luxury real estate for sale Terraube, France

An 18th-century chateau with outhouses and a swimming pool in 14 hectares of grounds near the town of Lectoure in France’s Gers department. You reach the 14-hectare property from a country road that edges its west side. A low stone wall protects a front section of the grounds where many outhouses stand. A shady path lined with towering horse chestnuts crosses a grassy expanse and leads up to the chateau’s main entrance. On the south side, a long separate building made of rubble stone demarcates this front section and marks the edge of the property. Storehouses lie at the sides of the grounds. These structures have been partly renovated to become a caretaker’s lodge and a workshop space, but much of the roofing on them needs to be restored. On the north side of the grounds, a small house with a dovecote and walls of repointed exposed stonework stands among farming annexes that include vast barns and other buildings. On the east side of this front section, a two-storey building with a tiled roof separates the old farm complex from the chateau, giving the latter complete privacy and calm. The chateau lies beyond a tall wrought-iron gate that stands in a covered carriage entrance. The edifice dates back to the Middle Ages and the time when the lords of Armagnac reigned here. It was built in the centre of its grounds, surrounded by a gravel terrace. A chapel protrudes at a right angle to the main section at the chateau’s east end. And a wing of annexes with a covered carriage entrance extends at the edifice’s west end. This wing is flanked with an adjoining tower crowned with a windmill. A remarkable mechanism in this section brought running water to the property at the end of the 19th century. The mechanism was invented by Élie Coulange, the property’s owner at the time. An ornamental pond and stone pedestals supporting bronze vestals echo the typically 18th-century traits of the chateau’s south and east walls. These statues were ordered by the famous countess Marie-Jacqueline de Biran d'Armagnac. Beyond the ornamental garden, and hidden behind a hedge, lies a swimming pool with a clear view of the surrounding countryside. The grounds are as majestic as the edifice: the vast plot is punctuated with wells, water-filled moats and a wide range of age-old trees, including cedars that line a long path.

A chateau dating back to 1839 with large outhouses and 7 5 hectares of grounds, a few minutes from the town of Lectoure in France’s Gers department. A track leading to the property leaves a small country road on the hillside. A discreet spring covered with stones marks the entrance to the grounds. The chateau’s facade appears at the end of a drive shaded by tall, old trees. The edifice enjoys absolute privacy and calm. It looks out over a valley, in isolation from the rest of the world. You can admire several stunning vistas from the property. These views stretch to the town of Lectoure, perched on its rocky outcrop. The chateau is built on a large gravel terrace with a round ornamental stone pond. The building is rectangular and has an adjoining tower in the middle of its west elevation. It has four flours that can be seen from its east side, lower down. The top floor is a loft space. The edifice offers a liveable floor area of around 800m², spread between the ground floor and the first floor, which can be seen from the south driveway. The chateau was built in 1805. It is made of dressed stone, rendered with a beige lime coating. Its facade reflects the architectural traits of its era: 14 rectangular openings are arranged symmetrically around a central bay that stands out for its dressed stone and its double door that forms the main entrance. The quoins, cornices and door and window surrounds are made of exposed dressed stone. The building is crowned with a zinc and slate mansard roof with hipped ends, punctuated with three bull’s-eye windows on its south side, three on its north side, one on its east side and another one on its west side. The grounds are dotted with age-old trees and vast clearings. This wonderful outdoor space includes an isolated swimming pool, a dovecote, an old washing place and an Italian-style garden. The style of this Italian garden goes well with the chateau’s north elevation and brings out its elegance. At a lower level, there are two large rectangular outbuildings made of rubble stone. They face each other and can be reached via a separate drive on one side.

Barn conversion, traditional Gascon house & pool This property comprises not just one house but two; each with its own very different charm and style. The current owners having overseen the restoration of a beautiful stone barn; which provides additional accommodation, alongside the traditional Gascon home which they initially purchased. Both buildings share neatly tended landscaped gardens and a pool. There is also a large gravelled car-parking area for visitors. The property is located in the heart of Gascony in a small village within easy reach of the much-loved town of LECTOURE, with its weekly market, eclectic shops, restaurants and schools. This is a non-isolated property with a few quiet neighbouring houses on the other side of a rural lane. The gardens to the rear are not overlooked by any other property and there are lovely views of open countryside. The windows of both houses on the property overlook their own garden, where one feels absolutely private with no over view from any neighbours. For buyers seeking privacy but not wanting to live in a very isolated position, this property is perfect.

