Cottage With pool, set in a private 5 hectare domaine, perfect for nature lovers

About Tim Collins

We are biologists who live and work for the most part in Africa. We formerly worked in Congo (Brazzaville) but also have a foot in Kenya, where Hild (who is Belgian) works on a project to census elephants. Tim (who is British) researches whales and dolphins in two regions - central west Africa and the Northern Indian Ocean. We have a young son who revels in being outside and being very very dirty. We are animal fanatics and our house contains a riot of various beasts. We love peace and quiet, being in nature and sharing long meals with friends and neighbours.

Why Tim Collins chose Cenne-Monestias

Tim's parents have lived in Aude for over 20 years and investing in a house in the region ourselves was not too difficult. We love the area, its people and its many traditions. We are wildlife fanatics and the property is alive with native European animals (deer, boar, badgers, foxes, martens, bats, owls, hares, red squirrels and a slew of amazing birds, occasional peregrines included. The village of Cenne Monesties is unashamedly arty, something we greatly appreciate, and its inhabitants include writers, artists, painters, sculptors, dancers and acrobats. The region is alive with history, including wonderful castles with suitably gruesome and/or romantic pasts (great for kids), cultural events (theatre, music, arts festivals), traditional markets, lots of outdoor activities (walking, cycling, golf, kayaking, climbing etc).

What makes this Cottage unique

We enjoy the peace and quiet - the property can feel a million miles from anywhere yet the village shop is a quick 5 minute drive or cycle down the hill. There are pleasant walks, an abundance of quiet corners, beautiful views and the ever present sound of nature being busy. At night you might hear owls or the occasional deer barking, but not much else. The river is true Swallows and Amazons, and adults and kids alike can revel in exploring its sunlit pools and many fishing spots. The region has many good gites, but we struggle to leave ours and always look forward to going back. Its a special place.