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How do I pronounce Déhès?
The final letter is pronounced — say “day-ess” quickly.
Is heating included?
Central heating, to a reasonable level, is included during the winter months. The walls are thick and with shutters closed at night it retains the heat well. It is far cosier than many an English country house in winter. You will not need thermals but don’t forget your jumpers!
May we bring our dog?
Sorry, pets are not allowed at Déhès.
Is smoking permitted?
Sorry, for safety and other reasons we cannot permit smoking inside the building or outbuildings.
Do I need to bring sheets and towels?
No, good quality bed linen is provided and beds are made up before you arrive. We also provide bath and hand towels and towels for use by the swimming pool. Tea towels, dishcloth etc are supplied for use in the kitchen. Linen is changed weekly.
We have a baby. Do you have a cot?
There is a modern English cot (fixed sides, but height-adjustable base) with good quality mattress and linen, including duvet. If you prefer not to use a duvet for a small baby please bring your own blankets, sleeping bag etc. There is also a good solid high chair. If you like to use a harness with a highchair please bring your own.
Do I need to speak French?
As always when abroad, it helps to have a few words of the language. You will need to phone the caretaker, who lives off-site, to let him know you are on your way. Neither he nor the he housekeeper speak English, but you will be surprised what a smile and a gesture will do. It would be worth your while to invest in a phrase book if you don’t remember any school French! There are dictionaries and other language books at the château.
Are there any ghosts?
Not that we know of. The tower is an exceptionally secure and friendly place to sleep alone. I know—I’ve done it.
Is the garden fenced?
No, this is rural France. The property is set well back from a single track tarmac road. It is surrounded by fields so agricultural machinery operates from time to time. If you have small children you will need to keep an eye on them at all times. The swimming pool is fenced to comply with current safety regulations and it will be your responsibility to ensure that the gate is locked when you are not using it.
You say there are bikes. There are only two of us - do we really need a car?
It would be possible, at a stretch, for a couple to use public transport to get there and the bikes for shopping but they would need to be fit - aspiring Olympians perhaps! The shop and boulangerie in La Romieu are about 5 kilometres away.
Is the property suitable for a wheelchair user?
It would be difficult. The main living rooms are upstairs (23 steps between each floor), and the downstairs bedroom is down 3 steps. Access from outside wouldn't be easy for a wheelchair. If a member of your party has mobility problems we can send some pictures to help you judge.
Can I garage my car?
Sorry, we need the garage for garden and pool equipment, so for safety reasons you cannot use it. However there is plenty of space for parking just outside the château.
Is the swimming pool heated?
If necessary the swimming pool can be heated early in the season at cost but in our experience it is warmed very quickly and efficiently by the sun. Use the pool covers at night and when not in use. Reduce unnecessary heating – help save the planet!
When are the sunflowers in bloom?
They have a long flowering season covering approx July to August. Due to the crop rotation pattern of M Gallet (the neighbouring farmer) we cannot guarantee sunflowers around the château every year! Nonetheless it is stunning no matter what crops are grown or what time of year you are there.
Is there someone who could cook for us?
When there’s an excellent kitchen? And fine English language recipe books, several devoted to French regional cooking? There are many good restaurants for eating out and savouring the local cuisine. Markets are overflowing with abundant fresh produce and don’t forget that France is the home of the ready meal: a visit to a charcuterie will ensure you dine well even if you never dirty a pan.
Is there access to broadband?
Sorry, no. However in Condom there is a very good and cheap cybercafé with broadband and friendly staff. We get an excellent mobile phone signal so there is no problem if you are equipped for 'mobile broadband': this is the country - speed is fast dial-up but perfectly OK for normal use. | 