La Maison de la Fontaine Chambres d’ Hôtes de charme

1 rue de la Fontaine 64190 Araux

France

La Chambre Asie

80€ per night for 2 people, 70€ per night for 1 person

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Contents

Title Page

Welcome 3

Your hosts 4

Your room 6

The Séjour 7

The Salon 7

Outside—Flower Garden 8

Outside—The Orchard 9

Outside—The Vegetable Garden

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Outside—The Pool & Me-diterraenean Garden

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Outside—The Field 10

Araux 11

Regional Products 12

Some things to do within 15 minutes of the house

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Useful Information about your room and the house

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Where to eat out 20

Jurançon wines 21

Phone Numbers 24

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Welcome Welcome to La Maison de la Fontaine ! We hope you will enjoy your stay with us and find your room and the salons comfortable and the gardens and surrounding countryside relaxing and rejuvenating. Here you will find the opportunities to read, to listen to music, to watch films, to sunbathe in the Mediterranean garden of the pool, to swim, to play tennis, to wander through the formal flower garden, to talk to the chickens in the orchard or the cows in the field or watch the fish in the bac, to walk around the vegetable garden and look at the bees or nature corner, or to stroll around Araux or to ravel a little further field to enjoy the beautiful countryside, partake in the many activities on offer and to eat excellent Béarnaise cuisine and Jurançon wine. Particularly noteworthy are the local Garbure (vegetable soup), the early morning sunrise, the spectacular sunsets and the clear, dark night skies which allow splendid views of the heavens and the often missed milky way. In your room you should find everything that you need for a comfortable and rewarding stay but, if not, please do ask and we will do our very best to help. However, whilst we pride ourselves on trying to be awarm and friendly family home offering discerning visitors a memorable b&b experience, we are very definitely not trying to be a hotel so we do not provide such services as in room dining! This brief guide is designed to answer the most commonly asked questions but, again, please do feel free to ask if anything is not clear, or if you need further help and advice.

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We look forward to getting to know you a little better, to enjoy your company and to share our love of the Béarn with you.

Your hosts - the family - who we are Depending on the time of year you can expect to meet any or all of Jon, Kate, Clare and Helen Siviter, their two dogs Rolo and Tilly, the three outdoor cats, Gin (the yellow and brown one), Tonic (the white, yellow and brown one) and Brownie (the white and brown one). Jon trained as a physicist at university and started his career with the petrochemical giant Shell which is where he met his wife Kate. After a stint with Schlumberger in the Middle East he changed direction and taught physics in the UK, subsequently becoming the headteacher of a large independent school in the NW before taking up overseas posts in South America, Asia and the Middle East. His interests are many but include restoring La Maison de la Fontaine, making furniture, scuba diving, sailing and astronomy. Kate trained as a classicist and modern linguist (French, Italian and German) at university and met Jon whilst she was working for Shell in Human Resources. During 22 years of service with Shell she held many positions in the UK and also in Africa. Apart from her family she has many interests

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including gardening, reading and music. Clare finished school in 2008 and is currently on a GAP year before going to university in the UK and France to study French and International Studies with a view to becoming a lawyer. Her interests include French, politics, music, art and cooking and whilst on her GAP year she will spend sometime in Germany to brush up her German. Helen is in the last year of her boarding school and hopes to study Classics at university. Her interests include ancient languages such as Latin and Greek, modern languages such as French and Arabic, music and Art. Our dogs, Rolo and Tilly, are brother and sister and long serving and immensely loyal Staffordshire Bull Terriers. They eat other dogs for breakfast (!) but are extremely kind, gentle, soppy and safe with humans and especially so with babies and young children. However, as with many middle aged or elderly beings they have a weight and fitness problem so do not need extra feeding or tit bits! Our cats, Gin, Tonic and Brownie, are mogs, fun and vivacious but definitely not allowed inside the house!