This substantial property sits at a close distance to the popular market towns of both Lectoure and Fleurance. In a highly sought after location, the property is utterly tranquil with no near neighbours and stunning views over the horizon to the Pyrenees which are in full view. The property is gated, with an electric gate opening onto a long private driveway leading to the property. At the bottom of the driveway there is a vast and spacious garage, with plenty of space for the family cars and bikes. The garage is spacious enough for ten vehicles and has a concrete floor and an electric door. To the front, the pool sits in an elevated position and is surrounded by a terrace forwith Mediterranean-style landscape gardens. In this part of the garden there is also a gravelled area for playing a Sunday afternoon game of Pétanque. To the side of the property a large and stone terrace flanked by stone walls opens out over the grounds with incredible views to the south and over the surrounding countryside. The gardens have a Mediterranean air, with olive trees, Cyprus and pine trees. The front section is mostly laid to gravel for ease, and by the side of the garage, there is an area for dry plants, ensuring the beauty of the garden during the hottest summers.

Boasting a prime location with far-reaching views in the heart of a highly sought-after Gascon village, this picturesque abode offers the perfect blend of rural tranquility and village life. Home to a family of three with a dog - this property is ideal as a main residence or as a holiday bolt-hole, with easy access to may countryside walks around the nearby countryside. We enter the property via a private courtyard whose ancient stone walls form an intimate and private space in which to entertain; the perfect miniature garden in which to display a collection of potted plants or in which to dine on a heady summer’s night. Small enough for easy maintenance, spacious enough for outdoor dining and relaxation in the sun, this area once comprised a first floor wooden terrasse which could potentially be re-instated in metal or wood. (Planning may be required). Certainly what this garden may lack in size, it gains in charm, being very much an additional reception-room in the summertime. From the stone courtyard we enter the house via a side door which opens onto a small hallway. Here there is a downstairs laundry room and a handy storage area. Shedding our coats, we turn to the spacious reception room which overlooks a tiny medieval street. The room is toasty warm, thanks the wood-burning stove installed by the current owners. Of note are the large glass windows which open onto the street from the reception room and allow a stream of sunlight into the room. The kitchen is a delightful area that has the “feel” of a multifunctional reception room, with a central moveable island, a dining-room area and a panoramic view of the valley to the north. The current owners would have fitted a second wood-burning stove into this room had they stayed. On the first floor an impressive master bedroom overlooks the tiny medieval village street. This fabulous room has an open-plan bathroom with a tub and sink. There is also a private ensuite WC for the parents. The family showroom shared by the other two first floor bedrooms sits in the middle of the landing. This room has a lovely view over the internal courtyard - and potentially with a rejig, one could position a bath tub in a prime position to enjoy the view. The two remaining bedrooms overlook the valley with far reaching views. One is currently used as a music room, the other a teenage bedroom : both are of a good size either as two children’s rooms - or perhaps one could be used as a study. However you choose to make use of the first floor bedrooms, the light is good and the views in both directions too. The top floor has a special surprise reserved for guests to the house. A hideaway in the eaves, a cosy nook in which to retreat, this room has the joyous playfulness of a secret den, tucked up high in the rooftop and oblivious to the stirrings of the world below. Guests who enjoy a quirky nest will feel safe and coddled by the intimate walls of this little hideaway. This room will appeal to anyone young of heart and remain entirely inaccessible to anyone who isn’t surefooted. Up on high, the bed is custom built on a platform. There is a small shower room in one corner- while WC is accessible on the first floor.

