughter had our hair cut.

Family from Coogee, NSW 30th June - 14th July 2013

Second visit to La Bergerie as wonderful as our first visit 2 years back - thank you so much Marilyn and Steve for introducing us to an area that we have grown to love.

Your house is so beautiful and we so appreciate your hositality and care. Hope to see you for the 3rd timesoon!

Love Laurie and family

Couple from Mosman June 2013

We travelled all the way from Australia to see our neighbours' "perfect French village". We've loved the sound of church bells, the beauty of the surrounding countryside and the excellent local food and wine.

We highly recommend the Cappers' lovely homes to any of our friends and we hope to return ourselves!

With best wishes

A lady from Rockley and a lady from Wollongong, Australia June 2013

We have enjoyed the house greatly, relaxing and hospitable with comfy beds!

The wine tour with Marcel was great, educational (for wines) though 12 hours from door to door was a little tiring. The tranquil surrounds of the village made it perfect to unwind. Small disappointment in lack of in-house WIFI and English TV or Sky.

Thank you Marilyn for your care.

Couple from Argentina May 2013

We enjoyed nice days in La Bergerie. The house is really comfortable and warm. Each detail seems to be carefully chosen.

Steve and Marilyn you are very good hosts and make people feel really happy. Thank you for all.

Couple from Cremorne, Australia 5th - 19th May 2013

Nora and I have greatly enjoyed our time at La Bergerie. The house is a pleasure to occupy with every little detail being perfect.

The local knowledge of Steve and Marilyn that has been captured over time makes living there easy. I will recommend any visitor to Trausse with even a small taste of goodlife to stay in Trausse with S&M.

Couple from Surrey BC Canada, 15th to 22nd October 2012

Thank you for a beautiful stay in the French countryside. Your sheep barn is amazing and you really have sheep barn doors complete with gnaw marks from the sheep's tooth! Just like my barn door at home!

Marilyn and Steve you have done a great job decorating and designing your house and it was a real pleasure to stay here.

Trausse is enchanting with so much to discover. We ate at L'Amandier and Les Vignerons du Table in the village and they were lovely. We had many adventures into the countryside including Olonzac markets, Esperaza and markets, Mazamet, Minerve, La Cite Carcassonne and the city of Carcassonne and all the lovely shops, Alet les Bains and lunch at the Bishop's Palace, Hostellerie du l'Everche, Rieux, Peyriac and Caunes Minervois. We also went on Wendy's wine tour which we highly recommend. Also enjoyed the beautiful rustic garden near the church and picked some wild thyme, rosemary and fennel to add to our dinner.

We hope to be back one day soon. Thank you for all the work you have done to make our stay so much like home.

Couple from London UK, 15th to 22nd October 2012

Well, Barbi & Gordon have said it all! We really enjoyed our stay in La Bergerie - you have put a great deal of thought into your guests'comfort. It is our first visit to the Languedoc and we will certainly return. A big thank you to Wendy for her superb wine tour. G'day! & thank you.

Two ladies from Sydney, Australia - 4th September 2011 to 16th October 2011

Steve and Marilyn, We are overwhelmed by the beautiful house, far beyond expectations. Thanks for all the detail. You must have enjoyed searching for the eclectic furniture. All perfect! Only just arrived so looking forward to meeting you. Have looked thru' the books and cannot wait to begin the adventures locally.

Thank you for all your efforts. It is much appreciated and I hope to come back some day. Locals very friendly! The others will add the local "must haves".

Highlights! Olonzac markets, Grotte du Niaux, the Cathedral at Albi, Mirepoix, Aix les Thermes (Spa), Castres, cycling alongside the Canal du Midi, Chateau du Peyrepetuese, Wendy's wine tour, Collioure, Narbonne beaches, Carcassonne, Girona Costa Brava,Figueres

One of the friends of a lady from Sydney, Australia � 18/09/2011

Thanks so much for a fabulous stay!

Two ladies from Sydney, Australia � 15/10/2011

Tess and I have really enjoyed our time at La Bergerie and it has given us a taste of the true French lifestyle. The countryside (and wine and food) are beautiful as are the people. Loved Mirepoix and Minerve. Thanks also to Marilyn and Steve for all the comforts in La Bergerie and for the tips about Girona, loved that too.

Wish all who stay here as happy and memorable time as we have had.

Couple from Auckland, New Zealand - October 23rd 2011

Hi Steve and Marilyn � Thank you so much for the opportunity to stay at La Bergerie. If not for the enquiry from you originally I guess this would never have happened. The weather was kind to us. Beautiful days and a bit cooler at night.

Your No. 1 walk was very much enjoyed today. It took us a leisurely 3 hours. Tonight we are attending a jazz concert at Caunes in the Abbey. Wendy�s tour was wonderful and to be recommended and we enjoyed a wonderful lunch at Aigne "Lo Cagarol" with our friends from Ireland who joined us for a few days.

Your information booklet was indispensible. Thank you for everything � we would love to return sometime.

P.S. The young man at the local store was very helpful and friendly. The food and bread there was as good and as reasonable as anywhere. Oh & NZ plays France Rugby World Cup tomorrow...could be awkward watching in a Bar in France!!!

Couple from Dublin, Ireland � October 2011

Lovely house and interesting town and good walking up the hill. We are guests of our NZ friends and have had a great week.

Family from Sydney Australia, Length of stay 1 week - 21st December to 28th December 2008

Family of 8 from Sydney Australia, Length of stay 2 weeks - 10th to 24th May 2009

Two couples - 1 from Canberra ACT & 1 from Sydney Australia, Length of stay 4 weeks - 2nd to 30th August 2009

Three couples from Auckland, Lower Hutt & Wellington New Zealand, Length of stay 1 week - 13th September to 20th September 2009

A visit to the Cathedral & Toulouse Lautrec Museum at Albi was another highlight - a "must visit". Enjoyed the Domaine Tour Trencavel wines & "discovered" Toulouse Sausicce (sausage). Special thanks to Steve & Marilyn for your friendliness, hospitality & assistance. This visit will live long in our memory.

Couple from Melbourne Vic Australia, Length of stay 3 weeks - 20th September to 11th October 2009

Three ladies from Newcastle NSW Australia, Length of stay 1 week - 17th to 26th October 2009

Couple from Naremburn, Sydney August 2008

Dear Steve and Marilyn, we are now back in Sydney and would like to tell you how much we enjoyed our stay in Trausse last August. Your delightful cottage, La Bergerie, was clean, comfortable and provided just the right blend for the four of us, from dining in after our regular forays to the markets in the district, to eating at local restaurants in nearby villages on other nights.

Facilities in 'our' tastefully refurbished house were ideal, from the large well equipped kitchen to the private back garden, where we relaxed at the end of each day, often making good use of the BBQ.

The village suited our purpose, being quiet and unadorned, located as it was in the middle of the vineyards. The locals were very friendly too. Surrounding villages were far enough away to provide us with a decent morning walk to collect the daily newspaper and baguette.

We would be very happy to recommend La Bergerie as a place to stay in the real French countryside. And the local wine is good.