Gite is a French word that simply means shelter. It has however become a collective noun for self-catering accommodation in France.
The defining feature is that they can be of any type, from a house, boat on a canal; to chateaux set in their own grounds.
Standards vary but all should contain a kitchen and enough cooking equipment for the number of occupants. By the same token prices can vary tremendously depending on the popularity of the region, the rate of occupation and the facilities offered, (eg.swimming pool, bed linens, towels, availability of such things as bicycles, etc.)
One feature that is sometimes surprising, particularly, for visitors from outside Europe, is that cleaning is not usually included in the price and there is an expectation that the departing guests will leave the Gite in the same condition of cleanliness in which it was found. This is one way in which prices have been kept relatively realistic and frequent gite holidaymakers will expect to clean after them. Of course, like here at Le Clos des Guyons, gite owners are increasingly offering a cleaning option to those guests who do not wish to spend a couple of hours cleaning on the morning of departure.
In the same way sheets and towels were not commonly supplied except as an option but, with increasing international reservations, you will find that it is now common place but by no means universal. Always check beforehand.
Many national and international companies offer gites for hire, indeed, particularly in the UK, there are many holiday companies specialising in gites.
Legally, at least in theory all tourist accommodation in France should be registered and authorised. The French standard is set by the government owned agency, "Gites de France". Rigorous standards are applied and they are one of the few who actually carry out a physical inspection, awarding a number of, "epis", (ears of corn), based on the standard achieved. 3 epis is a very high standard indeed confirming a comprehensive level of equipage and more than acceptable levels of cleanliness and decor. The 3 épis category is equivilent to the, "Luxe", (Luxury), standard awarded by local Tourist Offices. An additional épi is normally only given to a chateau set in its own extensive grounds.
We do not wish to imply that there are are not many gites outside the ambit of Gite de France who offer perfectly acceptable, indeed excellent standards but, as we have implied, seeing the "Gite de France" logo does at least certify that the accommodation has been physically inspected by an objective assessor. In addition all "Gite de France", properties are properly registered with their local tourist boards and chambres de commerces and are therefore operating legally and within the law.