Located in the heart of the Gers, a few minutes from Lectoure and Agen, this old winery benefited from an exceptional renovation in 2021. With an area of 470sqm, it is located on an intimate plot of one hectare . Past the gate, a long avenue of cypress trees leads to the property. The uniqueness of this building is revealed little by little. The entrance impresses with its volumes and style. The renovation was carefully designed to respect and highlight the character of the property. Several volumes with a strong identity make up the living spaces. A living room with endless ceiling height is naturally extended by the kitchen. A second, more intimate living room also has its place. Numerous custom-made openings provide access to the various terraces, naturally extended by the park and the surrounding nature. A first sleeping area takes place on the ground floor, a guest suite and another bedroom are available. The upper floor is dedicated to rest, 3 suites including the master offer exceptional volumes and an impeccable finish. An office that can be transformed into a sixth bedroom completes the whole. The exterior is not left out, the land surrounds the property. In its center, a 20x5m heated swimming pool completes this property. All the services of this building create the perfect compromise between the charm of the old and contemporary comfort. Ideal place to live for a family or a second home. Agen airport 30 minutes away. Closed garage and buried wine cellar for oenophiles. Underfloor heating by heat pumps. Salt pool, heated and secure. Well with watering. Complete renovation: structural (frame and roof), insulation, electricity, plumbing and heating. Surrounding fields in organic farming. ENERGY CLASS: B / CLIMATE CLASS: A. Estimated average amount of annual energy expenditure for standard use, established based on energy prices for the year 2021: between EUR1,680 and EUR2,350 Information on the risks to which this property is exposed are available on the Géorisks website http://www.georisks.gouv.fr

A discreet medieval house, its outbuilding and walled garden in the centre of a historic town in the Gers region. The property is accessed from an alleyway running parallel to the main street of the village, a stone's throw from the cathedral and all shops and schools. Built protected from prying eyes, it is shielded by the front building, whose sober facade gives no hint of the distinctive character, which unfolds in the various rooms spread over its four floors. Facing the southern ramparts, it comprises a medieval tower acquired by the current inhabitants in a state of dilapidation in the 2000s, a garden on two levels and an outbuilding, part of which has been rebuilt in wood. The main building stands in a prominent position, accessed via a stone staircase, set back from a garden and terrace embellishing the southern facade. To the north, a narrow wing projects at right angles, overlooking a patio. This patio includes a well and is divided in two by a high wall. It is located in the centre of the various buildings in the central part of the old town and provides access to a cellar and a lavatory. Despite the proximity of buildings typical for medieval town centres, the dwelling enjoys absolute peace and quiet, with no visual disturbance from neighbours and a superb vista over the countryside stretching as far as the Pyrenees.

A house with a garden, patios, an outbuilding, a shop space and an apartment, nestled in the historical town of Lectoure in France’s Gers department. The edifice’s layout is typical of others in this town where buildings interlock with one another and stand around inner courtyards and gardens. The property extends from a main street on its north side, where you find the shop space and apartment, both currently rented out, to a secondary parallel street on its south side, where you enter a garage. It is made up of three distinct buildings that stand between two parallel streets. These sections are separated by outdoor spaces: a patio, a garden and terraces. The first building faces the main street. It has three floors with an unconverted loft space. Its entrance hallway leads to the grand town house and to the ground-floor shop space, which offers a floor area of around 60m² and has a shopfront window. The hallway also leads up to the apartment, which has three main rooms and a floor area of around 140m². This apartment takes up the edifice’s first and second floors. The second building has a single-storey 18th-century main section made of dressed stone that faces a court, which is partly covered. A four-floor medieval tower with a loft adjoins this section. This edifice has a wooden terrace on its south side and a walled garden that extends eastwards and southwards. On the narrow street on the south side, there is a separate stone building that adjoins two other properties. It houses a vast ground-floor garage and an upstairs space with sloping attic ceilings that could be converted. The latter space can be reached from the garden via the wooden terrace.

