travelling-blogger

comments

It is perhaps not the destnination you would immediately associate with an authentic Tibetan experience, but this quirky B&B offers just that - in the South of France.

Holidaymakers can see what life is like for a Buddhist monk, all in the middle of the French countryside, less than two hours from Toulouse.

With its oriental decorations and secluded spot amongst the trees you could be forgiven for thinking the Nest of the Red Dragon was a Tibetan creation, but it is actually owned by a Frenchman and an American.

Crimson retreat: The unusual B&B is built in the style of a Buddhist temple, but is actually located in the South of France

Room with a view: The unusual temple looks out over the Haut-Languedoc natural park

The bizarre B&B houses tourists in simple wooden accommodation with a balcony extending from the cliff side, an outdoor shower and incredible views over the Haut-Languedoc natural park.

Or for those seeking a more luxurious break there's even a sun terrace and private pool.

Just as the builders of Buddhist temples would have done, owners New Yorker Liam Salter and Frenchman Thomas Lestelle sourced all the materials for the Nest locally and before building it by hand themselves using chestnut trees from the nearby forest.

Unusual experience: Guests say it is like they have left France and stepped into an entirely different country

In contrast to the décor of the traditional houses in nearby villages, the ornaments filling the master bedroom and twin room for children are all treasures brought back from their time living in Asia.

Liam and Thomas will even cook you an authentic Asian meal in the Tibetan kitchen while you get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with the surrounding nature.

Although the Nest has been a private retreat for the last ten years, the temple-like property is now open to paying guests from £120 a night.

Making a splash: The B&B has just opened tot he public and allows holidaymakers to experience life like a Buddhist month

Going for gold: With traditional Tibetan decor and outdoor showers shaped like elephants, guests will feel a world away from the South of France

Take a dip: While the B&B may seem basic, it has plenty of additions such a a pool tucked in among the foliage

Liam said: 'The first thing people say when they come in is always: 'We are in another country'.

'It's often people looking to escape who come and visit but our clientele also includes people coming for a few days of love and romance.

'The project started when we quit the rat race because we wanted to get away from administrative work.

'We decided then to work for ourselves, building our home, our furniture, etc., etc., only taking small jobs to get by.

Breaking with tradition: The Tibetan temple-style B&B is nestled in the French countryside near a picture-perfect village

Inner peace: The spectacular setting is worthy of a Buddhist retreat

'Thomas and I have travelled a lot in Asia and Africa and at the beginning it was just a place for friends to stay inspired by our travels.

'Now we feel lucky to be welcoming people to a different kind of South of France experience.'

Despite being open less than a month, Liam and Thomas have been overwhelmed by the interest from prospective guests.

Jess Waters from QuirkyAccom.com handles bookings from the UK for the property.

She said: 'The nest is an exotic and fabulous Asian temple with views to die for.

'It really has the feel of being far from its location in the South of France.

'It is always thrilling to find somewhere so unique and inspirational like this.'