Description

Set on a hilltop overlooking the ancient Chateau de Duras in the Lot-et-Garonne region of South West France, this splendidly renovated Maison de Maitre with heated pool is surrounded by vineyards and woodland; yet it is a mere five-minute drive from the charming Bastide town of Duras, with its magnificent castle, its weekly market, restaurants and summer festivals.

Built in 1897, this substantial property has undergone a complete renovation resulting in a refined and comfortable country home for those wishing to experience the authentic French lifestyle. Extensive grounds surround this villa set in a landscape encompassing vineyards and plum orchards, bastide and market towns. Duras and Monsegur showcase the region's fresh fruit and vegetables and delicious cheeses and throughout the summer, you can also visit night markets, often combined with lively music and gastronomic festivals.

Opportunities for outdoor pursuits are countless in this beautiful region and very easy to arrange from your villa. You can have bicycles delivered to your door to explore the surroundings at your leisure; you can hire canoes and kayaks along the river Dropt and enjoy a picnic on its banks; or you can drive to the fresh water lake of Blasimon and spend a day on the beach. Within half-an-hour’s drive you find the larger river Garonne and the river Dordogne is just under an hour for yet more enchanting scenery, boat trips and visits to some picturesque villages and ancient castles. Riding and pony trekking is easily arranged nearby, and there is a popular farm - Chaudron Magique - less than an hour away. At the award-winning garden, Jardin de Boissonna, you can enjoy French afternoon tea. Golfers will enjoy the fabulous Vigiers Golf and Country Club. Jazz fans will enjoy the famous Monsegur Jazz Festival in July. Wine lovers will enjoy tasting tours at the local caves and chateaux and in the splendid ancient town of St Emilion.

Insider Tips

“Luxury house in quiet location, close to to busy town of Duras, this is the perfect family holiday home. The setting is beautiful and still unspoilt, ideal for large family gatherings requiring plenty of room to get away. In nearby Duras you find restaurants - one with live music - quaint shops, a splendid castle and a very useful Tourist Office promoting countless activities and events going on throughout summer in the Lot et Garonne region. You can enjoy a flight on a hot air balloon in Saint Jean de Duras, hire a kayak or a canoe in Allemans-du-Dropt, horseride in Saint-Pierre-sur-Dropt, visit the private cellars and winery cooperatives in the Pays de Duras or discover gorgeous ancient bastide towns in Duras, Monsegur, Eymet and Monpazier. Further afield, in Roquefort, families with children will also love the thrill of the rides at Walibi theme park.    ”