As a treat for Robin’s birthday, and the ongoing thanks he deserves for our renovation, we stayed for 2 nights at a charming boutique B&B, Mas d’Augustine, near to Uzès in Languedoc-Roussillon. Mas d’Augustine is a former silk farm. It was built in the late 18th century. Before owners, Jane and Gary bought the property in 2010, a lady named Augustine lived in this farmhouse for 98 years.; it seemed only right to name the property after her.
Jane and Gary spent 18 months renovating the entire property, converting the spaces into 5 charming bedrooms with modern comfort as well as original features and architecture.
I think I was determined to stay here after I read about the well-stocked wine cellar…
The first thing we saw was this sign in the courtyard. “A Meal Without Wine is Called Breakfast.” Yes.
Location and Clientele
Mas d’Augustine is situated near all kinds of interesting sites such as the town of Uzès, Saint Quentin la Poterie, Pont du Gard, Côtes du Rhône vineyards etc. Despite this, Mas d’Augustine is the kind of place where it’s impossible not to relax. With a minimum stay of 2 nights and no children between the ages of 2 and 16, the property attracts holidaying couples. We noticed that the other guests are the type of people to help out, and not expected to be waited on. The atmosphere is simultaneously convivial and private.
Gary gave us a quick tour of the property before we were left to our complimentary bottle of rosé on the terrace.
A great way to unwind and settle in. This is also where the copious breakfast is served. Jane cooks eggs according to your desire, a rarity in a French B&B.
In the garden, there’re fig and olive trees. At breakfast, we had rather large helpings of Jane’s homemade fig jam. There’re enough figs to go around as all the other guests were elated to find themselves picking enormous violet figs at this time of year.
The heated pool. Robin and I parked ourselves here for the majority of our stay. Ours was a jaunt for relaxing, not exploring. Across an olive orchard behind the pool is located Jane’s ‘potager’ or veg patch. It was a treat to see Gary going back and forth seemingly all day picking fresh vegetables for our dinner straight from the garden.
The Kitten
A highlight of Robin and I’s stay was, I have to admit, the energetic kitten. Gary’s daughter came home, much to his annoyance, with the the little thing in her arms. Well, he has made himself at home ever since! There was no end to the cuteness of this mischievous thing running around.
I couldn’t pick which kitten picture…forgive me!
Dining at Mas d’Augustine
Another reason that I picked Mas d’Augustine for our short stay is that I liked the idea of the poolside bistro. Jane makes everything from scratch and cooks all manner of cuisines for your delight. At breakfast, Gary announced that by special request of another guest, we would share a bbq meal instead. This was not the first communal meal that guests and owners had shared in the same week. We were told that we’d be in for a treat!
Before our meal, it was to be champagne and a game of boules/pétanque. Did I mention that I like this place?
Concentrate!
Taking the tally. Notice the kitten looking on in the corner.
Perched carafes of wine waiting for us on the set table. Don’t they look inviting?…
For our meal, we had a mix of fresh salad, bbq salmon, pork, and beef. This was family style and oh my was it delicious!
Jane and Gary can cater for any occasion and usually cook a full bistro menu or table d’hôte on at least 5 nights per week in the peak season.
Robin looking pretty happy!
This was our intimate group including Gary’s son as well as some of their friends.
The finale!: apple Tarte Tatin as well as a pavlova with 2 varieties of homemade cinnamon ice-cream as well as lime sorbet. Here’s the chefs, Jane and Gary, serving.
Could there be a more perfect scene to finish off the evening? The clouds parted just as we were turning in to reveal the moon over the pool.
Mas d’Augustine
There are 5 rooms at Mas d’Augustine. The rooms are available during spring, summer, and autumn; prices fluctuate accordingly.
It’s possible to rent the entire Mas for your family and friends. Children are welcome if you rent the entire Mas. You’ll receive one room free (20% discount) if the entire house is rented for at least 3 days. This is a great idea for any kind of celebration.
Jane and Gary welcome small weddings for up to 40 guests at the property. There’s space to accommodate 10 people; otherwise, Jane and Gary will help find accommodation in the nearby village and even transportation.
For more information on rates and any other queries you might have about Mas d’Augustine, contact Jane and Gary directly. They have a very convenient online booking system on their site.
Check out reviews for Mas d’Augustine on TripAdvisor; there isn’t one bad one! I’m not surprised.
What a wonderful place!!! Such an oasis. Hope you get to go back for a treat. That kitten is adorable!
So glad you’ve discovered Mas d’Augustine, too. Love your photos. They tried to give me the kitten when he first arrived. Now they’re glad I didn’t walk away with him!
haha he’s such a cutie!