This pretty stone property is located a short distance from the popular town of Lectoure, with its weekly market and plethora of eclectic independent shops, its schools and many antique dealers for which the town is so well known. This property is set in a peaceful area, with a long private driveway far from the hub of the village but with easy access to Lectoure, Agen and Toulouse with easy access for Paris, Bordeaux and Toulouse. With living accommodation on three levels of the main house, the property comprises : a veranda, main reception room, spacious kitchen, dining-room, bedroom and shower room, laundry room, and separate WC. On the first floor there is a master suite with an ensuite bathroom. On the lower garden level there is a private appartment suite (with 3 rooms) as well as the boiler room and garage. The gardens are a delight, and the current owner who is a keen gardener has created a floral backdrop to the house which is an absolute delight, with many varieties of trees, roses and bushes (a list can be found in the details below). Here at Bliss we loved the covered terrace area, opposite the main house, for summer dining, with a backdrop of beautiful roses. For anyone with dogs, it is interesting to note that the entire garden has been fenced off. There are some pretty vines growing along one section of the fencing, to accompany the cheese board. There is a decorative stone water feature with thirty fish (we didn’t count!) The additional outbuilding/ cottage in the gardens which is partially renovated on two floor, provides further scope for development (subject to any relevant planning which may be necessary).

This magnificent Gascon Château sits in the heart of rolling countryside and has been treasured by the same family for several generations. With its foundations in the Middle Ages, circa 1479, these old stone walls have observed the centuries pass by and observed each generation adapt the building according to the needs and innovations of its time. The most remarkable of these modifications was the extension of the original château before the French Revolution by the Comtesse de Beaumont, a courtesan of the court, who, forced to flee from court and to return home to Gascony, (one wonders at the actions that led to the wrath of the Queen?), later hosted political refugees herself, fleeing the bloodshed of Paris and the reign of terror in 1789. Later throughout the 20th century and war with Germany, the chateau once again offered sanctuary to those in need. In the second world war a Jewish refugee by the name of Irène Lezorviez, was hidden here. As a sign of recognition a tree was planted in 1987 in Jerusalem as a sign of recognition to the Gascon French resistance. The Comtesse de Beaumont was the person to make the greatest contribution to the development of the Château as we know it today. Bringing back home with her the notions of fine living she had experienced at court, the Comtesse was anxious to create a similar splendour in rural Gascony. This might have been a rural and working estate, but the Comtesse made additions to ensure that it was transformed into a place of beauty and the ideal place to host parties, with the addition of the 18th century wing which forms the main building today, to the addition of the stone turrets with their far reaching views, to the development of the stunning parkland with its tree-lined avenues in the shape of a star, leading to the bronze statue of Diane the huntress, and last but not least, the construction of the delicate and ornamental chapel where current owners of this family have married. During her time at the Château many parties were hosted here, and it is a testimony to the longevity of the Gascons themselves, that having escaped the Revolution, the Comtesse lived on until the fine age of one hundred years! Each successive generation has brought change and innovation to the park and buildings, with various additions; for example, the innovative water-pump and windmill, to the complete renewal of the roof as we see them today by the current owners. This property was the first to experience the joys of running water and has traditionally been the residence of a succession of innovative and inspirational residents. With its towers, pigeonniers, moat and wine chai, as well as being a place of beauty, we are reminded that this Château is also a testament to the rich agricultural architecture of Gascony. Brought to market for the first time in centuries by BLISS IMMOBILIER since 1881, this is a rare and extraordinary opportunity to enjoy not only an incredible building and park, but to experience French history first-hand. Some of the original furniture remains, including the commode at the entrance hall with its grand mirror, installed by the Comtesse so that she might check her appearance before leaving through the grand front door. As you glance at the mirror today, and see your own reflection, it is easy to sense the rustle of the skirts of the Comtesse behind you in the grand hallway and imagine her elegant figure sweeping across the magnificent original tiled floor. These rooms are alive with history, in a place which time has somehow managed to forget. Whether your project is to develop a business suitable to the 21st century within these walls, and to bring the rooms alive with conferences or luxury guest suites for guests visiting this wonderful corner of southwest France, or whether you are someone who simply craves the joy and of stepping back in time and living a part of your life where so many others have left their imprint before, we cannot know. What we can promise, is that this is a rare opportunity to live in a place of immense beauty. Climb to the top of the high stone turret and survey the dizzying view of your magnificent 4,6-hectare park, with far reaching views as far as the eye can see on all four sides. Admire the old oak trees which are hundreds of years old, the likes of which could never grow within a single lifetime. Welcome to your own personal opportunity to become chatelain or chatelaine of this fine Gascon château. More photos and information as well as a film on our Bliss real estate website