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La Chambre Asie

Whilst you are staying with us you might be interested to look at the furniture and pictures in your room – a subtle blend of Asian and European with memories of colonial times. The bed and armoire were purchased with the house and subsequently restored by Barthalou, who also made the mantelpiece for the fire place (the carvings are traditional symbols in Béarn) and the cupboard. The chest in the fireplace is probably Chinese in origin but came from Sri Lanka. The dragons to either side of the fireplace came from the closed city of Jaffna in Sri Lanka and the intricate cushions from the central highlands of Sri Lanka. The writing box on the chest also comes from Sri Lanka and dates from the 19th Century – it was used as a lady’s writing box in colonial times. The butler’s trolley in the window is Victorian, as are the three half round tables. The map of Sri Lanka is an original 17th Century map used by early European explorers and colonists, the maritime pictures reflect important colonial battles of the 19th Century. The Persian rug comes from Afghanistan and was purchased in

the Emirates. The wooden

Èinstein game on the Butler’ trolley comes from Chile.

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The Séjour Dominated by the Cheminée, most of the furnishings in the salon are British in origin: the two round tables are Victorian as are the bureau and occasional table, the chest is Queen Anne(?), the, the chest under the window is of Chinese origin and the maps are all of our home county in the UK, Rutland. The collection of ceramics on the glass shelf above the stone sink is largely Chinese in origin with Japanese and Nepalese pieces too, the large round rice and food container is of Chinese origin as is the round food

store. The sofa is modern but made in Sri Lanka and the yellow chair is Victorian. The rugs are from Afghanistan.

The Salon

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The largest piece of furniture in the salon is the baby grand piano, a 1904

Bluthner used at one time by Pissaro. The large display case is modern but off traditional regional style and was made by Jaureguiberry. The two cupbards are Victorian, the fine card table is Georgian, as is the nest of tables. The grandfather clock is Victorian. The ceramics are of Middle Eastern Origin, the large table lamp is of Chinese origin and the small octagonal table is Pakistani. The pictures are by Anthony Gross and David Hockney. The kelim is from Iraq.

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Outside…..

The Flower Garden The flower garden was created by Kate in 2005 on the site of a section of walled off field used for keeping farm animals. The intention was to create a low maintenance formal garden with a subtle fusion of English and French themes. The lavender beds bordered by box and the gravel pathways lend formal structure to the garden, as does the large water feature in the form of a two tier fishpond with waterfall. The large borders add a touch of planned randomness together with height and breadth. Although not yet finished (is a garden ever finished?) the overall effect can be seen and enjoyed by all: there is colour all year round and an appealing balance of shade and sun at any time of the day.

The Orchard

The orchard was planted in 2005 on a section of fenced

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off field. There are some 40 fruit and nut trees arranged in a classic five point pattern. The varieties chosen are all local and seem, in the most part, to be flourishing well and producing an increasing harvest each year.

The

Vegetable Garden The vegetable garden was created in 2008 in a walled off bit of field previously used for chickens. There are some 20 raised beds which will be planted with a wide range of vegetables. The idea behind raised beds, which although common in the UK, are not common in this region is to provide well drained soil which does not need to be disturbed when being maintained or crops

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harvested. This does much to preserve the delicate soil structure and prevent compaction and degradation. The garden is essentially organic.

The Mediterranean Garden and Pool

Started in 2004 with the building of the pool in the middle of what was then an open field and finished this year, this enclosed and very private area encloses a large pool, a large plage and a varied Mediterranean garden which is in sharp contrast to the flavour, smells and feel of the formal flower garden. Here it is possible to swim, sunbathe and take in the delicate aromas and dream of far away places. Next year a traditionally styled pool house will be built providing covered eating facilities.

The Field

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For cows, horses, dogs, kite flying and stunning views of the mountains – the trees were planted in 2008 to line the perimeter of the field.

Araux Araux is today a small village of some 120 inhabitants, known as araniens (men) and araniennes (women) situated 110 metres above sea lavel and with a surface area of some 540 hectares. The village is known to have had considerable importance in mediaeval times as it is mentioned in records written in 1223 when it was known as Arau—Susoo which means ‘the valley where roses grow’. The village was once owned by the Barons of Jasses but was later handed over to the Rubafferon family. Araux has one of the largest forests in the Canton de Navarrenx which has been owned by the Commune since the early 15th Century. Apart from the pretty little church, Araux boasts three bridges crossing the Lausset; le pont Rèquamale, le pont Pierre (1888) and le pont Cameich (1891). It also has 2 lavoirs (public laundries); Canfranc built in the early 19th Century and the more modern one opposite the Fronton built in the 1950s. There is also a Fronton which is often used for the Basque game of Pelota.

