Gîtes Cantal

The 3 emblematic places to discover in Cantal

Staying in the Cantal without exploring its treasures is unthinkable! This region is packed with heritage, cultural and natural gems that attract the curious and history buffs alike. Here are three sites not to be missed during your stay in a Gîte.

1. The Château de Pesteils

A symbol of the Cantal region, the Château de Pesteils embodies the richness of its history. Its majestic facades, architectural details and unique atmosphere make it a must-visit. Take the opportunity to explore every nook and cranny, listen to the stories of the locals or simply stroll around the grounds: a true immersion in the soul of the region.

2. Le Puy Mary

This iconic Cantal site offers a different perspective on the region. Between preserved nature, art and breathtaking panoramas, it invites you to relax and contemplate. Ideal for a family walk, an impromptu picnic or a magical moment at sunset.

3. Salers

Round off your exploration with Salers, a local nugget. Whether you're a lover of culture, gastronomy or traditions, this village brings together everything that makes the Cantal so unique. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and local know-how in an authentic setting. These three must-see places perfectly capture the spirit of the Cantal: a harmonious blend of heritage, nature and gentle way of life, to be discovered without moderation from your Gîte.

The ideal season for renting a Gîte in the Cantal

In the Cantal, each season transforms the holiday experience and gives a new atmosphere to your rental, whether you're travelling for two, with family or friends. In spring, nature reclaims its rights along the footpaths and in the villages, the air becomes lighter and the days longer: this is an excellent time to book a Gîte at a good price, enjoy beautiful views over the hills and organise easy walks from the centre of the villages, with peaceful nights away from the hustle and bustle. In summer, the Cantal is alive with lakes, walks, markets and local events: choosing this type of accommodation means you can combine active days with a return to peace and quiet, with comfortable accommodation to rest in each night, while comparing rentals according to travellers' opinions and the view you are looking for. In autumn, the landscapes take on warm colours and the atmosphere becomes quieter: this is the ideal time for a gourmet getaway, visiting the villages, and opting for accommodation well located between town and countryside, with cosy nights and often more affordable prices than in high season. Finally, in winter, the Cantal invites you to cocoon after an outing in the fresh air: a cosy Gîte becomes a real interlude, an alternative to a flat, so you can enjoy a quiet stay beside snow-covered landscapes or close to good addresses, selecting from among rentals according to your budget, type of accommodation and reviews.

The 3 must-try activities during your holidays in the Cantal

Your holiday in the Cantal in a Gîte rental quickly gains in intensity when you alternate the great outdoors, culture and gourmet pleasures. For travellers who want to make the most of every night on site, here are three top activities to do easily from the centre of a town or by the edge of the countryside, whatever your type of accommodation. A good idea to compare rental prices, read reviews and choose the experience that suits you, as a couple, a family or several people.

1. Hike to Plomb du Cantal for spectacular views

If you're looking for a must-do nature activity, head for the Plomb du Cantal, the highest point in the département. It's the perfect place to get a breath of fresh air, walk the ridges and enjoy the impressive panoramic views. From your rental, you can organise a half-day or full-day outing, then return to the comfort of your Gîte for a restful night, much more intimate than a flat.

Address : Station du Lioran, 15300 Laveissière, France

2. Visit Château d'Anjony and delve into local history

For a cultural break during your holiday, the Château d'Anjony is an ideal visit. This medieval fortress, remarkable for its towers and interior decor, allows you to discover an authentic facet of Cantalien heritage. An excellent option for travellers who like to alternate strolls along scenic roads and discovering a historic site, while remaining within reasonable distance of their rental accommodation.

Address : Château d Anjony, 1 Le Château, 15230 Tournemire, France

3. Fill up on flavours at Saint Flour's covered market

It's impossible to miss a local market to sample Cantal specialities. The covered market in Saint Flour is a popular meeting place for locals and travellers alike, ideal for filling your basket with local produce and talking to producers. Practical when staying in a Gîte, as you can cook on the premises, keep the cost of your meal under control and enjoy a convivial evening before a new night's sleep. The market is located in town, not far from the centre, making it easy to get to even if you're comparing several rentals in the area.

Address : Marché couvert de Saint Flour, Place d Armes, 15100 Saint Flour, France

Our travellers' favourite amenities when booking a Gîte in Cantal

For a successful holiday, the comfort of the rental is as important as the destination. According to our travellers' reviews, certain facilities often come up when choosing a Gîte in the Cantal, whether it's for a weekend for two, a family break or a holiday with friends. Here are the most sought-after options in our rentals, to make the most of every night on site, at the best price, in town, in the centre of a village or on the edge of the great outdoors, with the view that makes all the difference.

• Comfortable bedding and spacious beds for restorative nights after sightseeing, far more enjoyable than a standard flat.
• New bathroom with walk-in shower or bath, ideal for relaxing on the way back to the accommodation.
• Private outdoor space terrace, balcony or garden, perfect for enjoying the peace and quiet of the Cantal, on the edge of nature, with a beautiful view.
• Fitted kitchen for preparing a home-cooked breakfast or a convivial dinner, practical for keeping the price of your rental stay under control.
• Efficient heating or air conditioning depending on the season to ensure good comfort, whatever the type of holiday.
• Wi Fi broadband to organise outings, check reviews, compare rentals and share photos.
• Washing machine and tumble dryer very popular for stays of several nights, especially for families and groups of pers.
• Private or secure parking a real asset, especially for rentals in town or close to the centre.
• Pets accepted to go on holiday without changing the type of accommodation you're looking for or leaving your companion behind.
• Well-being area jacuzzi, sauna or swimming pool, for a more premium experience in certain rentals.

Each Gîte in the Cantal has its own style, but the objective remains the same for travellers: practical, comfortable and well-located accommodation, adapted to the length of the stay, the number of people, and the view sought.

What is the average price of a Gîte in the Cantal

The price of a holiday rental in the Cantal depends on the season, the number of people, the number of nights, the view and the type of accommodation you choose, in town, in the centre of a village or on the edge of nature. Whether you're aiming for a stay in a flat for two travellers, a more spacious family Gîte or premium accommodation, you'll find rentals to suit your budget, by comparing reviews and services.

Price benchmarks found for a night's rental in Cantal, according to type and season:

• Apartment or studio for 2 people
  • Low season November to March: from €60 per night
  • Mid season April to June and September to October: from €80 per night
  • High season July to August: from €110 per night
• Gîte or family home
  • Low season November to March: from €90 per night
  • Mid season April to June and September to October: from €120 per night
  • High season July to August: from €160 per night
• Premium accommodation with spa
  • Low season November to March: from €150 per night
  • Mid season April to June and September to October: from €180 per night
  • High season July to August: from €250 per night

Price tip: to get the best rates on a Gîte rental in the Cantal, it's best to book several weeks in advance, especially in summer, when demand from travellers increases in the centre of villages as well as on the edge of wide open spaces.