Maison Des Amis
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Overview
On a hilltop with enchanting views of the Gers countryside, only 15km from the historic town of Auch, Maison Des Amis is set in the heart of rural Gascony, a region known for summer landscapes of sunflowers, sleepy bastide villages and some of the most wonderful food and wine in France.
In this secluded setting, you can appreciate the tranquillity from the delightful gardens which open up to organic farmland, giving the impression of endless landscapes around you. Spend warm days by the glorious swimming pool, long lunches in the shade of the summer kitchen, watch kids play games on the lawn and sip Armagnac from a local vineyard as you watch the sun set from one of the many corners of the garden and the starry skies appear. The peace and privacy will amaze you as you take in the undulating views; you can even see as far as the Pyrenees.
Inside you will appreciate the charm and character of this traditional yet spacious Gascon farmhouse, dating back to the mid-19th century and renovated with love and care. Feel at home in the large and airy living space with high oak-beamed ceilings, a sunken fireplace, library corner and French windows. The well-equipped kitchen, featuring many new appliances, offers ample space to create Gascon feasts and doors lead straight to the summer kitchen and terrace with its plancha-style barbecue.
Three bright and spacious bedrooms are full of light and enjoy lovely views of the surrounding countryside. Just a few steps away from the farmhouse, a delightful cottage offers a pretty fourth bedroom and wonderful living space, a lovely second home for guests to enjoy, perhaps grandparents or teens seeking a little independence.
The Gers region is waiting to be explored, an area of outstanding beauty yet relatively undiscovered, meaning quiet lanes ideal for cycling and stunning walks as well as wonderful bastide villages and historic towns to visit. Experience some of the region’s gastronomic highlights in small local restaurants where you can enjoy foie-gras, goose or duck and soak up the vibrant atmosphere at local Farmer’s markets in towns such as Vic-Fezensac, Fleurance and Lectoure. Look out for local fêtes, street parties and events taking place in nearby villages in the spring, summer and autumn, including in Maison Des Amis’ local commune, just a few minutes away.
The beautiful hilltop town of Auch is only 15km away with its narrow winding lanes, magical medieval architecture and magnificent cathedral, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Other past-times including bird watching (even from your garden), fishing, canoeing along the River Baise, sampling Armagnac in nearby vineyards or even travelling as far as the Pyrenees mountains for some amazing hikes. Not to mention the incredible châteaux, abbeys, rolling hills and idyllic villages that make up the mesmerising and welcoming Gers region.
What you should know…
- The fourth bedroom is in a delightful cottage, just a few steps away from the main house.
- We recommend travelling to the property in a high sided vehicle due to dusty roads.
This home is a part of our Great Value Collection!
Our great value homes:
- may be traditionally styled for a laid back feeling
- may have some simple amenities and features
- mean that you can enjoy top holiday destinations for less!
Property Features
Main House Interiors
(approximately 300m2, two levels inc. split-level ground floor)
- Open-plan split-level living-dining room (90m2) with sofas, fireplace, dining table (up to 10 guests) and library area. Doors lead to sun terrace
- TV/reading room
- Kitchen, well-equipped including dishwasher, fridge-freezer, cooking range with 5 x gas hobs, double electric oven, coffee maker, soda stream. Doors lead to terrace and summer kitchen
- Guest WC
- Bedroom 1 with super-king bed (twin on request) with en suite bathroom with bath, sink and WC
- Bedroom 2 with super-king bed (twin on request) with en suite shower room with shower and sink
- Bedroom 3 with super-king bed (twin on request) with en suite shower room with shower and sink
- WC (shared between bedrooms 2 and 3)
Cottage Interiors (approximately 60m2)
- Open-plan living area (26m2) with small sofa-bed
- Open-plan breakfast kitchen corner, equipped with fridge, 2 x electric hobs, kettle, toaster, tea and coffee making facilities. Door leads to covered terrace (30m2)
- Bedroom (17m2) with super-king size bed (twin on request)
- Shower room with WC
Outside Grounds
- Swimming pool (11x5m, depth: 1-2.25m) with remote controlled safety alarm. Low chlorine system
- Al-fresco dining area with summer kitchen and plancha-grill
- Boules
- Grass area (ideal for games)
- Tree swing
- Hammocks
- Grounds (5000m2, unenclosed leading to organic farmland)
- Stone outbuildings
- Parking (shaded area for 3 cars)
Facilities
- Wi-Fi (with two portable boosters)
- Heating (main house only)
- Satellite TV (inc. English news channels and German Eurosport)
- DVD player
- Board games
- Books
- Washing machine
Location
About the surrounding area of Maison Des AmisMaison Des Amis is in a countryside location in the captivating Gers department of southern France, only 15km from Auch. This is the traditional region of Gascony which is known for landscapes of sunflowers and some of the most wonderful food and wine in France.
The local village/commune, a few minutes by car, is typical of this region with a post office and a bread depot, as well as a village café that only opens on a Saturday morning. In the summer look out for a number of events taking place in the village square from musical evenings to food events; visitors are always made to feel very welcome.
There is a lovely grocery store around 5km away in the village of Barran whilst restaurants and larger supermarkets can be found in Auch (15km), around a 20-minute drive away. Vic-Fezensac (22km) is also a great town where you can discover amazing restaurants and food shops specialising in local Gascon cuisine as well as a weekly market and larger supermarkets.
Auch (15km) is an incredibly picturesque hilltop town with medieval winding lanes, half-timbered houses, beautiful historic architecture and its grand cathedral, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy wonderful Gascon cuisine at one of the many charming restaurants and enjoy the lively atmosphere at one of the two weekly markets on a Thursday and Saturday morning, selling all sorts of great seasonal produce from the local area.
Indeed, you can experience the famous cuisine of Gascony across many restaurants across local villages, serving local delights such as foie gras, prunes, duck breast, goose or whatever may be in season – look out for some great lunchtime menus. Armagnac and wine tours in this region are also possible with many local vineyards offering complimentary tastings and the chance to buy their product.
In the spring, summer and autumn villages come alive with fêtes, festivities, markets and evenings of live music. There are also great night markets in the height of the summer in larger towns. If staying in July or August, look out for the famous music festival that takes places in Marciac (45km), featuring jazz musicians from across the world. The owners will give you information on what is taking place during your stay.
Other places to explore include the well-known market towns of Fleurance (40km) and Lectoure (50km) as well as the delightful villages of Larressingle (42km), Fourcès (52km) and Montréal du Gers (50km), three of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’. Mirande (22km) hosts yet another wonderful market every Monday.
The owners have maps and guides for walkers and cyclists; bike hire can be arranged in advance and bikes delivered to the house. The country roads and lanes in this region are particularly quiet so are most appealing to cyclists of all abilities. Keen hikers can even head to the Pyrenees, a 90-minute drive south, especially wonderful in spring with the wildflowers. Canoeing on the river Baise and fishing are also popular pastimes here.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
(91km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Bordeaux Airport
(198km/2hr30) |
||
| Nearest Airport 3 |
Bergerac
(161km/2hr35) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Local commune
(5km) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
Grocery store
(5km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Auch
(15km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Auch
(15km) |
||
| Nearest Town/City |
Auch
(15km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf D'Embats
(10km) |
||
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 AgesJust a couple of minutes drive away is a donkey farm where you can have free tours taking you around the farm and you can even buy beauty products made from donkey milk!
Hire bikes and head to the riverbank in Auch where you can follow the path, passing beautiful views of the town on one side and reaching stunning parkland on the other at Parc du Couloumé. Parc du Couloumé is a great place for a picnic with amazing views of the old-town and ample space to play games, run around and enjoy the playground.
There is lots of fishing across this region and water-lovers can hire canoes on the River Baise in Beaucaire, just south of Condom. Castéra-Verduzan lake for swimming with waterslides and canoe on the River Baise just south of Condom. In the summer there is also lake swimming and waterslides at Castéra-Verduzan, around 20km away.
Young adventurers can spend the day at the tree-top activity park around 20km away, near Pavie, offering courses for various age ranges from 3+, as well as paintball (ages 8+), electric scooter bikes (ages 14+). Check the opening times which vary from weekend only (with reservations) in spring and autumn to daily in French school holidays.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Boules/Petanque
- Child-Safe Pool
- Indoor Games
- DVD
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Bike Hire Available (delivery to house)
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 available at this property (payable locally):
- Pre-stocked fridge/provisions in advance
- Bike rental with delivery to the house
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
| Security deposit | €600 paid via bank transfer to the owner before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €600 paid via bank transfer to the owner before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Supplements may apply during autumn and winter months. Please note that only the main house has heating, not the separate cottage. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes and mid-stay linen change for stays of two weeks or more also included. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes and a mid-stay clean for stays of two weeks. Please note, 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 rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Changeover day | Saturday. All other changeover days on request. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Strictly outside only. |
| Pets welcome? | No. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and other special events are not permitted. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 9 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Apr 19th 2024 - Jun 22nd 2024 | £3,566 |
| Jun 22nd 2024 - Jun 29th 2024 | £3,681 |
| Jun 29th 2024 - Aug 31st 2024 | £4,027 |
| Aug 31st 2024 - Jun 21st 2025 | £3,681 |
| Jun 21st 2025 - Jun 28th 2025 | £3,681 |
| Jun 28th 2025 - Aug 30th 2025 | £4,027 |
| Aug 30th 2025 - Oct 21st 2025 | £3,681 |
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?
We have owned the property since May 2019
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
Incredible views a...
Owner Profile
How long have you owned the property?
We have owned the property since May 2019
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
Incredible views and location, pure peace and quiet, charming traditional Gascogne stone house.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
Recently owned by a prominent French political and fashion brand family.
For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really…
Must do?
Just enjoy the total peace and tranquillity of beautiful French countryside - You probably won’t want to do anything else.
Must eat?
Fresh produce from the local markets. Wonderful long lunches in our favourite restaurants. Indulge in some of the Gascogne specialities: Duck, Goose, Foie Gras, Wines and Armagnacs.
What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?Even after 20 years of living in the beautiful French Alps we are still amazed by the: ‘Step back in time’ astounding rural scenery and sense of space. The welcoming yet untouristed ambiance of the Gers, it’s wonderful villages and people.
Reviews
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We have fallen in love with Maison des Amis!
The location is wonderful - stunning views, wonderfully peaceful- and a lovely house. Clean and really well equipped- the kitchen had everything you could want. There are lots of different spaces to be in, so we felt comfortable and not at all crowded. The pool is great, all the bedrooms are en-suite and lovely…. Rob and Daniela are the loveliest and most helpful hosts.
We have fallen in love with Maison des Amis!
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We can't wait to return
We discovered THE house of happiness in the middle of the beautiful Gers countryside, with magnificent views over the surrounding fields and as far as the Pyrenees!. We had an excellent 3 week holiday here with our children and grandchildren, and made the most of the wonderful swimming pool. The house is very spacious and beautifully decorated, and the bedrooms are all very spacious and bright with en-suite bathrooms. There were lots of us (grandparents, children and grandchildren) and everyone had their own space. Our hosts, Robert and Daniela, are charming and attentive. They gave us a very warm welcome.
We can't wait to return to this little corner of paradise with family or friends.
Don't hesitate to come to Maison des Amis, you won't regret it! -
Perfect place for quality family time
An amazing property where you have everything available: a fully equipped kitchen, great rooms, stylish living room, a fully equipped cottage, a clean swimming pool and amazing views. We had a wonderful family time. Owners are great. I would certainly recommend for some great quality family time with (or without) kids.
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Excellent stay
We had an excellent stay in this large and beautiful property, very well kept and in an astoundingly peaceful setting. The hosts are charming, discreet and take to heart that their clients are well settled and have a good time. The view is simply splendid and the swimming pool very pleasant. We will be back without a shadow of a doubt.
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Unforgettable stay in the beautiful Gers countryside
We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful property. Beautifully renovated, decorated and furnished. This rural house with it’s separate cottage benefits from an ideal size swimming pool. The breathtaking view of the surrounding Gers countryside is undisturbed by any visual or noise pollution. The absolute calm and the surrounding beauty are among the most remarkable advantages of this house. The owners are lovely and gave us lots of great tips. A perfect stay.
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A fantastic place to relax
This is a fantastic place to relax: beautiful house, great pool and the surroundings are really impressive. Amazing views all around. You can’t hear anything but birds. Maybe the best holiday house we have ever been to. The hosts were just perfect and will always help you whatever questions you might have. Go there!
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Wonderful stay
The welcome from the hosts was so lovely: concern for our well-being, accommodating, advice on the surroundings...! The property is magnificent. The house is very large and tastefully furnished. You just feel really comfortable there. I can recommend this beautiful place 100%!
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We will most definitely be back
A beautiful house, in a stunning tranquil location. You feel like you are in the middle of nowhere, and yet there are huge supermarkets only 15 minutes away in Auch. The house is very spacious, and there are terraces and spaces to sit outside galore, whether you want sunshine or shade. The pool area is immaculate with plenty of loungers, and we ate outside in the evening every day, and found ourselves doing some star gazing afterwards (it is so dark you can see the milky way). The views are stunning - rolling hills, and on a clear day you can see the pyrenees. There is plenty to do nearby - we visited a wonderful market in mirande, the swimming lake at Lupiac for a dip and lunch, and went on a day hike in the Pyrenees. The hosts Robert and Daniela are incredibly welcoming and helpful, sending us tips throughout the week and even bringing us fresh croissants when they came to clean the pool! It doesn' get better than that. We left feeling they were friends, and we will most definitely be back.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