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Produits regionaux Local specialties include the following: Chocolate—the world famous Lindt factory and factory shop are just 20 minutes away in Oloron. There are several other local producers of chocolate to. Duck—giving confit de canard, cuisse de canard and foie gras and duck fat (chips cooked in duck fat are not nearly so bad for you as ones cooked in ordinary oil as it contains virtually no cholesterol) Garbure– delicious soup made from vegetables and meat. Normally forms the first course of lunch anywhere! Jams—or ‘confitures’ are particularly good and made from local fruits Mushrooms—known as cepes—are delicious and hunting grounds are jealously guarded! Piment-peppers which can be very hot like chilli.

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Pork—a whole range of products including many charcuteries, confit de porc, jambon etc Salmon—from the local Gaves—cooked in many ways Salt– from Salies Soap—made from locally produced oils are particularly good Tobacco—cigars made locally are judged to be comparable with those made in Havana Trout—from the local Gaves Wine—Jurançon (dry, seet and largely white) and Madiran (largely red) wines All the above are available in local shops in Navarrenx Some things to do within 15 minutes of

the house Araux may be a small village but there are many interesting things to do, not only within our house and grounds but within 15 minutes travelling tile of the house itself. Here are some ideas……. Go for a swim in our swimming pool or relax in one of the poolside sun loungers Follow our treasure hunt (children!)

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Take a bike and cycle on the small lanes behind Araux, or cycle down to the river Borrow a fishing rod and fish in the stream or river (paying heed to the fishing regulations) Put on a pair of strong shoes or boots and walk in the field, along the tracks to neighbouring villages, in the forests and along the banks of the river Borrow a pair of binoculars to look at wildlife in the fields and woods, or the milkyway, moon and stars at night (never at the sun though!) Take a wander through our gardens and smell the plants, hear the bees and taste some of our harvests Borrow a book from one of our shelves and enjoy an hour or two reading Borrow a CD and listen to some music or borrow a dvd and watch a film Ask to taste some of our local products – pate, foie gras, vegetables, herbs, fruit, wine, honey (these can also be bought) Play one of our many house or garden games If a match is going on, watch Pelota on the Fronton or Quilliers at the Hotel Rey in Araujuzon Take a picnique to the river

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Walk a section of the GR 65 and Route de Compostelle Go antiques hunting in the local shops Play tennis on the public courts in Navarrenx Go horse or carriage riding at Gurs or visit the concentration camp museum Go hot air ballooning at Audax (when available) Go rafting, kayaking, canoeing from Navarrenx or Sauveterre Go microlighting or Karting at Villesgure Visit the historic town of Navarrenx and the village of Laas with Chateau Laas and its beautiful riverside beach Eat at Chez Claverie, Auberge de la Fontaine at Laas or Chez Labat at Araujuzon Please see our comprehensive tourist information for further details of these and other activities and for details of activities further afield.

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Useful information about your room and

the house Adapters for plugs - there is one universal adapter provided. Please ask if you need further adapters. The mains voltage is 220V. We can provide a 110 volt transformer if required. Airlines, airline information, transport to and from airports and train stations - Ryanair (www.ryanair.com), Flybe (www.flybe.com) and other airline information can be found in the information folder or directly from the websites. We can arrange transport to and from Biarritz, Pau and Bordeaux airports and the train station at Orthez. Baby cots / Baby sitting - Please ask if you want to borrow a cot or high chair. Baby sitting can sometimes be arranged, the usual fee is 10€ / hour. Bathrooms – we are not connected to mains sewerage but to our own septic tank. Please do not put things down the loo other than a reasonable amount of toilet tissue. Bins are provided for all other items!

