Chateau D'Ax

The villa

The old bones of this 14th century château in Midi - Pyrénées stand proudly on a hectare of green parkland. With sweeping views over the surrounding territory (known for sunflower and wine production), your guests will commune with this countryside on the edge of the Dordogne. Inside, refined authentic furnishings let the château's character shine; stone walls, well - loved brick fireplaces, and mysterious spiral stairs suggest a storied past. Whilst being a historic home, Château D'Ax is also charming holiday accommodation offering modern comforts including quality bedding, comfortable living areas both inside and out, a home cinema and a recently upgraded kitchen with up - to - date appliances.

Up to 26 guests can spread out on the grounds here - they’ll especially love the swimming pool in the summertime and the beautiful terrace with an exceptional view over the preserved landscape - the perfect setting for lovely gatherings at all times with its long tables, outdoor furnishings and barbecue.  Furthermore, a separate apartment in the château lends extra privacy for a large family - it features its own kitchen and living area, and a dorm room with five single beds for the kids.

Just 8km away is Tournon - d'Agenais, a lovely 13th century village with a central square and charming stone arcades - make sure you try some of the delicious apple - based dessert ' tourtiere ' during your visit.

One of France’s most beautiful villages, Pujols, is around half an hour away or spend time visiting the Malbec producing vineyards surrounding the gorgeous town of Cahors on the Lot river. Then there’s canoeing, biking and hiking through the Lot and Célé valleys, castle ruins and many enchanting bastide villages and market towns.

You may fly in through Bergerac, a hub of wine - related commerce for the Dordogne (and certainly worth a pause on your way to the château!).

Château d’Ax is in a tiny village in the Lot department, close to medieval Tournon - d'Agenais and around forty minutes west of Cahors. The nearest airport is Bergerac (76km) whilst Toulouse - Blagnac Airport is about a 90 - minute drive away. The owners can arrange wine - tasting at the adjoining Château d’Ax wine estate as well as neighbouring wineries. E - Bike rental can also be organised in advance (with bikes delivered to the château).

There is a restaurant around 3km away as well as a tennis court within a 5 - minute drive which Château d’Ax guests may use on a complimentary basis. The nearest shops can be found in the lovely village of Tournon - d'Agenais (8km) with its medieval lanes and a picturesque central square - make sure you try some of the apple - based pastry dessert ‘tourtiere’ during your stay.

Montcuq (15km) is home to a brilliant Sunday morning market and is a lovely village to explore with glorious views of the Lot valley. The bastide town of Lauzerte (21km) is another gorgeous place to visit, officially classified as one of France’s ