Notes from the host
Mill House
This striking mill house (dating back to the mid 19th century) had stood empty for 60 years. It has now been renovated to a very high standard but still retains all the character you would image for such an old, interesting and historic building. It has two double bedrooms each with their own staircases and bathrooms. It's almost a house of two half's, yet quirky, it's well insulated, double glazed, spacious but cozy and has all the benefits of modern life whilst retaining a feel of a 'rosier' bygone time.
The house stands in two and a half acres of private woodland and is bordered by a stream to one side and and apple orchard to the other. Wildlife is in abundance from kingfishers, buzzards and woodpeckers to deer, squirrels and tiny lizards. In spring the woods are full of bluebells, but each season brings its own delight for you to explore.
An impressive house of four floors, it's known locally as the little manor house. Also known as the 'haunted' house but as I have yet to see an apparition we assume this is either just local legend or that the spirits are content!
As you arrive there is a gated parking area with space for at least 2 cars. On this level there are two large cellars. The cellar to the left is now a wood store, laundry room and downstairs toilet. There is also a staircase leading to the kitchen on the first floor.
In the cellar to the right we store garden equipment. But more interestingly , under the stairs, which also lead to the first floor, there is a wine cellar.
From the parking area you climb the few steps (there is also a ramp) which lead to the front door and directly to the first floor.
On entering you find yourself in a long corridor with the door to the left leading to the sitting room. The staircase rising to the first bedroom and bathroom or straight on into the kitchen.
The sitting room has a fabulous log burning stove (electric heating is also available in all rooms) which is guaranteed to keep you warm even on the coldest winter nights. The furniture is clean and comfortable and the house has a quirky regency style featuring cut glass chandeliers, books and ornaments. there are some other slightly more 'emporium' artifacts, which I will leave for you to discover yourself.
The kitchen is both old and modern. The log burning range is wonderful in winter months but the modern inset electric oven and gas hob more practical for other times of the year. There is a dishwasher, fridge, kettle, toaster and coffee maker and sufficient kitchen paraphernalia to keep most cooks happy. The dining table and chairs seat four very comfortably.
From the kitchen another flight of stairs leads to the second bedroom and bathroom.
Bedroom one is an exceptionally nice room. It has a three windowed aspect with wonderful views over the stream to one side, orchard to the back and the lane which passes the house to the front. Fantastic in the summer with windows open and lacy curtains blowing in the breeze, or warm and cosy in the winter with the feature fireplace twinkling (you'll love it or hate it but you don't have to turn it on).
The double bed is new and very comfortable. Breakfast in bed and a good book an absolute must.
The bathroom is just next door and is a treat. It has a loo, good big bath and overhead shower. The basin is peculiarly set into the old marble fire surround.
The second bedroom is accessed by a second staircase leading from the kitchen. It is a smaller room set in the eaves. It has a large velux window and two single beds. Again the mattresses are new and very comfortable.. The bathroom opposite has a full size bath with over head shower and a rather intriguing basin set into an old sewing machine base. Sometimes after a hike or a bicycle trip, you can't beat a long soak.
It's a quaint little house with a labyrinth of stairs and corridors. Ideal for two couples or perhaps a family with slightly older children.
One of the great joys of this house is its position., away from it all and yet not isolated. The nearest town is La Chapelle d'Andaine. Its a quick 2mins in the car, or you could easily cycle or walk. It is not a tourist destination but a typical French town where people live and work. It has two banks; two boulangeries, a butcher; cafe/bar hotel and restaurant, La Poste, medical center with doctors and dentist. and a super market.
Five minutes in the opposite direction you find yourself in the spa town of Bagnoles de L'Orne. This is a gem for tourists. A large choice of restaurants, casino, cafe bars and terraces. Activities throughout the summer months which include street theater, live music, firework displays and much ,much more.
Le Pré du Moulin is an excellent base for anyone who enjoys country living. Walkers can explore the paths and tracks which start from right outside the house. Cyclist can enjoy the quiet country lanes. The area is steeped in history for the history buff and there are many gorgeous yet often little known grand houses and castles to visit in the area.
J
Hosted by Jennifer Stocks
