Le Portail was built over 200 years ago, situated in 2 acres of agricultural land on the outskirts of Cogles on the Brittany/Normandy border offering over the years shelter to many French families.

One day this proud strong house with barn attached was put up for sale and left empty for almost 40 years. Being left to decay, enduring all weathers, the war, and ridicule from passers-by this property began to crumble and was no doubt the village eyesore.

Quite by chance, Olly and Ann walked through the gateway and immediately an invisible bond was formed and they began to make plans to buy and restore this now homely property.

Within 3 months Le Portail became legally theirs and some 2 years later they left very good jobs in England to move to Brittany bringing with them their loved pets.

For a long, long time they lovingly worked hard and gave this old barn a new life. This new life is to offer excellent homely accommodation to families whilst on holiday in this magical region.

Le Portail means "The Gateway" and you are very welcome to walk through the gateway to have a memorable holiday within the strong walls of this lovely old house.

Le Portail has 2 acres of child secure garden and meadow for you and your family to enjoy. On offer is our superb new splash pool with decking area. Garden furniture and a gazebo for people who like to relax in the shade.

The game of boule is a traditional French pastime and because of this we created a boule court for our guests pleasure. Garden lights have been installed for evening games when the weather is still pleasant even at a late hour.

There is always a village boule contest during one of the August weeks and many of our guests have participated and had a thoroughly good time.

In the meadow a full sized badminton court is there for your enjoyment.

All necessary equipment is provided free of charge for all these activities.

Jokha is our 11 year old pony who likes giving children gentle rides for a small fee of €6. This helps towards his Winter feed during the colder months. Pony rides are bookable in advance each morning. If children care to involve themselves with the grooming, saddling up etc., this can be arranged beforehand. Hard hats are available and must be worn at all times and during each ride. This has been a very popular extra that we provide and just one of the many bonuses we are pleased to offer.

Farmhouse Kitchen

The farmhouse style kitchen offers every utensil you would wish to need and more. With a large gas cooker, Whirlpool dishwasher, Whirlpool automatic washing machine, fridge, freezer, small electric over and a large screen colour television with English programmes.

Our second television is situated in the kitchen and you can watch a different programe to the one in the lounge or a DVD.  This is ideal if you have young children.

An original stone farmhouse fire with a 'Villager' log burner - firewood supplied free if required. Kitchen table, chairs and a 3 seat settee. The floor is tiled. 2 windows and a stable door look out onto the extensive grounds with a gravel path outside.

The Dining Room

A very pleasant sunny room with a large farmhouse table and chairs. Two highchairs available on request.

Ideal to begin your day with a croissant breakfast looking onto the garden area!