Any Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the price?
Electricity, linen and broadband internet are all included. The only charges are for a change of linen at “half-time” for those staying a fortnight or more, pool heating (see below) and central heating which in the off-season is £150 per week. Please note it is not possible to have house central heating and pool heating at the same time.
Can the pool be heated?
The pool can be heated if requested in advance. With the prohibitive cost of oil, we do have to make a charge of £75 per week. However, it’s often not necessary. In July 2017 the pool was 29 degrees with judicious use of the solar pool cover.
What is the security deposit?
We ask £500 as a refundable inventory deposit?
What is the booking procedure and when is final payment due?
You’ll find full details on this here but in brief a deposit of £500 per week booked is requested at the time of booking to secure the property. The remaining sum is then due not less than 8 weeks before the beginning of the holiday.
Is there a boulangerie within walking distance?
This is probably the question we get asked most! The short answer is no – the nearest one is at Souilhe, a 5 minute drive away. However, there is an artisan travelling baker who drives past the house at 8am 3 mornings a week. He’s great!
What is access like for the disabled?
With the whole house being on a slight slope it’s not ideal for wheelchair users but when we were renovating the house we were keen to put one bedroom on the ground floor to make access at least possible. This is Bedroom Four and details can be seen here. This has double French doors allowing entry directly from the garden. If you’d like more information on this please get in touch directly and we’d be delighted to advise further.
Can I use the house for location shooting?
We’ve had a couple of photo shoots at the house and we’re always happy to accommodate. Equally, if you’re looking for a classic French farmhouse and you’d like to hire La Bomba for television or film shooting, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Are there high chairs and cots?
Yes absolutely! We have three young children ourselves and the house is well equipped on that front. There are three high chairs available and two cots and a further travel cot. Bedding is also available – if requested in advance – but we recommend you bring your own grobags etc.
Any recommendations for reading?
Lovers of historical fiction will enjoy Kate Mosse’s Languedoc trilogy – Labyrinth, Sepulchre and Citadel – all set in and around Carcassonne. I’d recommend John Burton Race’s French Leave for those looking for a culinary adventure. The TV chef spent a year in a farmhouse just up the road from La Bomba and this is his collection of local recipes and gourmet escapades. “Open this book and breathe in the aroma of rural France” according to Amazon who sell it second hand.
Are pets welcome?
Normally yes. This is on a case by case basis. It’s great dog walking country and my mother’s miniature dachshunds have been regular visitors
Is there a cafe/restaurant within walking distance?
The closest restaurant cafe is a delightful 40 min walk down by the Rigole. This is the feeder stream for the Canal du Midi that runs down the foot of the garden and leads from the Montagne Noir  to the canal. There are also 2 superb Michelin-starred restaurants within a 5 minute drive
Do I need to hire a car?
Yes!
Do you provide beach/pool towels?
Yes – one per person.
Can I have my wedding at the house?
We often get asked this and we actually had our own wedding at the house. It is a glorious spot to tie the knot but, to be completely frank upfront, it won’t be a cheap option. We request a minimum booking of two weeks and there is an admin fee of £2500. This may seem a lot but it is there to cover the inevitable costs involved on our part including travel to the house to ensure all is well for the next booking, liaison with the village mayor and general time costs advising you on the best suppliers.