The cathedral town of Lectoure is well-known for its panoramic views from its proud position up on high. Along the northern and southern ramparts one’s eye is drawn across the sprawling countryside, for miles around. The best properties in Lectoure are those with such a magical outlook. Tucked away just a stone's throw from the bustling town centre, this elegant property boasts both a pool, garden and those much sought-after views. Behind the old wrought-iron gate the front garden is deliciously adorned with fragrant plants and bushes reminiscent of a secret curate’s garden, tucked away from sight. The neatly clipped and tended plants and bushes add to the property’s restful zen appeal. To the rear of the property there a fabulous terrace provides breathtaking views quite unlike any other in town. The front-door opens onto a spacious central hallway with high ceilings, filled with natural light which floods in through its tall windows. One particularly attractive feature throughout the property is the tall ceilings in classical 18th century style throughout. To the right of the entrance hall, a spacious double bedroom boasts the same large windows while on the left of the main front door, another generously sized bedroom overlooks a picturesque view of the garden and ancient medieval walls. The third bedroom is equally as spacious, and also has impressive views. A modern style family bathroom, complete with modern amenities, a separate WC, along with a cleverly designed laundry area, are all presented in pristine condition. A magnificent open-plan reception-room sits at the heart of the house with direct access to the kitchen and terrace. In the main living-area there are three fabulous windows that frame the distant views, adorning the room with light and a sense of space. One has the impression in this room of « floating » above the landscape. A newly fitted cosy wood-burning stove nestles in the corner adding warmth and ambiance to the room, which makes this the perfect spot to unwind on chilly winter evenings. The adjoining kitchen blends seamlessly with the living area, providing ample space in a pleasingly contemporary workspace. The « pièce de resistance » is the panoramic terrace, with its sweeping vista of the valley, with its sense of privacy and serenity - despite the property’s central location in town. This is a lovely spot indeed for a nocturnal dinner party beneath the soft glow of the stars. Both internally and externally the property boasts clean lines, abundant natural light, and timeless elegance.

We are delighted to bring to market this beautifully restored period property situated in a small hamlet close to Lectoure. With an elegant garden, Scandinavian hot tub and gazebo this property is truly a rural idyll. Comprising a farmhouse-style kitchen, dining room, elegant main reception room, second reception room (or guest apartment / downstairs bedroom), shower room, and a combined utility /boot room on the ground floor. With three generous sized bedrooms on the first floor (the master bedroom has an ensuite shower room) and a family bathroom, this property is a perfect year-round residence or elegant holiday home in one of the most sought-after areas of Gascony. Full details with a complete description and extra photosare available on our Bliss Website.

For centuries this charming timber framed property has graced the heart of an ancient Gascon village, a testament to time. Some fifteen years ago, the entire building was dissected, and rebuilt, so that it could see in the next millennia. Today the property oozes character. Imagine a drawing in a book of fairytale fables: this could easily belong to Hansel and Gretel, or just as easily be a drawing in a book. However, it is a real property with heart and soul – and when we open its cute and characterful blue door, trailing with honeysuckle, the inside is as warm and welcoming as it promises from the outside. The property is attached on one side, to an equally charming home, and to the front of the house, there is an area with a table, pots, and plants, which although forming part of the main square of the village, is used by both neighbours to create an attractive area to sit for coffee or lunch. At a short distance from the house on foot and at the bottom of the village, there is a private garden, with fabulous view over the valleys of the Gers to the south. Here the owner has installed a top of the range sauna and built a platform that overlooks the views. There is a non-adjacent garden, and the property has two bedrooms, kitchen/dining-room, 2 reception rooms, one downstairs shower-room, 2 WCs. The property has two bedrooms, kitchen/dining-room, 2 reception rooms, one downstairs shower-room, 2 WCs.

