Villa rental in Villeneuve-sur-Lot area, France - Chic villa retreat in 17th Century luxury barn + large pool - Property 93712

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A little history about the property: La Maison de Maitre is a small elegant 18th Century country mansion, situated on a quite rural lane, high up in the hills above Sainte Livrade-sur-Lot, which overlooks the picturesque Cazeneuve valley. Apparently built by a local wealthy land owner. It's impressive collection of 17th century stone buildings arranged around a central garden including pigeonnier with bread oven, dove house, wine store, huge barn and even a few remnants of a little chapel 'Notre damme de Villamade' still visible in the front garden (more like a little hamlet!) all seem to support this theory. Ancient historic pathways cross the valley beyond the grounds and provide pleasant country walks through corn, wheat and sunflower fields.

The Accomodation : The magnificent stone barn has been lovingly restored and transformed into a chic, spacious and luxurious retreat for groups of up to 10 people. The owners have placed great value on the barn's many original features, such as the exposed vanilla stone walls, impressive beam work, and the odd quirky little original window. Only natural products have been used with oak woodwork and limestone flooring throughout, and outside the property is surrounded by aromatic and exotic plants and flowers - a treat for all the senses! Within the barn there are 3 separately accessed self-catering suites, affording a degree of privacy and flexibility whilst holidaying together. Each suite offers it's own bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen/dining and living accommodation. On top of this, Suite 1offers the space and facilities to entertain the whole group either inside in it's extensive dining area in front of the vast glazed former barn doors or outside under the huge covered verandah.

The Grounds: The property is set in almost 8 acres of landscaped gardens, park and fields which guests are welcome to explore, play boules or simply to discover the many delightful shadey spots to sit, and maybe even have a home picnic! Guests are also encouraged to help themselves to the plentiful cherries, purple and golden figs, wild golden plums and walnuts found ripening throughout the year. The extensive terraced patio area around the 12 x 6 m pool is flanked by cypress trees, fragrant lavender and rosemary flower beds and lawns. A second decked patio area also with sun loungers and umbrellas can be found just beyond the pool. Either here or around the pool guests can spend leisurely hours in the sun enjoying wonderful views across the picturesque valley or sipping a glass of something cool whilst watching a glorious sunset.

Other Activities: antique fairs, weekly markets, canoeing, river boat trips, microlites, chateaux

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