What is a Gite
In my dictionary a gîte (pronounced jeet) is defined as a home; shelter. A gîte rural is defined as a (country) holiday cottage.
Technically speaking to be called a gite the owner must live close by in order to provide help, assistance and a warm welcome to guests. Gites are generally old farm workers cottages or converted outbuildings and barns within the proximity of the owners' principal residence. The term gite nowadays encompasses most forms of holiday cottage and even holiday flats or apartments.
Gites are very popular for affordable French self-catering holidays. Gites are fully-furnished and equipped for self-catering. There are over 55,000 gites registered in France.
Six classes of 'gite' are defined by Gîtes de France,
- Gîte Rural
- Offers self-catering accommodation located in the countryside, by the sea, or in the mountains. The gite is completely self contained with one or more bedrooms, a lounge or dining room, a kitchen and bathroom facilities.
- Chambres d'Hôtes
- Bed and Breakfast (B&B) the French way. Stay as a guest in a private home with a full breakfast provided. Some hosts offer Table d'Hôtes which provide either full or half board. If Table d'Hôtes is not available there is usually a local restaurant available for evening meals.
- Gîtes d'Enfants
- Holidays for children. During the school holidays host families provide lodging for children of various ages with a wide variety of activities. Children's gites are regulated and inspected to ensure a safe an secure environment for each child.
- Gîtes d'Etape
- Stopover and holiday getaways off the beaten track for groups of walkers or cyclists. The English equivalent is most probably a youth hostel.
- Chalets-Loisirs
- A complex of wooden cottages set in the countryside providing various activities, such as, fishing, horse-riding, archery, cycling.
- Camping
- Where to pitch a tent or park a camper van. All the usual leisure facilities are provided, with the better sites including nurseries, games rooms, swimming pools, etc.
Gites are encouraged by the local tourist board and planning authorities as they attract investment and tourism.
All gites owners are required to ensure that their gites are safe and comply with the necessary rules, regulations and insurance requirements.
For an excellent example of three gites rural with children's activities for a perfect family holiday see http://www.brittany-holiday-gites.com