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Blankets, bedding and pillows (extra) – can be found in the cupboard in your room. Bottled water (still and fizzy) - can be found on the tray. Please ask if you need more. The mains water in the bathroom is safe to drink too! Ice is usually available if needed. Breakfast and other meals – please let us know what time you want breakfast. Normal hours are 7.30 to 9.30 but please ask if you need an early breakfast. Please note that cooking is not allowed in the rooms! Business needs - please ask if you need to print, copy, fax or scan documents or use the Skype phone. Computers, email and internet – WiFi is accessible throughout the house and gardens. Please ask for the access code. There is also an Ethernet connection in each room and a cable is provided. Please ask if you need any assistance. We can also provide internet and email access if you do not have a computer. Credit cards – we do not take credit or debit cards. Payment can be made by cheque or cash. Emergencies and Emergency numbers – the house is equipped with a centrally controlled and externally monitored fire alarm system with detectors in each room and fire extinguishers in the hall and on the landings. The house is also equipped with a sophisticated burglar alarm system which is armed if ever the house is unoccupied. To call the emergency services, ring 15 (Ambulance), 17 (Police) or 18 (Fire).

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First Aid - please ask if you need minor first aid items such as plasters etc We are not allowed to provide you with medication such as aspirin but, if necessary, we will take you to the pharmacy to make your own purchases. Flies and mosquitoes - a natural hazard in the countryside in summer months! We remove flyspray before guests arrive but leave electronic mosquito killers plugged in. If you have a problem please let us know! Housekeeping – fresh bed linen and towels are provided on your arrival and, for guests staying several days, will be changed on the fourth day. In room entertainment, TV and radios – a radio and TV with satellite is provided in each bedroom and in the salon. Please do not disturb your fellow guests! Each room is also provided with a variety of books, magazines and at least one wooden game. Keys – please always leave your room key in the house. If you need a front door key please ask. Iron and ironing board – please ask. Lost and found – if you lose anything please let us know and we will do our best to help you find it. If you find anything please hand it to one of us. Medical assistance – if you require medical assistance please let us know and we will contact a doctor for you. Parking and car alarms – cars should be parked in the

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car park and not in the courtyard. Alarms should be switched off – the gates are locked at night. Pets – pets are allowed only by prior agreement. Under no circumstances are pets allowed in the house rooms. Postage stamps – please ask if you need to buy stamps. Restaurants and reservations – we are happy to recommend good local restaurants and to make bookings for you. We do provide a drive to and collect from service at a small extra cost. Shops, Sight seeing / tourist attractions; Sports and recreation – please see the information folder in your room or the more extensive information available in the salon. Smoking – is not allowed in the house under any circumstances. Guests can smoke in the gardens or, subject to other people’s wishes, in the well house. Please use the ash trays provided and dispose of stubs properly. Swimming pool – if the outer door is open the swimming pool is in service (normally 7.00am – 10.30am and 5.30pm – 8.00pm). Please abide by the safety instructions posted there and, in particular, look after your children. Guests use the pool entirely at their own risk. Please do not use your bathroom towels – just ask us for pool towels. Taxis – please ask if you want us to reserve a taxi for you. Times – we normally ask guests to depart by 10.30am and to return after 5.30pm

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Valuables – please do not leave valuables in your room – we cannot be held responsible for any losses. Valuables can be left in the house safe. Wakeup calls / alarms – please let us know if you want us to wake you Anything else……Please let us know if you need help or advice with any of the following: car hire; consulates and embassies; courier services; doctors, dentists and other health professionals; florists; foreign exchange; gifts; gyms; hair salons / dressers; interpretation and translation; laundry, dry cleaning and pressing; mail; parcel wrapping and mailing; photocopying; printing; safe deposit boxes; secretarial services, sewing and garment repairs, shoe cleaning and mending.

