Barn and Garden Retreat in the Gentle Jaur Valley of Nature Reserve Haut-Languedoc
Tucked into the quiet hamlet of Ardouane, La Funky Barn is a retro-chic retreat where mountain air meets mid-century flair.
Here, the rhythm slows: mornings begin with birdsong and light across the hills, evenings end by the fire or under the stars.
Whether you're seeking a private studio for two, a ground-floor atelier for family or friends, or a wild riverside garden beneath the stars, this is your base for slow mornings, long walks, and deep rest.
Crafted from stone, wood, and light, every space blends retro flair with the calm of the surrounding hills. Each space blends natural materials, warm design, and the freedom of the Haut-Languedoc.
Three unique stays. One soulful place.
What Makes Us (so) Special
Everything for a truly unique mountain-valley retreat
Light, Space & Soul
Each dwelling is shaped by stone, wood, and rhythm — light-filled open spaces with views of the Caroux hills.
Designed for Rest
Quality beds, soft linens, and interiors made for quiet mornings and peaceful evenings.
Real Kitchens, Real Meals
Every kitchen is equipped for cooking — from simply reheating to room to chop, pour, taste, and linger.
Easy Arrival, Slow Departure
Free parking just behind Ardouane's old church … and that feeling you never want to leave.
Nature All Around
Wake up to the scent of pine and thyme, hear the Bureau river murmur below, and breathe in the Haut-Languedoc air.
Warmth & Atmosphere
Stone walls and floors keep cool in summer; a pellet stove or quiet radiators warm you in winter — every season finds its way to hold you.
Discover La Funky Barn
A glimpse of life at La Funky Barn
Explore the Region
Ardouane, Riols • Parc Haute Languedoc • Hérault, France
The Region
Ardouane sits at the gateway to extraordinary natural beauty and authentic regional culture. From the dramatic rock formations of Le Chemin des Légendes and Le Sentier des Mille Marches to the historic bridge in Olargues, you're surrounded by landscapes that inspire. Summer brings vibrant night markets where locals and visitors gather under mountain skies — the perfect blend of adventure and community.
The Village of Ardouane
Ardouane is a tiny hamlet of authentic stone houses nestled in the Parc Haute Languedoc. With its narrow lanes, mountain views, and commitment to preserving dark skies, it offers a peaceful retreat far from modern noise — yet perfectly positioned at the heart of the Voie Verte Passa Païs.
Nature
On your doorstepLac de Vésoles is easy to reach, with a nice 6–7 km walking loop around it. More active walks: Gorges d'Héric, Mille Marches, Caroux‑Éspinouse massif. The rivers Orb and Jaur are within easy reach.
Cycling
0 kmExcellent for cyclists and walkers, the Voie Verte / Passa Païs greenway passes right by Ardouane → ideal for overnight stop, safe storage of bikes, rest, meals, showers, nature.
Wine
28-35 kmHills of heat, stone, wind — and some of the most characterful wines of the South. Just over the ridge lies Saint-Chinian, a landscape of sun-baked schist and wild garrigue. Expect deep reds, structured and aromatic, touched by thyme, rosemary and the summer wind. A little further west, Faugères is more secretive, darker, more mineral. To the south-east, the spectacular village of Minerve guards the entrance to the Minervois. Here the wines shift: rounder, warmer, more Mediterranean, with beautiful rosés and whites.
Olargues
12 kmClassified as one of France's most beautiful villages with charming shops and restaurants
Approximately 1 hour from Béziers • 1.5 hours from Montpellier Airport • 45 minutes to Castres • 15 minutes to Saint Pons de Thomières shops
Quick swim at the beach? 🏖️ Narbonne plage is only 80 minutes away.
Get in Touch
We'd love to welcome you to La Funky Barn