Description
When you are gazing at the mesmerising views of the surrounding valleys and hills you’ll realise why this area is known as the ‘Tuscany of France’. Hear the distant sound of church bells ringing or birds chirping in this beautiful region where the pace of life is incredibly relaxed.
The kind and hospitable owners, who live in their own château on the vast estate, have restored Maison de l’Avoine with great love and care, retaining much of its traditional charm alongside modern amenities and beautiful style. The open-plan living room and kitchen-diner has characterful features such as exposed stone work and a log-burning fire as well as elegant furnishings and contemporary fittings. Each of the four bedrooms offer a sanctuary of peace whilst bathrooms have been handsomely designed.
Spend lazy days by the glistening swimming pool and preparing delicious lunches in the summer kitchen using ingredients picked up from local markets. As evening approaches, have a relaxed game of boules followed by a glass of Malbec from a nearby Cahors vineyard on one of the charming outdoor terraces taking in the wonderful vistas around you in the warmth of the evening sun. The owners have a passion for cooking and can prepare hearty meals for you or if you wish to venture out to a local restaurant they are happy to be asked to babysit.
As you explore the region and admire the landscapes of undulating hills and summer sunflowers you will soon pick up on the slow way of life here where good food and fine local wine is appreciated. There are many local villages and towns which host atmospheric farmers markets such as Montcuq, Moissac and Montauban. You can also pick up fresh bread and pastries from the local village boulangerie as well as freshly laid eggs and local butter from nearby farms. Wine-lovers must visit some of the excellent vineyards around nearby Cahors which produce some of the world’s most famous wines.
Throughout both the Tarn-et-Garonne and Lot regions, there are also many miles of cycling trails as well as canoeing on nearby rivers, canalside walks and even a picturesque nine-hole golf course just minutes away. Enjoy summer boat trips on the River Lot in the historic city of Cahors, just over half an hour away or explore fascinating châteaux and pre-historic caves across this part of southern France.
The most adventurous could even drive as far as the villages of the Dordogne or the famous town of Rocamadour. That said, you may not wish to venture very far once you unwind into the calming way of life across this delightful region. /n Security deposit /n €500 paid via bank transfer to the owner before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection.
/n Arrival time /n 4.00 p.m. /n Departure time /n 10.00 a.m. /n Energy costs included? /n Yes. /n Heating costs included? /n Included from April to September. Extra €30 per day during all other months. /n Linen & towels included? /n Bed linen, bath and pool towels are included and changed once for stays over 7 nights. /n End of stay cleaning included? /n €100 paid on arrival in cash. Guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit.
/n Smoking Allowed? /n Outside only. /n Pets welcome? /n No. /n Changeover day /n Saturday. /n Minimum stay /n 7 nights. /n Internet access? /n Wi-Fi included. /n Tax /n French Visitors Tax payable locally in cash (typically costs €1-€3 per adult per night- please enquire if exact amount is required). /n Other Ts and Cs /n 1 Cot and 1 High-Chair are included. /n Other Ts and Cs /n The private unheated pool is open mid-April to mid-September (cooler months may not be suitable for swimming).
/n Other Ts and Cs /n The owner's pool (15mx5m) is heated and available on request from mid-April to mid-September. /n Other Ts and Cs /n Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed.
