Set on the side of a low hill on the edge of the historic forêt d’Eu, the garden at Basse Copette offers guests a truly tranquil location for a relaxing stay. Besides the many attractions in the vicinity, the gardens allow guests to enjoy a few garden games, a swim in a heated pool or to just sit back and take in the beautiful countryside.

The hillside garden has been landscaped in such a way that the gentle slope is cut in two by a terrace. It is on this terrace that the heated pool is situated. It is definitely sited in the best spot, at once away from both the farmhouse and the cottage and with the best views over the Bresle Valley. The pool is bean-shaped, measuring 8 by 5 metres, and is set within a wooden deck that measures 11 by 8 metres; and is heated from May to September. Besides having some of the property’s best views, the pool is quite a sun trap, getting full sunshine all day. There are ample sun loungers and chairs.

Just above the pool deck is a boules pit (15 x 2 metres), which for those who have not played provides great sociable fun. Above the terrace with the pool and boules pit is a part of the garden I am starting to plant fruit trees in, leaving part to grow wild to encourage insects and birds to continue thriving in the area. At the very top is a 3m by 3m gazebo – with absolutely spectacular views up and down the valley. Watching and hearing birds of prey such as the kestrel swooping about is a real joy. This is also a great place to sit and enjoy a book on almost any day of the year – I know because I do it a lot.

At the other end of the garden from the swimming pool, just to the left as you enter the property, is a wonderful mini orchard, with a cherry tree and 6 different varieties of apple tree. The first ripens at the end of July, and the others follow until about the end of October/November. Set amongst the apple trees is an outdoor chess board and chess set – this is a great spot to contemplate your next move.

The farmhouse and the cottage both have their own terraces with tables and chairs, and given they are far enough apart from each other – there is never a sense of being in someone else’s space. And remember, I only take two people in the B&B and 6 people in the cottage – I may take more but ONLY if BOTH accommodations are taken by the same party.

From Basse Copette there are a number of walks and cycle rides – into the forest opposite, or along the agricultural land and up on to the top if the hill in the natural forest behind the house. A walk or a cycle ride out along the paths between the fields to the head of the Bresle Valley in the morning or the evening is a great way to start or end your day. Come back to a fresh breakfast or sundowners on your terrace.