We wanted to use Brittany Ferries to book ferry crossings and accommodation for a holiday in France. We wanted to spend a week in the Auvergne and were looking at the area between Aurillac and Conques. Brittany Ferries only have a few properties in this area. I dismissed those that would entail a long drive along narrow roads at the start and finish of the day. This reduced the choice to one; L’Oustelou de Vernusse, just outside the small village of Cassaniouze, about 25 miles south of Aurillac.
This proved to be an excellent choice as it gave us a wide range of different scenery covering the volcanics of the Massif Central, the Lot valley and the limestones of the Midi-Pyrenees to the south.
The gîte is about 5 minutes drive from the village, on top of the plateau with a superb view across rolling countryside with wooded valleys. There is no light pollution and on a clear night the stars are amazing. There are a few isolated farms and the only sounds are cow bells, crickets and the occasional donkey.
It is a typical Auvergne building of dark volcanic stone with a flared stone roof to throw off the winter snows and shutters. There is a small garden and terrace where we ate our evening meal. Inside there is a large open plan kitchen, dining room and sitting area. There was a washing machine and large drying rack provided. There is also a washing line and pegs.
It is comfortable and well furnished. There are several folders full of information about the area. even though I had done a lot of research before we arrived, there were several leaflets about places I’d not come across.
Upstairs are two bedrooms; a double and 2 singles, and a small bathroom with excellent shower. There is a small charge for bed linen, but you need to bring your own towels. This was a delightful place and we really enjoyed it.
It was also a good base. Cassaniouze has a bakers and a small but well stocked Utile supermarket. There is also plenty to do within one to two hours drive.
This is a truly delightful place – we loved it.