Situated in the Lectoure/ Condom area, on the outskirts of a popular village location, this impressive building and its adjacent land was once home to a shepherd and his flock of sheep. If “shepherd’s huts” conjure images of small and cosy dwellings, think again. This property has large and spacious rooms, high ceilings and the proportions one might more easily associate with an impressive manor house. The property has been partially restored, over a number of years, so that today we are presented with the bare and solid framework of a sizeable home with an excellent structure. With a new roof, concrete floors, exposed stone walls and new windows in most of the openings. A fabulous stone staircase links the first and second floor and there is a vast barn adjacent to the property which could also be developed (subject to any necessary planning permissions). We particularly like the way the property forms a large “L” shape around an internal sheltered garden area. This is a property which will warrant a visit and is more easily described with our photographs and floor plans - with further information on request. This is an opportunity to create a home almost from scratch, but with a solid structure and with evidence of electrical cables and drainage in place - and plans in place for what the current owners intended to do, there is ample opportunity for new owners to design the property around their own needs. With wooded parkland, stone garden walls and many trees and bushes, the grounds provide plenty of outdoor space. The nearby towns of Lectoure and Condom, with their weekly markets, schools and many shops and restaurants, are a popular destination for holiday makers and home seekers. Agen with its TGV station is just under an hour’s drive, and Toulouse international airport just over an hour.

The property There is little to be seen from the outside of the property other than its high stone walls and the solid wooden doors of its entrance, which makes our first sighting of the garden when its doors are pulled back quite special, as the dramatic view on the other side of the garden gate is quite unexpected. Our eyes are drawn along a white stone path to a stone wall at the far end of the garden, from which there is a vertiginous view over the valley to the south. In this respect, the garden has its own “ramparts”, and it is here on a sunny day we sit up on high to lunch and admire the chequered green and golden fields below, spread out in their rich tapestry. The garden is completely private and tranquil, and is surely one of the most beautiful spots for al fresco dining in Gascony. The house sits to one side of the pathway, the old barn to the other. The garden is full of ancient scented roses, with beautiful colours of baby pink contrasting perfectly with the pale leaves of the olive tree. There are flower beds bursting into life with the summer sunshine and with the dramatic backdrop of the barn. The pool is partially enclosed in a stone building, and is thus beautifully sheltered. First let’s take a look at the house. Built on two levels, each level is a separate, independent unit, allowing the property to be occupied as one single house or two completely independent appartments within the same house. One can of course choose to link the two floors via a staircase. On the upper garden level, there is a large and spacious reception-room, with an open-plan kitchen in one corner. This beautiful room has windows on three sides, with views over the valley and the garden. The view from each window is unspoilt and the recently fitted windows provide the perfect framework. Two original doors lead to a large double bedroom with an ensuite shower-room and WC. The bedroom overlooks the valley, and has an ornamental fireplace. A newly fitted wooden staircase leads to a first floor mezzanine above, which is currently used as a study. Returning to the garden once more, we descend a flight of stone steps to an enclosed courtyard below. This area holds the warm sunlight between its stone walls and is the perfect sheltered spot on a windy day, or between seasons. The lower courtyard, and the lower level of the house can also be accessed directly from the village, so that although there are two sections to this property, each has its own garden. On the ground floor we enter a beautiful kitchen with a long stone work surface and sink that runs the entire length of one wall, with views to the garden. The room has two archways, one of which opens directly onto the main reception-room, where there is a woodburning stove, the second archway opens onto an area currently as a bedroom albeit this room does not have a door. This area could also be used as an extension of the main reception-room, as a study, or second sitting-room. On the lower ground floor level, there is also a spacious shower-room. The barn This is arguably one of the most beautiful buildings we have seen at Bliss, and the barn has its own special history. During the war, members of the resistance met here, and made radio broadcasts to London from the upper section of the barn, via a radio set which was still present, and is now housed in a museum. If these old stone walls could tell a story.. we would hear their whispers long into the night. The barn is currently used for storage on both levels. We particularly love the stone steps to the upper level which run up the external wall. Although planning permission would definitely be required for a change of usage, one cannot help but imagine what an amazing project one could carry out here.

