Hidden in the heart of the charming historic town of Pezenas in the Languedoc- Roussillon region of Southern France, the Couvent des Ursulines, an 18th Century convent has been discerningly converted into four spacious contemporary holiday apartments. A beautiful sanctuary a stone's throw from the towns centre, the Couvent des Ursulines is a perfect base from which to enjoy the town with its plethora of art galleries, workshops, antique shops, restaurants and wine bars whilst absorbing the town's rich medieval history.

The warm Mediterranean climate (Pezenas gets over 300 days of annual sunshine) makes Autumn a great season to discover this fascinating region with its vibrant colours, abundance of nearby vineyards and wealth of outdoor activities whilst the famous Pezenas Antiques Market on 14th Oct 2012 draws crowds from far and wide. (In October the Herault has average temperatures just slightly higher than London July and August temperatures).     

About Couvent des Ursulines

The Couvent des Ursulines is a hidden gem. Located along a quiet side street, the shade of the Couvent's secret leafy garden provides a reviving and welcome contrast to the hustle of the town.  Mature trees lead up to the magnificent stone façade of the Couvent, which is divided into 4 self-contained, self-catering apartments. Individually designed, each has a private terrace for al fresco dining. Elegant arched doors lead into spacious open plan salons - light, airy and well-furnished, whilst fully equipped kitchens ensure guests can make the most of the tasty fresh produce from Pezenas market - wild, garrigue honey, freshly baked bread, huge selections of cheese and meats or for more adventurous palates Le petit p'té de Pézenas, a delicious small sweet/savoury pie is a must. 

The mezzanine provides a recluse with TV, DVD player and radio, Wi-Fi and a sofa bed (which can turn into an additional bedroom). On the second floor there are two charming double bedrooms enhanced by unique antique furnishings - large marble fireplaces and heavy wooden shutters, with en-suite bathrooms and restful views over the Mediterranean garden. A glorious green tiled pool with sun deck and sun loungers provides a perfect oasis in which to curl up, relax and soak up the Autumn rays.  A bbq area is provided for guests in the shade of the mature plane trees.

Art, Architecture and Antiques

Pezenas is famous for its antiques, bric a brac and shabby chic furniture with over 40 resident dealers and an overwhelming number of alluring Aladdin's Cave inspired shops. Your hosts at the Couvent des Ursulines can organise a day out with an antiques expert so you can benefit from the valuable insider knowledge on to where to find the best deals - from old wooden French furniture, vintage linen, silver cutlery to copper cauldrons. For those into browsing for a bargain, there are two not-to-be-missed annual Antique Fairs taking place in Pezenas on Sunday 14th October 2012 and Sunday 5th May 2013. These draw crowds from all over the world; whether professional dealers, antique enthusiasts looking for a rare bargain or interior design aficionados searching for an unusual objets d'art.

Easily accessible with great flight connections, Pezenas' central location makes it a great base to experience the region's highlights. Near to the Etang de Thau with its wonderful little ports and seafood restaurants, guests can spend a day on a boat seeing how the oysters are cultivated before tucking into a plate of "Fruits de Mer" at one of the fashionable waterfront restaurants in Marseillan or tour one of the local wineries by cycle. Pezenas has its own wine appellation and the September wine harvest is not to be missed. The friendly team at Couvent des Uruslines can provide intimate details to ensure wine tastings our mapped out at the most interesting wineries.

Child friendly and versatile, the charming apartments at Couvent des Ursulines are the perfect way for families and groups of friends to holiday together - the separate accommodation providing invaluable privacy, the central location ensuring ultimate flexibility. Autumn is an idyllic time to visit. Blue skies and warm clear days make it the perfect time to enjoy the outdoor activities - bike trips along the Canal du Midi and hikes in the National Park, visits to local vineyards and long afternoons exploring this beautiful French town.  

Pricing:

Apartment Rental (sleeps 6) for 7 nights (self- catering) in September 2012 costs £1,115 

Apartment Rental for 7 nights in Oct 2012, April, May 2013 costs £860

Apartment Rental for 7 nights in Nov 2012, March 2013 costs £665

From mid-September to mid-May weekend breaks are offered. £140 per night for 2 couples sharing with a minimum of 3 nights in Sept/Oct. £100 per night for one couple minimum of 3 nights in Sept/Oct.

Notes to Editors:

For further information please visit www.pezenas-couvent.com. To enquire or make a booking please call 0033 6 64 35 83 61 / email info@pezenas-couvent.com

For media enquiries please contact Nell Hegarty, Mercator PR, nell@mercatorpr.com or +44 (0) 203 566 2332