History lives and breathes at this 14th century house in Midi-Pyrénées. A winding lane through a dairy farm delivers you to this mas, an achingly charming retreat to simpler times in Aveyron. The original stone walls aren’t just a facade; inside, the rough-hewn kitchen and stairs in the tower testify to the years that have passed. Climb up past the tiny chapel to the lookout tower, where the rolling hills unfurl beneath you.
Nods to the past are everywhere, from the medieval-style art on the walls to the antique sewing machine in one of the bedrooms. Even the modernised bathrooms have walls of rough stone. The formal dining room recalls a moodier time, with stone walls and floors, heavy wooden doors, and intricate textiles. For some time in the sun, head out to the stone patio shaded by the trees and make the most of the glorious swimming pool.
The nearest village is Auzits, a 5-minute drive away, but you'll want to head a little further to Firmi or Cransac for supplies. Natural beauty is everywhere - if you're up for an hour's drive, consider the caverns at Pech-Merle. The nearest town of note is Rodez, 32km away - try the fouace (a sweet bread) for breakfast and pick up a wealth of delicious regional produce at the twice-weekly market before returning to your historic holiday home.
Features:
Mas Interiors
Ground Floor
- Open-plan living and dining room
- Kitchen (reached via the walk through fireplace)
- Pantry
- Utility room
- Bedroom/study with two single beds and en suite bathroom
Mezzanine Floor (via old spiral staircase)
- Master bedroom with two single beds, stone fireplace and en suite bathroom
First Floor (via old spiral staircase)
- Bedroom with double bed
- Bedroom with two single beds
- Small study
- Consecrated chapel (attached to study) and bathroom
Top Floor
- Old watchtower – small room with breathtaking views
Outside Grounds
- Swimming pool (10x5m) accessed via locked gate. Open approximately June to September
- Sunset terrace
- Outdoor table and chairs
- Coal barbecue
- Garden and grounds
Other Facilities
- Indoor raised chimney
Location:
In the rolling countryside of Aveyron, Mas De Beauce is set in a little hamlet in a rural location around half an hour from Rodez. Whether you're a lover of history, food, or the great outdoors, this remote region promises a rich experience.
Access to Mas De Beauce is via a working dairy farm. The herd are taken to pastures nearby out of sight to graze by day. There are, however, two donkeys who call the property home. Their names are Paco and Rabanne, a mother and son who are both very friendly and gregarious!
From lively farmer’s markets bursting with fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and handcrafted pottery to the bakeries of Firmi and Cransac, both a 10-minute drive away, filling the air with the scent of warm baguettes, every day brings a new delight across this region. For those who appreciate fine wine, the nearby vineyards of Marcillac-Vallon (15km) offer tastings of their renowned reds/
Beyond the local culinary delights, this area is a stone’s throw from some of Aveyron’s most enchanting sights. The medieval village of Belcastel (23km), perched above the river, is a picturesque masterpiece, while Conques (21km), with its stunning Romanesque church of Ste Foy, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and lovers of architecture alike.
Venture a little further, and you'll find the timeless charm of Villefranche-de-Rouergue (42km), a 13th-century bastide town centred around a striking church tower, or the romantic setting of Najac (67km), where a single medieval street leads to an imposing fortress high above the Aveyron River.
Rodez (32km), with its impressive Gothic cathedral and fascinating Soulages Museum, offers a blend of history and contemporary art, making it an essential stop for culture seekers.
For those drawn to nature, the Aveyron offers a wealth of outdoor adventures. Explore quiet country lanes by foot or bike, or take to the water with canoeing and kayaking on the Lot and Célé rivers. Swim in secluded spots, fish in the nearby lakes, or, for the thrill-seekers, try water skiing in Cajarc, less than an hour by car from your holiday home.
Terms & Conditions:
Security deposit?
£500 or €750 charged to clients' credit card prior to arrival and refunded four weeks after departure, subject to full inspection.
Arrival time?
5.00 p.m.
Departure time?
9.00 a.m.
Energy costs included?
Included in the rental price. There may be a charge for the low seasons.
Linen & towels included?
All linen and towels are included in the rental price.
Pets welcome?
No. Please note that the farmers in the neighbouring house own a couple of friendly dogs.
End of stay cleaning included?
Yes, standard changeover clean included. 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.
Changeover day?
Friday. All other changeover days on request.
Smoking Allowed?
Not allowed.
Insurance?
It is recommended that all guests take out insurance to cover against potential cancellation and any accidental damage caused during your stay at the property.
Pool opening dates?
The pool is open approximately June to September. Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming. Children under 16 should be supervised by the pool.
Other Ts and Cs?
The owner requires an agreement to be signed upon booking confirmation.
Weddings and any special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. Stag/hen parties are not allowed.
Minimum stay?
7 nights. Short-breaks (a minimum of 3 nights) may be possible with prior agreement outside July, August, Christmas and New Year - please enquire.
Pool towels included?
Yes.
Smoking - not allowed
