16 January 2015 by Amy Buckingham

Eco-Gites of Lenault: An Ecological Working Farm

Built to be kind to the environment using reclaimed, reused and eco-friendly materials and furnishings this converted hay barn in Calvados welcomes people from all over the world to this quiet corner of Normandy, offering a relaxing and enjoyable holiday to families and all-adult groups who wish to discover this stunning part of France all year round, from just £350 pw.

Here in the heart of Normandy, you really are spoilt for choice when it comes to sightseeing. Both Mont St Michel and Bayeux make wonderful day trips, whilst kayaking down the River Orne (with a minibus trip to get you back to the start) is fabulous for adventure seekers. Or if you’re feeling really brave, what about a bungee jump off the Viaduc de Souleuvre, or paragliding at Clécy? For food lovers there is the cheese-making village of Camembert (don’t miss the cheese museum), whilst those with a sweet tooth might want to seek out the famous caramel factory at Isigny sur Mer.

This spacious gite is easily accessible, attracting a wide range of visitors, and receives very positive feedback. Those with children are well catered for, thanks to an array of child-friendly kit ranging from climbing frames to sandpits, and most popular of all, the chance to meet and get to know the farm animals. Adults meanwhile love the fact they can escape, enjoy the peace and quiet and let their children run free.

The open plan, well-equipped kitchen makes cooking meals simple, or alternatively take a stroll into the local town where you’ll find a good range of restaurants to suit all tastes and pockets. The wood burner in the living room is a must for peaceful winter evenings and the garden with its sun umbrella and barbecue is essential for hot summer afternoons. The gite has three bedrooms: – a master bedroom with double bed, a twin room with two full-sized single beds and a mezzanine with a full-sized single bed, all prepared for a comfortable stay.

The owners Rosie & Simon Hill live next door, so are on hand to greet you on arrival. They are very happy to make reservations for you and can offer all sorts of recommendations from local specialities to events and any other tips to ensure that your holiday in this stunning part of Normandy is as enjoyable as possible.

Asked why they chose to live in the area, Rosie replies: “We chose Lénault for pretty much the same reasons that our visitors are drawn to us: a beautiful rural location, close to many tourist attractions and not far from a ferry port. We also needed somewhere with land for our animals.”

Many guests take a keen interest in the smallholdings and how the owners live – as well as the animals themselves. And some even get involved, helping Rosie with the feeding of the animals.

With so much to see and do, it’s no surprise that the property attracts many repeat guests, with many returning for a second or third stay. And Rosie proudly points out that some have even stayed here as many as five times! That’s a telling seal of approval.