Are you trying to find some unusual accommodation in Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region in SW France? The region is renowned for being home to a variety of different types of places to stay. So it’s going to be a case of decisions, decisions and, yes, you guessed it, even more decisions.
Is it treehouses and floating villages, or a stylish barn? Château stay or fruit-farm fun? I find choosing the accommodation for a holiday can sometimes be the trickiest part of planning the whole thing! Especially if you’ve got a family and are looking for somewhere that’s a bit unusual! There is just so much unusual accommodation in Nouvelle-Aquitaine!
We recently spent a week travelling around Nouvelle-Aquitaine with our 2 girls (aged 4 & 6) and discovered many distinctive and unusual types of accommodation dotted all across the region. So, here are our 6 favourite spots;
1. Floating Village in Pressac
First up, how about a night sleeping in a Floating Village in Pressac Here, you can wake up to the idyllic sounds of gently lapping water and then, before you know it, breakfast arrives – on a boat – which you can enjoy Al Fresco, right there on the deck. Most importantly this place gives you an unusual experience to be closer to the nature during your trip. The Floating Village of Pressac also offers many activities on the banks: Interpretation Centre of Nature, a swimming pool, walking and interpretation trails, a restaurant-tavern on the waterfront. And let’s not forget about the playground which was a winner with our girls.
2. Château Marieville
Later that day, a little piece of history was waiting for us inside the walls of Château de Mariéville . An utterly charming couple are your hosts, waiting to treat you to some great local food, whilst you enjoy a very stylish yet historic backdrop. As a result we couldn’t imagine better place to stay while in France, truly unique.
3. Défi Planet
You don’t have to look far to find a unique place to sleep when you visit Défi’ Planet in Dienné. This place is secluded within a rustling oak forest. Because of that DéfiPlanet is a nature and adventure park that’s home to many unusual accommodation you can think of! They have houses shaped like rabbits, chickens or even mushrooms! For us though, nothing beat cosying up in a treehouse and having our breakfast delivered the next day, all done via an ingenious pulley system.
Additionally, there are over 120 green acres of wonder and enchantment to be discovered at DéfiPlanet. It includes restaurants, an equestrian centre, heated indoor swimming pool and activity park. Certainly, the emphasis is firmly upon preserving the stunning natural environment all around the park.
If you decide to venture away, you’ll find plenty of ways to spend your time. There are many medieval towns to wander through.
4. Cabanes Les Folies de Sophie
If you’re looking to get back to nature and experience what life is like on a working fruit farm, then look no further than Cabanes Les Folies de Sophie. Here, you really are back to basics! Firstly, there’s no electricity or running water in the tree house. But that just adds to the fun and helps make it something a little bit more unique and fun! Secondly, in the morning, look forward to tucking into fresh homegrown Agen prune jam, on a fresh french baguette for breakfast – a taste sensation!
5. Le Préau de l’Horizon
If you visit Penne d’Agenais (a fortified hilltop town) you should also consider staying at Le Préau de l’Horizon, which is a truly special retreat that can be found within an old girls school. Interestingly, the rooms were even decorated with a school theme and ours had a distinct Geography/History feel about it! Their attention to detail was incredible, breakfast was a real treat of local delicacies. Let’s not forget that it has fantastic views of the Valley. On the other hand, its location allows you to enjoy the life of the village and its restaurants.
6. Bassivière Barn Chic
If on the other hand a boutique barn conversion, with stylish interiors and amazing views is more your thing, then a ‘must book’ is at Bassivière Barn Chic. It’s the perfect setting and backdrop for a country break, and you can look forward to exploring amazing places like Monflanquin & Villeréal. The onsite restaurant is quite simply out of this world – you won’t be disappointed. Overall the accommodation has a cozy feel with plenty luxury at the same time.
In conclusion, we loved the variety of unusual accommodation and fantastic food which we discovered in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Check out our itinerary and most recommended places to see while exploring the region here:
