Chateau Rural
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In the heart of Gascony, surrounded by landscapes of sunflower fields and hills, is the magnificent estate of Château Rural. This charming and historical resid...
Read moreOverview
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In the heart of Gascony, surrounded by landscapes of sunflower fields and hills, is the magnificent estate of Château Rural. This charming and historical residence is a true reflection of this traditional region and is a wonderful retreat for families and friends looking for authenticity and peace.
The foundations of the estate date back to the Middle Ages yet it was in the 18th Century when the existing château was created by a famous countess who designed the magnificent park featuring statues and a small chapel where locals could go and worship. In the 19th century the new owner added an innovative irrigation system using windmills, two of which remain to this day, alongside other historical features such as the ancient wine cellar and the château’s original towers.
Inside, the style of the modern-day château is one of rustic charm and rural warmth, with twelve charming bedrooms featuring sweet and comfortable furnishings, delightful living and dining rooms, a games room with French billiards and a historic library featuring thousands of books.
The château’s managers, who live in a nearby gite within the estate, are experienced instructors in yoga, pilates and circus arts and can host individual or group classes for guests in their fantastic yoga studio on the estate. Whether aerial yoga, meditation or Hatha and Vinyasa, this is the perfect place to practice yoga or pilates in a serene environment.
Outside you are surrounded by six acres of parkland featuring ancient oaks, wonderful walks and a swimming lake or stay closer to home and relax by the heated swimming pool and glorious pool terrace. For the more active guests, you can kick a football around, play darts, ride the château’s bikes or play French billiards in the games room. There are also tennis courts within walking distance, as well as golf, horse-riding and canoeing within a short drive.
Gascony is one of the most unspoilt and rural regions of France with a fantastic reputation for its gastronomy with amazing Farmer’s markets dotted around local villages and towns and many fine local producers of Grand Armagnac. Just ten-minutes away is the delightful hilltop village of Lectoure with its lovely restaurants, antique shops and a great market on a Friday morning or head to nearby Fleurance on a Tuesday morning to experience one of the largest markets in the region.
The owners can arrange a number of wonderful private excursions for guests from Armagnac tastings in St Puy to visits to the beautiful market towns of Condom and Auch. There's even a half-day trip to the lovely Ferme du Hitton where families can visit lavender fields and donkeys.
Other villages and hamlets in the area to explore include three of France's ‘Plus Beaux Villages’ within forty minutes by car; Fourcès, Larresingle and Montréal du Gers.
Further afield the cities of Toulouse and Bordeaux would make exceptional days out before returning to the peace and tranquillity of Château Rural.
What you should know…
- Check the Video Tour alongside the "Features" tab for the layout of this authentic château.
- The caretakers live within the estate in a separate gite about 300m from the chateau. They are on hand to welcome you and ensure you have a wonderful stay
- If it’s unseasonably cool in the evening there are log-fires in some of the rooms
- The cushions on the French billiards table don't all play true!
This home is a part of our Great Value and Heritage Collection!
This is a historic home, and as such:
- It has probably been standing for over 100 years, which means it's full of historic value and charm but it may also have one or two quirks!
- Some of the decor and furnishings may not be brand new, but that should not detract from your holiday experience in this unique setting that allows you to take a step back in time!
Property Features
Interior of Château
Ground Floor
- Entrance hall and main staircase
- Lounge 1 with sofas, desk and chess table
- Lounge 2 with sofas, TV, desk and dining table for 6 guests
- Dining room
- Kitchen, well-equipped including Nespresso coffee machine
- Lemon Tree Bedroom (set between hallway and lounge 1) with twin beds
- Lillies Bedroom with two double beds
- Pruneau Bedroom with twin beds
- Family bathroom with bath and sink (between Lillies and Pruneau Bedroom)
- Laurels Bedroom with twin beds and en suite bathroom with bath, two sinks and bidet
- Family shower room with walk-in shower, sink and toilet
- Espelette Bedroom with four-poster bed (single occupancy)
- Laundry room
- Chapel (next to Pruneau Bedroom, accessed only from outside)
First Floor
- Games room with French billiards and board games
- Library (French and some English books)
- Rose Bedroom with two double beds, one single bed and small en suite shower room with shower, sink and toilet
- Lavender Bedroom with single bed and small en suite shower room with corner shower, sink and separate WC
- Capucine Bedroom with twin beds
- Bamboo Bedroom with four-corner double bed
- Bathroom with bath, sink and toilet (accessed via both Capucine and Bamboo Bedrooms)
- Iris Bedroom with two double beds and adjoining tower room with double bed
- Jasmine Bedroom with two double beds
- Family shower room with walk-in shower and sink
- W.C
Outside Grounds
- Heated swimming pool (10mx5m). Open from early May to late October, secured by a fence and electric rolling shutter
- Wooden pool terrace with sun-loungers (100m2)
- Al-fresco dining area
- BBQ
- Swing
- 6-acre parkland featuring swimming/bathing lake
Facilities
- Yoga studio (160m2)
- Wi-Fi
- TV
- French billiards
- Board games
- Toys
- Bikes x 5
- Darts
- Books (mainly French, some English)
- Children’s books and DVDs
Location
About the surrounding area of Chateau RuralChâteau Rural is in the heart of Gascony, surrounded by six acres of parkland featuring wonderful walks and a swimming lake. The countryside around includes fields of sunflowers and wheat, creating stunning summer landscapes so typical of this region.
Gascony (officially The Gers department) is one of the most unspoilt and rural regions of France with idyllic local villages and towns, beautiful scenery and a fantastic reputation for its gastronomy with local markets selling wonderful local produce including foie gras and confits.
The nearest village is within walking distance, as are tennis courts whilst the nearest cafes, restaurants and shops are within a ten-minute drive to Fleurance (10km) or Lectoure (13km).
The historic hilltop village of Lectoure (13km) is incredibly attractive and there is a lovely antique market in what used to be the old 18th century hospital. The Friday morning Farmer’s market is a must to buy some of the amazing local produce and there are also some excellent restaurants and cafes across the picturesque village.
Fleurance (10km) is another pretty market town and the weekly market on a Tuesday morning is one of the largest in the area. Other villages and hamlets in the area to explore include three of France's ‘Plus Beaux Villages’, Fourcès (35km), Larresingle (27km) and Montréal du Gers (36km).
The town of Condom (22km), only 25-minutes away, includes a Michelin-starred restaurant as well as boat rental, whilst Auch (32km), with its old quarter raised high above the Gers river, has an incredible cathedral.
Private excursions can be arranged for guests to the towns of Lectoure, Auch and Condom, especially on market day.
The delightful town of Agen (47km) is famous for producing prunes, often soaked in local brandy, and it is also worthy of a visit for its remarkable history and covered daily market. The cities of Toulouse (99km) and Bordeaux (175km) are also within striking distance for an exceptional day out.
There is so much to do in this rural part of Gascony whether cycling, golf, horse-riding, hiking or canoeing on the River Baise in Beaucaire (20km). This is also Grand Armagnac country with plenty of opportunities to visit local producers; tastings and guided tours can easily be arranged.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Toulouse-Blagnac
(97km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Agen
(45km) |
||
| Nearest Town/City |
Fleurance/Lectoure
(10km/13km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
(Walking distance) |
||
| Nearest Tennis |
(Walking distance) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Fleurance/Lectoure
(10km/13km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Fleurance
(10km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf De Fleurance
(15km) |
||
Region
A relatively new addition to France, the Midi-Pyrénées was created to surround the cultural capital of Toulouse in the late 1970s. You might think that its relative youth would mean the Midi-Pyrénées is short on character or identity, but remember, this is France we’re talking about – the whole country is steeped in history and tradition. Encompassing parts of Gascony, Languedoc, the Gers and several others, you’ll get a varied slice of the whole French experience here, not least if you stay at one of our beautiful chateaux in the Midi-Pyrénées! And if you want to discover the best of what the region has to offer, our Midi-Pyrénées travel guide is here to show you where to go, what to eat and how you can make the best of your break with some amazing activities.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesWithin walking distance there are tennis courts that all the family can use or just a short drive away you can find horse-riding, canoeing along the River Baise or boat hire in Condom.
A 15 minute walk through the grounds (or 5 minute drive away) takes you down to the swimming lake - rubber rings or buoyancy aids are recommended for younger kids.
There is also a secret passageway from one of the bedrooms up the original tower with sensational views for miles around.
The owners offer various excursions including a half-day tour to La Ferme du Hitton with lavender fields and donkeys, ideal for children.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Walk to Village
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Bikes
- Board games
- Children's books
- Children's videos/DVDs
- Darts
- Footballs
- Swings
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- Bicycles Provided
- Games Room
- Indoor Games
- Table Tennis
- Pool/Snooker
- DVD
- Toys
Services Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Included
- Babysitting Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Included
- Babysitting Available
- Yoga and Pilates Classes Available
- Circus Arts Classes Available
- Local Chef Available
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- Babysitting / childcare services
Extras included at this property:
- Maid service: light house-keeping 1h/day
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Yoga classes (group or private, Hatha, Vinyasa and meditation)
- Aerial yoga (small group of 5 guests)
- Pilates classes (group or private)
- Circus Arts (group or private, Lyra/Tissu)
- Local chef who can prepare meals for guests (menus on request)
- Pre-purchase of groceries prior to arrival
- Taxis/car hire from Toulouse Airport or Agen Train station
- Help finding baby-sitters
- Various excursions in the local area including guided visits to local markets, Armagnac tastings and hot-air balloon rides
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
Château Rural
This is such a peaceful setting for an intimate wedding with plenty of rustic char...
Read moreEvent information
Château Rural
This is such a peaceful setting for an intimate wedding with plenty of rustic charm and warmth to accompany the tranquillity. It’s beautifully positioned within six acres of ancient oaks and has a serene tree lined swimming lake, an atmospheric backdrop to any photoshoot. The original 18th century towers, ancient wine cellar, windmill and statues will remind your guests of the château’s rich history. Relax with a spot of yoga before the studio, with its amazing rural views, is prepared for your celebrations. Your feast is bound to reflect some of the gastronomic delights of Gascony and maybe even a taste of local Armagnac before the dancing begins.
Wedding Reception
A wedding reception for up to 50 guests could take place in the large park of the château (with a marquee if necessary) or inside the spacious yoga studio which can be specially prepared for events.
Dancing and music can continue as late as you like with no noise restrictions at this rural location.
Wedding Ceremony
A ceremony with up to 50 people could take place in either the park or the yoga studio.
The owners can provide details of an English-speaking celebrant.
Where to Stay
The château can sleep up to 20 people.
Within a 10 minute drive the remaining guests can be accommodated in hotels in the neighbouring villages.
The owners can supply details of local transport firms.
Wedding Planning
The owners can recommend an event planner or clients may arrange their own. The owners will help to provide contacts of suppliers for the wedding preparations.
The managers on-site will be fully involved on the day to prepare the château and ensure all is set-up for the event but do not help with the event planning.
Catering
The owners can recommend local caterers or clients may arrange their own.
Other information
Minimum stay is 4 nights – 1 week.
Owners prefer calm and civilised events – no big parties please.
The owner of the château is a yoga instructor – classes are available as part of your stay.
Events can be held May-October.
Please note that any event rental may be subject to additional charges, venue hire fees and to a higher security deposit, which will be in addition to any published rental rates and fees. All events are on request only and subject to prior agreement from the owner, who reserves the right to refuse all events without their prior authorisation.
| Security deposit | €1500 charged to client’s credit card as a pre-authorisation one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 3.00 p.m (all other times on request only). |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m (all other times on request only). |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €1500 charged to client’s credit card as a pre-authorisation one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 3.00 p.m (all other times on request only). |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m (all other times on request only). |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, including pool towels. All linen changed once a week. |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. |
| Changeover day | Saturday or Sunday. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes. However, 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 garbage disposal required will be charged against the security deposit |
| Pool heating charge? | No. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Other Ts and Cs | The brand new swimming pool is due to open in May 2019. It will then be open from early May to late October (cooler months may not be suitable for swimming). |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 20 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Apr 24th 2024 - Apr 27th 2024 | £6,955 |
| Apr 27th 2024 - Jun 27th 2024 | £6,955 |
| Jun 27th 2024 - Aug 28th 2024 | £7,451 |
| Aug 28th 2024 - Apr 26th 2025 | £6,955 |
| Apr 26th 2025 - Jun 26th 2025 | £6,955 |
| Jun 26th 2025 - Aug 27th 2025 | £7,451 |
| Aug 27th 2025 - Oct 26th 2025 | £6,955 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
How long have you owned the property?
The castle has been in our family since 1881. My wife and I have been responsible for managing the place since 2012.
What wa...
Owner Profile
How long have you owned the property?
The castle has been in our family since 1881. My wife and I have been responsible for managing the place since 2012.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
Its location in the magnificent region of Gascony, surrounded by fields and hills. This is an authentic leftover of French history, dating back to the Middle Ages.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
In 1479 the castle was acquired by the Lords of a famous dynasty of the land of Armagnac. Under the French Revolution, the owner was a Countess who embellished the property, built a chapel so that the local inhabitants could have a place of worship, and created a magnificent park. She later hosted lavish balls and parties at the chateau.
In the 19th century the new owner, one of the most prominent entrepreneurs in the French building and civil engineering industry, spent his retirement looking after the chateau building windmills to help irrigate the fields and to supply the castle with water; two of these windmills are still preserved today in the castle and adjacent land.
For anyone coming to stay is there anything in the surrounding area they should...
Really do?
Gascony is famous for its gastronomy, hours-long meals and 'douceur de vivre'. Make sure you visit a Farmer's Market where you can buy authentic local produce.
You can also make the most of the peaceful, magnificent landscapes including rolling hills, wooded valleys, vineyards, sunflowers and a plethora of charming arcade village squares.
Really see?
Excursions / things to do close by include:
Village de Lectoure (10-min drive) with its antique market and photography festival in summer.
Vineyards and Armagnac distilleries
Cathédrale Sainte Marie in Auch
Other castles close by: Lavardens, Mauvezin, Abbaye de Flaran, Cassaigne and the fortified village of Larressingle
La Ferme du Hitton
Popular festivals in the region include:
Jazz in Marciac (27 July – 15 August)
Tempo Latino (26 – 29 July)
Bandas in Condom (11 – 13 May)
Reviews
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Beautiful Castle Venue with swimming pool
Un moment hors du temps où vous pourrez vous laisser votre vie tumultueuse de côté... n'hésitez pas!
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Amazing property! We'll be back!
Accueillis par Noelle et Mike qui ont été des hôtes discrets mais disponibles, nous avons passés un agréable séjour dans cette MAGNIFIQUE bâtisse. merci pour tout nous reviendrons. tout le monde a été ravi ! TOP !
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Wonderful stay!
All good thanks. Lovely guest. Would recommend!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
