Our stunning 15th century Catalan farmhouse with indendent studio and infinity pool is perfect for family groups or friends looking for a secluded getaway in this picturesque corner of the French Pyrenees. Set in a hectare of beautiful mature gardens with a stream, playground and infinity pool, you will be spoilt for choice for areas to sit, relax and enjoy the tranquility and sunshine. Forest walking trails can be found from the front door and the local town is a short drive away. The property comprises of a stone farmhouse, with an independent studio apartment looking on to the pool. The main farmhouse (upper levels) has two double bedrooms, one mezzanine with double bed, fully equipped modern kitchen, shower room and a double height dining hall and living space, plus an independent apartment with an suite double bedroom with poolside private access and sofa bed for extra sleeping options. There is also an extra shower room with toilet and laundry room in the cellar, perfect for poolside showering and changing. The owners live in the neighbouring house, the old barn. You have exclusive use of the pool, all the terraces and eating areas, the barbecue, stream and full garden. We are on site to be discreet and maintain the property; clean the pool, feed our five chickens, but we maintain a low profile and are only there if you need us. We are a family with two young children and can provide everything you need for your little ones (highchairs, travel cot, baby gates, baby park, etc). Please inform us in advance if you have any such requirements. You will need a car to access this rural property. Access is via a 3km unmade road. You do not need a 4x4 to drive this road (we have a Fiat 500!) but please drive slowly. There is private parking in the grounds of the house Clot d'en Guardia is our permanent home, but we completely 'ship out' while guests are staying so you can be assured of privacy, peace and quiet. We will, however, be on hand a short walk away for any requirements or questions you may have about the property, the local area and to help with translation if required. We will require access to maintain the pool daily, to ensure it is always ready and safe for you to use, but this will not encroach on your stay at all and does not require access into either of the houses. The house is nestled in the heart of the Tech Valley, an area known as 'Haut Vallespir' in the Pyrenees-Orientales. During your stay you will be perfectly placed between the mountains and the Mediterranean, and good weather is guaranteed with the average year seeing 300 days of sunshine! Less than an hour's drive east will take you to some beautiful beaches and seaside towns with historic architecture and delicious fresh seafood. Drive (or cycle!) west into the mountains and you are spoilt for choice of winding roads with stunning scenery. You can be over the border into Spain within half an hour to experience the Catalan culture and cuisine. We adore our corner of France and would be delighted to share our recommendations for regional highlights over a glass of local wine. The house is located 3km up a dirt track and therefore having your own car or hire car is essential for staying here. The local 1 euro bus runs from the village (Can Partere) however, so exploring the local area by public transport is possible. The local town of Arles-sur-Tech is a 10 minute drive away and has two bakeries, bars and restaurants, a mini-supermarket (Spar) and pharmacy, as well an ancient abbey and artisanal workshop, both of which are worth a visit during your stay. There are hundreds of walking routes in close proximity to the house and we will be happy to share maps with you. If you enjoy cycling (as we do) there are fantastic road and mountain bike routes on the doorstep and we'd be more than happy to help you find bike hire and share our favourite routes. Your closest neighbour is a house called La Clairiere, about 400 metres further down the hillside. This is also our propertry and sleeps ten - contact us to rent both properties for up to 20 people