Maison de l'Avoine

About this property

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.

In Tarn-et-Garonne, near the border of Lot, you can enjoy stunning views of the valleys and rolling hills, which is why this region is known as the ‘Tuscany of France’.

There’s a local village just over 5km away which has a lovely small supermarket as well as a handful of restaurants and you can pick up dairy products from nearby farmers and fresh bread and pastries from one of the two village boulangeries.

This region offers a wealth of activities. Golf-lovers can be challenged by the beautiful nine-hole course only ten minutes away whilst cycling lovers can follow stunning routes through the surrounding countryside (electric bikes can also be arranged locally). There’s canoeing on nearby rivers for all abilities as well as horse-riding, tennis and karting in the area. It goes without saying that there are also many glorious walks across the wonderful landscapes.   

For days out exploring, the beautiful and historic town of Cahors (31km) is just over half an hour away. The twice weekly Farmer’s market is a delight with all sorts of wonderful produce from foie gras and truffles to Quercy melons. Wander through the pretty old lanes, cross the Pont Valentré bridge which is listed as a unesco World Heritage site and explore many other places of historical importance. In the height of the summer there are boats along the River Lot to St-Cirq-Lapopie, one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’.

Wine-lovers will appreciate the marvellous Cahors vineyards where you can sample some of the world’s finest wines such as Syrah and Malbec varieties. Wine-tastings and vineyard visits can of course be arranged.

Montauban (35km), to the south, is another great town to visit with its grand square and cafes, pretty old town, interesting museums and lovely walks along the Canal de Montech. Moissac (28km), on the Santiago de Compostela route, on the banks of the River Tarn, is also alive with history with its famous 12th century abbey and cloisters and a great market at the weekend.  

There are many other villages and towns within a short distance, many of which have charming Farmer's markets or brocantes, delightful shops selling wonderful local produce and excellent restaurants. Highlights include Montcuq (20km), known for its Cathar history and amazing Sunday morning market as well as historic Puy-l'Évêque (47km) perched above the River Lot with lovely boat tours in the summer.

If you are wanting to explore even further afield then the beautifully preserved town of Rocamadour (90km) is just over an hour away whilst Dordogne villages such as La Roque-Gageac (90km), Domme (87km) and Monpazier (76km) make perfect day trips.

Accommodation

Villa Interior

Ground Floor

-    Living room with fireplace and open-plan kitchen-diner, fully equipped including dishwasher, stove, oven, microwave, fridge, coffee maker and Nespresso machine
-    2 x double bedrooms
-    Bathroom with bath and shower
-    Separate WC

First Floor

-    Master bedroom with double bed and bathroom with bath, shower and WC
-    Double bedroom with shower and WC

Bedrooms can also be made up as twins on request

Outside Grounds

-    Swimming pool (10mx4m) with safety alarm, open mid-April to mid-September
-    Covered patio and outdoor kitchen
-    Various terraces 
-    Boules pitch
-    13 hectares of grounds

Facilities

-    Wi-Fi
-    Heating
-    Satellite TV
-    DVD player
-    Sound system
-    Washing machine/dryer