The advertiser did not provide an english description for this listing.

Proudly facing the snow-capped mountains from its hillside position, bathed with light throughout the year, and drenched with golden summer sunshine, this property is one of the most historical, and fascinating properties to be found in the heart of Lectoure. With two gardens, and terraces on two levels, this is a house of mystery, of nooks and crannies, and endless quiet corners in which to read or escape the world. Unique and magical, it is a hard task to describe, but allow us to accompany you into the ever surprising and unexpected world of this property. We enter the building from the heart of town and leave behind the bustle of village life, with the baker, grocer, wine-shop, and tea-rooms on our doorstep, and enter an ochre coloured external hallway redolent of a Spanish castell with a wrought iron gate protecting the entrance to the inner courtyard. Owned by the same family for over thirty years, this property has been a much-loved private home. Architecturally, it is an unusual and segmented property, at the heart of which sits an internal courtyard, from whence there rises a monumental staircase built in 1702. The property comprises two separate buildings one on each side of the courtyard. The north-facing façade overlooking Lectoure’s main high street and the south-facing façade, facing the Pyrenees. The North and South sections of the property are linked on ground floor, first floor and second floor levels by covered passageways with original wooden floors and ceilings. The property has traditionally been used as one single home but equally it could be used as individual apartments with a central communal area, or as luxury lettings : with five fully equipped appartements (each with kitchen and bathroom) and a top floor artist’s studio. The building comprises two appartements on the north side, three on the south side, and the artist’s studio on the top floor under the eaves. From the internal courtyard, where there is an old stone well, we descend a short flight of stone steps, pass beneath the south-facing building, and traverse an area where old stable doors currently provide storage for garden tools and dusty bottles of wine. The south-facing garden opens into an old stone outbuilding (currently used for parking) which in turn opens onto the rear street behind, providing valuable access to the gardens for works to the property or evacuation of garden rubbish. A private parking area in Lectoure is much cherished, and it is convenient to have an exit to the southern ramparts of town, especially during the summer months when on Mondays and Fridays the popular Lectoure markets are held and the main rue Nationale is blocked for vehicular access.

If you are looking for a property without frills or fuss, with clean lines, spacious light-filled rooms, and a pristine finish, then this could be the property for you. Located within easy reach of the much beloved market-town of Lectoure, this rural haven offers a tranquil and restful retreat from the world. The property is situated at the end of a rural and private lane with neighbouring fields to each side, and sits in an elevated position overlooking the farmer’s bucolic woodlands to the rear; a canopy of mature trees encircling the plot. The gardens are neatly presented, with contrasting areas of woodland and landscaped areas. The lawns encircle a smart poolside terrace, decked with sun-loungers and bordered by a variety of roses, bushes and herbs. Neatly clipped pathways lead to the house both to the main entrance and to the terraces to the side, where vast bay windows overlooking the gardens from the kitchen and the reception-room. Tall and gracious trees provide an additional architectural interest to the garden. From the outside, the property has maintained the classic air of a traditional maison de maitre with its lovely stone façade. It features a stone and wood carpark and a total of five parking spaces. Inside, there an unexpected modern twist. The main hallways opens onto a vast open-plan area comprising the kitchen, dining-room and main reception-room with a vast insert log-burner. Large sliding glass doors that slot into the outer walls of the property can be pulled back to “open” the kitchen and reception rooms “out” onto the garden, creating a seamless indoor/outdoor space in the summer months, with views to the pool. An internal hallway on the ground-floor leads to a spacious and beautifully appointed bedroom with storage cupboards. A second downstairs bedroom is currently used as a study with French doors to the gardens. With access from the same hallway, there is a large a bathroom with a corner bath and spacious shower, a separate lavatory, a vast laundry-room and a boiler-room. With separate access from the garden, the current owner has converted an outbuilding into a peaceful artist’s studio. With a large bay-window ensuring a joyous flow of light into the room, this area is the perfect place in which to meditate; where creative souls can set to work, whether that be with an easel, a kiln or a quill. It is possible to create a gîte or set up an independent business. Returning now to the house, let’s take a look upstairs : A modern open-plan staircase leads to the first-floor landing which has lovely views over the lower ground-floor of the property; almost as though one were standing on the upper deck of a modern boat and looking down, sunlight zinging through the property in every direction. A large internal space at the top of the stairs on the first floor is used as an upstairs reception-room. In addition to this relaxing and private upstairs living-area, there are three comfortable bedrooms, one of which has its own dressing-room and private It has a private shower room with wc and another with a large storage cupboard. There is also an additional shower-room with wc, shared by the other two bedrooms. The house is presented in pristine condition from top to bottom. The rooms are tastefully decorated, mostly in shades of white; the occasional rear wall being wall-papered to the highest standard. The property is functional, with lots of storage space, and the comfort of a large downstairs bathroom and two upstairs shower-rooms. With five main bedrooms (all doubles) and a second private reception-room upstairs, and a separate outdoor artist’s studio, there are plenty of areas in which to work from home, or to find a quiet area in which to concentrate, albeit the main “hub” of the house is open-plan. The property also has a storage area, and a covered area linking the house and artist’s studio.

