Village house with pool and garden

The Tower, Lauzerte

Forming the tower of a former 16th-century château, this is a property that “pretty special” simply doesn’t cover. Restored over the last twenty years by an owner of truly fastidious standards (and a budget to match), the result is spectacular. I hate to say “once in a lifetime”, but here, annoyingly, it’s true.

The House

Two bedrooms, each with its own en suite, and a roll top bath in each one, set against original terracotta floor tiles. The finish is quite simply magnificent, restored regardless of cost, and it shows.

The period features are everywhere you look: handsome stonework, impressive fireplaces, beamed ceilings. Name a feature and it has almost certainly got it.

The rustic kitchen is simple but beautiful, with a vaulted ceiling and a stone work top and sink. Next door, the sitting room has been restored with impeccable taste. Modern comforts have not been forgotten, with a pompe à chaleur heating system and double glazing quietly doing their work.

Outside

The substantial stone barn could be a games room, guest annex, gym or whatever you fancy. There is even scope to divide the property into two separate houses if required.

Built into the hillside is a superb swimming pool with stone margelles, an electric cover and views that will make you forget to swim. Add a village courtyard and a low-maintenance garden, and you have outdoor space without the weekend labour.

All of this sits behind an iron-gated entrance, set back from the road, so the only thing likely to disturb you is the view.

The Location

In the centre of the thriving historic town of Lauzerte, with restaurants, shops, art galleries and cafés all within walking distance. It works equally well as a permanent home or the best lock-up-and-leave you could imagine.

• Montcuq: 10 minutes by car
• Montauban: 38 minutes
• Toulouse airport: 1 hour 10 minutes