On-trend gite near Laon and Reims with hot tub and breakfast

Owners Julien and Aline are certainly gifted at aesthetics and it’s a project they did entirely themselves after falling in love with the former barn in 2019. Time, care, elbow grease and attention to detail is what they committed to its 110m², the result a contemporary modern-rustic look merging stone, brick and wood, all finished with a smattering of carefully curated pieces. Pretty much all you have to do is plonk your case down and relax because every conceivable comfort and convenience is covered: open plan living space with a designer swing chair suspended from the ceiling, easy-on-the-eye restyled retro furniture, and a sofa to sink into overlooking the completely private terrace through French doors. The terrace’s hot-tub is wooden to blend in seamlessly with the gite’s look, and with warm lighting making it all the more inviting, we predict there will be frequent hot-tub dips together, clinking flutes of course – you’re very close to Reims here, the epicentre of Champagne production!

Post-apéritif you’re going to need a nice kitchen to prepare some local northern France specialties, though that said, who exactly wants to cook on holiday?! Alternatives include ordering up a ‘planche gourmande’ take-out (yes, you’ve guessed it, a gourmet platter) or a special Sunday brunch, each of which can be delivered direct to site.

Though this offer is for two people, the gite actually sleeps four (just let Julien and Aline know if you’d like to enquire about upping the number of guests) which goes some way to explaining why the stairs (a design feature in themselves) lead to a choice of bedrooms each with its own individual décor and private bathroom. Maybe you’ll opt for the bedroom with the integrated shower area and gorgeous exposed brick. Or maybe you’d rather sleep in the bedroom with the funky tropical wallpaper and big bath.

Next day, you’ll go off exploring this lesser-known part of France, the département of Aisne. Walking or cycling is undoubtedly the best way to make the most of the tranquil landscapes (search up the ‘Voie Verte de l’Ailette’ cycling route via forests, lakes and meadows) or head off in the car to beautiful Laon just 7 km away, a magnificent medieval hilltop town with a majestic cathedral, town ramparts, and underground warren of atmospheric citadel tunnels to explore. Finally, if you want to take weekend zen to the next level, just ask Aline, in advance of your trip, about recommended local massage services or even yoga.