Le Gite de Caillou, Le Vernet Sainte Marguerite.

Description for B&B:

"The House of Stone is a charming family home situated in the heart of the Auvergne region. The owner, deeply in love with the area, wanted to share his experiences and the small pleasures of life here through this house.

Located in the village of Vernet Sainte Marguerite, perched over 1000 meters above sea level, the house offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. It is nestled between the southernmost volcano of the Puys chain and the towering slopes of Sancy. Those who are accustomed to exploring the Sancy using the D5 road will never tire of the stunning scenery that unfolds upon reaching Vernet Sainte Marguerite. However, in winter, the plateau can be a challenging test for drivers on snowy roads, reminiscent of adventures in Nordic countries.

This cozy cottage, classified as 3 stars, is an ideal base for hiking enthusiasts. It allows them to explore both the volcanic craters and the peaks of the Massif Central. The house boasts a beautiful slate roof and exudes an atmosphere of "raw wood and animal skins," with antique decorations chosen by the owner. Old boxing gloves resembling squash racquets, vintage transistor radios, and other unique treasures are proudly displayed. Despite its rustic charm, the house also provides modern comforts. A discreet pellet stove warms the space, while a hidden TV screen and a well-equipped kitchen add convenience to the rustic ambiance.

For those who love the sun, there are two spots to enjoy breakfast: a deck and a balcony. From these vantage points, guests can admire the picturesque and rural heritage of Vernet Sainte Marguerite, including the village church, the war memorial, the town hall, the fountain, and the wash house. If lucky, one may witness locals still using the wash house for laundry. The village hall, occasionally hosting festive events, stands in the distance, alongside the magnificent Puy Allou.

A wooden staircase leads to the attic, where the sleeping area is situated. Two bedrooms, one with a double bed (140) and the other with two single beds (90), provide a comfortable sanctuary. The bathroom and toilet are conveniently located on the lower level.

The House of Stone is perfectly positioned between Lake Chambon and Lake Aydat, as well as the Nordic areas of Pessade and Beaune le Froid. It is also surrounded by the majestic peaks of Puy Balladou and the stunning gorges of the Monne. Whether visiting in summer or winter, this cottage, known as Pebble, invites guests to come and experience the beauty of Auvergne in all seasons."

Description for Gite

This charming house, with its beautiful slate roof, provides the perfect retreat for those seeking a rustic ambiance adorned with vintage decor. The owner's collection of antique items, such as old boxing gloves and squash racquets, along with hanging horns reminiscent of trophies, create an atmosphere of "raw wood and animal skins." Despite its old-world charm, modern comforts are subtly integrated, such as a pellet stove discreetly placed between the hutch and buffet, a couch, and a TV screen hidden within a cabinet, reminiscent of a time when television broadcasts were not yet commonplace.

The kitchen, although not equipped with a dishwasher, showcases a dated yet inviting open counter that connects to the dining room. Ascending the wooden staircase leads to the attic, where the sleeping area is located, featuring two bedrooms - one with a double bed (140) and the other with two single beds (90). The bathroom and toilet are conveniently situated on the upper floor.

To fully enjoy the sun, guests can savor breakfast on either the deck or the balcony, both offering picturesque views of the quaint and rural heritage of Vernet Sainte Marguerite. From here, one can admire the village church, the square with its monument honoring soldiers from past wars, the town hall, the fountain, and the washhouse (where you may still catch a glimpse of women doing laundry). In the distance, the sweeping view extends to the majestic puy Allou.