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Agîte orgite (French pronunciation:[ʒit]) is, typically, a holiday rental home inFrance, but there are many interpretations of the term 'gîte'. They range from a gîtes d'etape — a hostel, for walkers and cyclists — to a gîte rural, aholiday home in the country available for rent, often anaccessory dwelling unit. The termgîte originally meant quite simply a form of shelter. Gîtes d'etape, which resemblemountain huts oryouth hostel, usually provide meals and have dormitory accommodation.[1] They are found alongGrande Randonnée long distance trails. The holiday homes type are fully furnished and equipped for self-catering. Some owners may also provide meals.[2]
It is often suggested that a gite is a property whose owner lives nearby and can provide a warm welcome to guests, but the word is frequently used (or misused) in a much wider sense.[3] Gîtes are generally old farmworkers' cottages or converted outbuildings and barns. This type of holiday accommodation is sometimes regarded as "basic"' in terms of facilities; however, most gîtes are generally very well kept, and a growing number will have fully fitted kitchens, en-suite bathrooms, TV, DVD, and access to a swimming pool or other sporting activities. The termgîte encompasses most forms of holiday cottage and even holiday flats or apartments. Many gîtes will also accept pets.
Some gîtes do not providelinen as standard, so many gîte holidaymakers take their linen with them. However, many gîte owners do include linen at least as an option.
Gîtes are encouraged by the local tourist board and planning authorities since they attract investment and tourism.
Gîte owners are required to ensure that their gîtes are safe and comply with the necessary rules, regulations, and insurance requirements.
In French-speaking regions of Europe, there are several associations of gîte owners.
Gîtes de France is an organization where people can rent gîtes in France.
The noun "gite" is an antiquatedpast participle of the verb gésir, meaning "to lie down." It is descended from the Latin wordjacere, with the same meaning. Under theFrench Orthographic Reform of 1990, the official spelling was changed to "gite." TheAcadémie française considers both spellings acceptable, and the older spelling continues to be standard.[4]
