Castex

The main reason we are looking for a house-sitter is for our pets. We have one dog, a labrador-cross, and two cats. Daco, our dog, is quite an old man now but loves and needs a walk or two during the day. The cats, Clochette and Gracie, are both very independent though they are sociable and very easy going. They are used to having people around and very friendly. We would like a house-sitter to care for our pets and love them like we do. We would also ask that they keep the house clean and loved too. It would be a bonus if a house-sitter liked gardening and could help with general maintenance including weeding and pruning. The garden is big but the areas that need work are limited, manageable - and always negotiable!

Our dates are not yet firm. We would like to have some time to do the handover to our housesitters. It is possible that the end date may be a little earlier or extended.

A traditional farmhouse in south-west France set in beautiful countryside with stunning views of the Pyrenees. The farmhouse has many original features but is well-appointed and has wood burning stove, good central heating and ample hot water. The ground floor is open plan and spacious with sitting room, TV space and a big kitchen with professional oven and hob. The house is south-facing and has a door onto the terrace and garden. It is furnished in a relaxed and comfortable style. It is a great place to get away and find peace and relaxation.

Our beautiful studio is perfect for any artists and would also be good for yoga enthusiasts. We have a lot of books as well as TV and some DVDs available. The studio also doubles up as a ping pong room. There is a swimming pool but it is closed for repairs.

Our home is set in beautiful countryside but it is a little remote and you will need a car. It is the perfect get away if you want peace and perhaps a quiet place to work. The nearest village is 2km and has a bank, bakery, post office, chemist, vet, school, small Casino market shop and a couple of cafes and a bar - as well as an excellent restaurant which will close during winter. There are other larger villages and towns within half an hour including Foix.
We enjoy being in the middle of the countryside with a good variety of bird life, flora and fauna. There are beautiful walks from the door. It is a magical part of France and has stunning views of the Pyrenees mountains. It is a relaxing and lovely place to be and the see the seasons changing. You can read on any of the many terraces or simply look out at the view and just enjoy being there . It can be quiet in the winter and any house-sitters need to be independent and happy with their own company. There is a lot to do in the area if you are active and look for it. This includes discovering, by car or bikes, beautiful unspoilt medieval towns and villages and shopping at local markets full of fresh, local produce.

If you like exploring, by car or bike, beautiful countryside and ancient villages, you will love the region. There are wonderful local markets, full of colour. There are pre-historic caves nearby. There are walks for all levels of interest and ability. In the winter, the ski resorts are an hour and a quarter away. The beautiful university city of Toulouse, a vibrant cultural hub, is an hour away. The Ariege is a real unspoilt treasure with endless natural beauty all around.