This property is located in a picturesque medieval village, itself an island amidst a sea of greenery and typical of those medieval Gascon villages for which the Gers is renowned. Although there are no shops or commerces, the property is within a whisper of Lectoure, with its many eclectic shops and restaurants. This old stone house offers sweeping views over the valley towards the south of Gascony, the views being one of the property’s most desirable features. It boasts two entrances. One is found in a narrow alleyway frequented only by locals, the other to the south, at the top of a stone staircase, beside an adorable miniature terrace: an unbeatable spot for evening (or lunchtime!) apéritifs while contemplating expanse of valley below. Entering the sturdy front door adorned with its original heavy ironwork, we find ourselves in a spacious Gascon hallway which runs from front to back of the property, where a large table takes center stage for convivial family meals. If you are not yet familiar with the area, you will soon learn that the Gascon hallway being often the grandest space in the house, easily doubles up as a formal entertaining area. Dismiss all conventional ideas as to what a hallway should be used for. In Gascony, a hallway is an extra room. To the left, we enter a warm and welcoming kitchen which is full of charm, with its glass-fronted cabinets and gleaming tile backsplashes, and is generously sized for dining and offers delicious views out to the landscape beyond. The kitchen opens directly onto the main reception room, which is equally as bright, and cosy. This room is an invitation to relaxation, or reading, or for a pleasant nap on a hot summer day, where one can enjoy the warmth of the room in winter, and its refreshing coolness in summer; the property’s thick stone walls providing protection throughout the year. The First Floor Ascend via a beautiful wooden staircase opening onto a large, light-filled landing, an ideal spot for a home office. The first bedroom is bathed in southerly light, and enjoys the same lovely views of the valley. It has hardwood floors, lime-coated stone walls, exposed beams, and a fireplace. The second bedroom, more spacious still, offers the same charm. From its window, one can see fields and woods in the distance, and the ancient medieval walls of the surrounding properties. The bathroom is contemporary in style and features a shower, bathtub, double sink, and WC. The Second Floor A staircase worn by the passage of many footsteps over time, leads to the second floor. Nestled up here, we discover the perfect nook for a cozy reading corner, along with the third bedroom: a spacious cocoon under the roof where children will delight in creating a secret hideaway. The Garden It's small...non-adjacent (being a couple of steps away) but charming! Located right beside the main house, this area provides an extra outdoor room in the summer months. A place to plant some flowers or veg. The ideal place for a summer dining table or barbecue. There is some vis à vis from the property above at the far end, but one section of the garden offers a private area for a table and chairs. Nestled against a heavy dry-stone wall, it charms with its majestic prickly pear fig tree, vivid red photinia in spring, and the abundant whiteness of its snowball bushes. A low-maintenance garden in a tranquil spot where you can contemplate under the starry skies of Gascony.