Stunning, family-friendly farmhouse; large garden, safe private pool

This carefully restored 17c farmhouse is a textbook example of the Quercynoix style - pigeonnier, covered bolet (balcony), souillarde, two inglenook fireplaces. Superbly situated in a hilltop hamlet, perched above an authentic working village, it's generous accommodation could suit a three-generation family or two big families.
Extensive grounds include a safe private 10m pool in its own attractive stone walled garden with two secure gates. There is also a large flat grassy area for games, a shady raised terrace for dining and a barbecue. There is extra seating in the shaded bolet.
Facilities; washing machine room, two shower rooms (three rooms with wcs and two with bidets), well equipped kitchen (dishwasher, microwave), wood burning stove. For those with young children, there is a bespoke wooden stair gate, two cots and a high chair.
The area boasts magnificent unspoilt scenery, fine regional and romanesque architecture and affordable gastronomy. The property was selected recently for the Alastair Sawday's 'Special Places to Stay in France' guide. There is a diverse range of attractions in the locality - a zoo, a monkey park, 'Reptiland' and an increasing number of low impact 'green tourism' activities, such as canoeing, which makes this an ideal base for families with children of all ages.

History: This majestic farmhouse dates from the late 17th century. Its ancient architectural features of pagoda-like roof, pigeonnier tower, bolet covered balcony and souillarde (a stone vaulted washing area) evoke an atmosphere of past centuries in this most beautiful and historic region of rural France. Standing high above a village in a hamlet of five dwellings, the house has been carefully restored over the three decades by skilled local masons and carpenters. It is described locally as a Maison Bourgeoise due to its grand appearance and size.

Location: The peaceful hilltop location affords lovely views to open countryside and across a charming village roofscape with church and chateau bellow. The extensive grounds include an enclosed private pool, mature trees, shady terraces and a large, flat paddock, ideal for garden games. This rambling farmhouse provides comfortable accommodation for large parties that might include several families.

Cuisine and activities: The region is renowned both for its gastronomy (spicy, full-bodied Cahors, confits, foie gras, fragrant cèpe wild mushrooms) and for offering cultural and leisure opportunities to suit all tastes. There are historic towns with regular markets, unspoilt villages, chateaux and museums, canoeing, biking and horse-riding together with numerous prehistoric caves to explore. There are also many cultural events, concerts and festivals in the region (jazz and classical music at Souillac, Assier, St Céré, Rocamadour) or guests can simply sample the cuisine at one of the excellent local restaurants. Alternatively the evening might be spent with a barbecue on the raised terrace overlooking the floodlit pool!