What is a Yurt?

A yurt is a portable, felt or canvas covered, wood lattice-framed dwelling structure historically used by nomads and others in the steppes and wilds of Central Asia. The very word yurt is originally from the Turkic word that means "dwelling place" in the sense of a home or "homeland". See picture right for traditional Central Asian layout little changed from the days of Ghengis Khan.

Once erected the wooden yurt frame is covered with pieces of felt which are strapped in place. In many cases canvas is used to cover the felt and on top of this a cotton sun top may be added. In Europe, modern yurts tend to be canvas covered for comfort. The frame is tied together with one or more ropes, webbing or straps. The shape of the yurt roof varies regionally - in Mongolia they have, almost exclusively, a conical shape with straight roof poles. Central Asian yurts roofs are normally curved giving more domed shape and use bent roof-poles.

Eco Friendly

Our Yurts are made from natural materials obtained in a eco firendly way from renewable resources. We prefer the Central Asian or Kyrgyz style as it offers a more pleasing shape whilst remaining a traditional design. Our Yurts are hand made by British craftsmen and each yurt can take up to 2 months to complete. We believe that sustainable tourism will play an essential part in protecting our countryside and the lifestyle of the local inhabitants for future generations.

Yurt locations

Our Kyrgyz style yurts are located in the heart of the Provençial countryside in the small Haute Alpes village of La Motte du Caire.

Staying in one of our yurts is the perfect way to enjoy the stunning Provencial mountain scenery, allowing you to get back to nature without forgoing the usual niceties you would wish for on your holiday. The yurts are located on a quiet campsite with toilets, hot shower and laundry facilities etc. There is a swimming pool and tennis courts on site and shops, bar and restaurants in the village 200m walk away and other facilities nearby.

Provence in Southern France is an almost perfect holiday destination. It has the benefit of a mediterranean climate set in a spectacular Alpine environment. For people who enjoy outdoor activities there are plenty on offer ranging from walking and climbing to pony trekking, via feratta, mountainbiking and much more. The Alpes de Haute Provence is the perfect place to unwind and relax, and soak up the sights and sounds of nature right on your doorstep.

You want to enjoy a simple back to nature experience but you do not want to "rough it" camping in the conventional manner with sleeping bags and camp mats. Our yurts come pleasantly furnished with beds, quilts and furnishings to make your holiday comfortable. There are simple cooking facilities for breakfasts and for making more elaborate meals should you tire of the areas many restaurants, serving wholesome Provençial food.