History lives and breathes at this 14th century house in Midi-Pyrénées. A winding lane through a dairy farm delivers you to this mas, an achingly charming retreat to simpler times in Aveyron. The original stone walls aren’t just a facade; inside, the rough-hewn kitchen and stairs in the tower testify to the years that have passed. Climb up past the tiny chapel to the lookout tower, where the rolling hills unfurl beneath you.

Nods to the past are everywhere, from the medieval-style art on the walls to the antique sewing machine in one of the bedrooms. Even the modernised bathrooms have walls of rough stone. The formal dining room recalls a moodier time, with stone walls and floors, heavy wooden doors, and intricate textiles. For some time in the sun, head out to the stone patio shaded by the trees and make the most of the glorious swimming pool. 

The nearest village is Auzits, a 5-minute drive away, but you'll want to head a little further to Firmi or Cransac for supplies. Natural beauty is everywhere - if you're up for an hour's drive, consider the caverns at Pech-Merle. The nearest town of note is Rodez, 32km away - try the fouace (a sweet bread) for breakfast and pick up a wealth of delicious regional produce at the twice-weekly market before returning to your historic holiday home.

In the rolling countryside of Aveyron, Mas De Beauce is set in a little hamlet in a rural location around half an hour from Rodez. Whether you're a lover of history, food, or the great outdoors, this remote region promises a rich experience.

Access to Mas De Beauce is via a working dairy farm. The herd are taken to pastures nearby out of sight to graze by day. There are, however, two donkeys who call the property home. Their names are Paco and Rabanne, a mother and son who are both very friendly and gregarious!

From lively farmer’s markets bursting with fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and handcrafted pottery to the bakeries of Firmi and Cransac, both a 10-minute drive away, filling the air with the scent of warm baguettes, every day brings a new delight across this region. For those who appreciate fine wine, the nearby vineyards of Marcillac-Vallon (15km) offer tastings of their renowned reds/

Beyond the local culinary delights, this area is a stone’s throw from some of Aveyron’s most enchanting sights. The medieval village of Belcastel (23km), perched above the river, is a picturesque masterpiece, while Conques (21km), with its stunning Romanesque church of Ste Foy, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and lovers of architecture alike.

Venture a little further, and you'll find the timeless charm of Villefranche-de-Rouergue (42km), a 13th-century bastide town centred around a striking church tower, or the romantic setting of Najac (67km), where a single medieval street leads to an imposing fortress high above the Aveyron River.

Rodez (32km), with its impressive Gothic cathedral and fascinating Soulages Museum, offers a blend of history and contemporary art, making it an essential stop for culture seekers.

For those drawn to nature, the Aveyron offers a wealth of outdoor adventures. Explore quiet country lanes by foot or bike, or take to the water with canoeing and kayaking on the Lot and Célé rivers. Swim in secluded spots, fish in the nearby lakes, or, for the thrill-seekers, try water skiing in Cajarc, less than an hour by car from your holiday home.

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