Where to eat out

There are three excellent restaurants close by which provide lunch and dinner and relaxing drinks in between. Chez Labat in Araujuzon is just 10 minutes walk away. It specialises in sturdy family cusine—lots of garbure, excellent crudités, omlettes and charcuterie, local fish on some days, steak, excellent duck and pork and outstanding chicken (on Tuesdays) with a range of yummy desserts. In summer you can eat on the delightful shady terrace, in winter in the very traditionally French restaurant. You are always guaranteed a warm welcome by

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Françoise, Genevieve and their daughters. Lunches every day 12.00—14.00, dinners Friday and Saturday nights only except in July and August when dinner is served every night. It is advisable to always reserve a table. Telephone 05.59.66.52.21 Chez Claverie in Audax is about 5 minutes drive away (10 minutes cycling and 25 minutes walking) across the Gave d’ Oloron opposite the house. Arguably the number one restaurant in the region, it provides classic French cusine in a traditionally French setting (front restaurant) or in a modern salle (second restaurant). Chefs Alexandre and Sebastien are passionate about their food: Alexandre concentrates on meat and soup, Sebastien on desserts which can be out of this world! The whole operation is orchestrated under the watchful if not steely eye of Madame Claverie with brilliant service being provided by their team of waitresses headed up by Vivienne. Jean Pierre Claverie holds front of house and grows all the vegetables you eat—at the age of 80+. It is a wonderful experience to eat here but you need to book for the evening. The restaurant is open for lunch every day and for dinner every day except for Sunday and Monday evenings. Telephone 05.59.66.03.80 Restaurant Auberge de la Fontaine at Laas is some 7 minutes drive away and only opened this year but has already achieved tremendous success. You are assured of a very warm welcome by Susie and her husband…...who is the chef. Cusine is excellent classic French with some nice modern twists. In summer you can sit on the delightful terrace to drink a long cold drink, eat lunch or dinner: the setting is idyllic opposite the very pretty church in Laas and there is plenty of room for children to wander off and explore in safety. Usually busy or very busy it is best to book. Telephone 05.59.38.20.20

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Jurançon Vineyards Jurançon wine was undoubtedly the first wine in the world to obtain the "appellation contrôlée" (A.O.C. is the official French designation which guarantees the area from which a wine has come, the method by which and the grapes which it is made) as a guarantee of its quality. It was granted by the Parliament of Navarre in the 14th century. In 1553, the future King, Henry IV, was baptised with a drop of Jurançon wine. The golden wine was then hailed as the "wine of the King and the King of wines". It enjoyed such royal acclaim until the 19th century. Small parcels of vines are tucked away in the sunny coombs spanning from the terraces of the Castle of Pau to the chain of Pyrenees mountains. With an altitude of 300 metres, the climate is a combination of harsh mountain weather and humid mildness from the ocean. In the autumn, the wonderful Indian summer in the Bearn region and the southerly wind are ideal for the passerillage (or drying of the grapes): an over-ripening of the grapes which provides Jurançon wine with its unmistakable mellowness. The local grape varieties are adapted to the climate: very high vinestock to avoid spring frost and very resistant grapes. The Gros Manseng is the basic grape variety for dry Jurançons and young mellow wines. The Petit Manseng with small berries produces the best mellow wines which age well. The Corbu, Camaralet and Lauzet add a spicy touch. This wine has long since

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proved its worth. It is sold worldwide and in particular in Northern Europe. It is a very interesting excursion to visit a number of vineyards and taste their produce and we can provide you with details of particularly good caves to visit. It is also worth visiting one or more of the following—particularly if time is at a premium: Jurançon wine grower's cellar - offers advice and the possibility of tasting all of their range. It is open every day from 8.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m. and from 1.30 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. and on Sunday in the summer from 9.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m. and from 3.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. It is situated in the commune of Gan, on the edge of the N 134, in the direction of the valleys Contact details: Cave des Producteurs de Jurançon 53, avenue Henri IV 64290 Gan Tel. no.: 00 33 (0)5 59 21 57 03 Email: cave@cavejurançon.com www.cavejurançon.com La Maison de Vins—independent producers sell their wines directly here. It is open every day from 15th June to 15th September each year from 10-12 in the mornings and 3-7 in the afternoons. At other times of the year the hours are more variable and it is best to ring in advance. La Commanderie de Jurançon 64360 Lacommande