Mediterranean Ecology Research Observatory for Practical Skills

The Centre

The Château du Fraissinet is a historical building, dating from the 1600’s and set in 2.5 hectares of parkland, meadows and riverine forest. The grounds are surrounded by mixed Mediterranean woodland and border the river Gardon d’Ales. At times throughout its history, the Château has made use of the adjacent river as a mill, and has also acted as a farm producing sweet chestnuts. Many of these ancient trees remain in the surrounding woodland.

Accommodation

Within the Château du Fraissinet are six “gîtes”, providing comfortable independent accommodation for groups of up to 30 people in total. Each gîte is complete with bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchenettes plus areas for socialising and relaxing.

On-site facilities

The centre is complete with all the facilities needed to host field courses on-site. In the Chateau building itself, you will have access to teaching areas (an indoor-classroom and large outdoor covered terrace), a laboratory space and computer facilities.

Outside there are communal areas for relaxation: terraces, outdoor green spaces and the Bio-UVC-Ozone swimming pool, which is available from May onwards. The pool has been designed to use water purification methods that minimise the use of chemicals and maintain naturally clean water.

Groups on field courses also have access to habitats contained in the grounds: meadows, woodland and freshwater habitats.

Catering

Each gîte is equipped with its own kitchenette, so can be used for self-catering if visitors wish to arrange their own meals. However, a variety of options can be organised, up to full board, making use of local produce and suppliers.

For group meals, the covered terrace and classroom can be used for shared dining.

Getting here

Below are the driving times from the closest arrival points: