Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: October 2025

Booking & Payments

How do I book the gîte?

You can book directly through our website for the best rates – just click “Book Now” and choose your dates. You'll receive instant confirmation by email.

What is your cancellation policy?

You can cancel for free up to 30 days before arrival. Cancellations made less than 30 days before check-in are non-refundable.

What are the payment terms?

A 10% deposit is due at booking. The remaining balance is due 30 days before arrival.

What’s the security deposit policy?

We place a €300 pre-authorization on your card 1 day before arrival. This is released automatically 7 days after departure, subject to inspection.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept major credit and debit cards. Bank transfer may be available on request – just get in touch!

Is my payment secure?

Absolutely. All payments are processed securely via our trusted booking system.

Do you offer a loyalty discount for returning guests?

Yes! Leave us a review on Google and our website after your stay, and you’ll unlock a discount code for your next visit.

Is there a tourist tax to pay?

Yes – the local tourist tax is either included in your booking or paid on arrival, depending on how you booked.

Can I get a receipt or invoice for my stay?

Of course! Let us know during or after booking and we’ll email you an invoice.

Arrival & Check-in

What time is check-in and check-out?

Check-in is from 16:00. Check-out is by 10:00 on your departure day. If you’d like to request a late check-out, just ask — we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

How do I access the gîte when I arrive?

We’ll send you an email before your arrival with full directions and a key code. If you're arriving after dark, we can leave the outside light on — just let us know your ETA.

Will someone be there to meet us?

Not usually – we offer self check-in so you can arrive at your convenience. We live on the property if you need anything.

What if I arrive early?

If you arrive before check-in time, you’re welcome to park on site. We can’t guarantee early access to the gîte, but we’ll let you know if it’s ready sooner.

Where can I park?

There’s secure parking in the gated driveway of the main house just behind the gîte. If you’re bringing more than 2 vehicles, let us know and we will make room.

How do I contact you when I arrive?

The fastest way to reach us is by WhatsApp at +33 (0)7 67 55 45 14. We’re usually just a few steps away and happy to help.

Can I arrive late at night?

Yes – just let us know in advance. We’ll leave a light on and your key code will work any time after 16:00.

House Rules & Pets

Is smoking allowed in the gîte?

No – smoking is strictly prohibited indoors. Ashtrays are provided outside for your use.

Are pets allowed?

Yes – well-behaved pets are very welcome! Please clean up after them and keep them off the beds and sofas.

Can I leave my dog alone in the gîte?

Only if they’re calm and crate-trained. Please don’t leave pets unattended if they might bark, scratch, or damage furniture.

Do you provide anything for pets?

Yes – we can provide a water bowl. Let us know in advance if you’re bringing a pet so we can prepare accordingly.

What are the quiet hours?

Quiet hours start at midnight. Please be respectful of other guests and our animals.

What should I do if something breaks?

Please just let us know – accidents happen! We’ll do our best to fix or replace things quickly and without fuss.

Do I need to remove my shoes indoors?

Yes please – we provide a shoe rack by the door. It helps us keep the gîte clean and cosy for everyone.

Cancellation & Refunds

What is your cancellation policy?

All paid prepayments are non-refundable.

What happens if I cancel within 30 days of arrival?

Unfortunately, the full amount is non-refundable at that point. We recommend travel insurance in case of unexpected changes.

Can I reschedule my booking instead of cancelling?

Possibly – we’ll always try to be flexible. Contact us as early as possible and we’ll do what we can.

What if I need to leave early?

We’re sorry, but no refunds are available for early departures unless previously agreed.

Do you offer travel insurance?

No – we don’t sell insurance, but we strongly recommend that you take out a policy when booking.

Amenities & Property Info

Is there Wi-Fi at the gîte?

Yes – free Wi-Fi is available throughout the gîte. The network name and password are provided in your welcome email and printed in the kitchen.

Do you have a washing machine?

Yes – there’s a washing machine and clothes airer available for guest use in the gite.

Is there a hairdryer?

Yes – there’s a hairdryer in each bedroom.

Is linen provided?

Yes – all bed linen, towels, bath mats, and tea towels are provided.

Do you have a highchair or travel cot?

Yes – we have a highchair, changing mat and travel cot (with linen) available at no extra charge. Please request these when booking so we can have them ready for you.

What’s in the kitchen?

The kitchen is fully equipped with crockery, glasses, pans, cooking utensils, dishwasher, oven, hob, coffee machines (filter + pod), toaster, microwave, and fridge-freezer. We also provide oil, salt & pepper. Tea, coffee, sugar & milk are provided in your welcome basket.

Local Area & Directions

How far is the gîte from Coutances?

We’re just 5 minutes by car from the centre of Coutances — close to shops, restaurants, and the cathedral.

How do I find the gîte?

You’ll receive full directions and a What3Words link in your welcome email. The exact location is also pinned on Google Maps.

Can I walk into town?

It’s walkable, but we recommend driving for comfort — the country lanes have no pavement and limited lighting after dark.

Where is the nearest supermarket?

Carrefour Market in Coutances is a 5 minute drive away. There’s also Lidl, Intermarché, and Leclerc nearby. The local bar/restaurant in Nicorps: Auberge de Brothelande has a small epicerie section for essentials

Are there any good restaurants nearby?

Yes – our local favourite is Auberge de Brothelande, just a few minutes away. We also include a list of recommended places to eat in your welcome guide.

How close are the beaches?

Hauteville-sur-Mer is around 20 minutes by car, with other beaches like Gouville and Agon-Coutainville also nearby.

Families, Groups & Accessibility

Is the gîte suitable for families with children?

Yes – we welcome families! We can provide a travel cot, high chair, children’s cutlery and plastic plates, and even have llamas to meet (supervised by us) in the garden.

Do you accept large groups?

Yes – the gîte sleeps up to 10 people. It’s ideal for multi-generational stays, reunions, and friend getaways.

Is the gîte wheelchair accessible?

The ground floor is step-free and includes a downstairs bedroom and walk-in shower with handrails and a fold-down shower seat. Please contact us to discuss individual accessibility needs.

Do you have baby equipment?

Yes – we can provide a travel cot (with full linen), high chair and changing mat. Just let us know when booking.

Is there outdoor space for children?

Yes – there’s a private garden, outdoor games, and space to run around safely. We also have chickens and llamas the kids will love.

Contact, Emergencies & Reviews

How do I contact you during my stay?

The fastest way to reach us is via WhatsApp at +33 (0)7 67 55 45 14. You can also email [email protected] — we live on site and are usually close by.

What should I do in an emergency?

Call 112 for emergency services (EU-wide). You’ll find more details in the printed Welcome Guide at the gîte.

Is there a vet nearby?

Yes – we use Clinique Vétérinaire de La Sienne in Gavray-sur-Sienne, about 15 minutes away. Details are in the Welcome Guide.

Where can I leave a review?

We love guest feedback! You can leave a review on our website and on Google.

Do you offer loyalty discounts?

Yes – if you leave a review on both Google and our website, you’ll unlock a special discount code for your next direct booking. See our promotions page for details of this and others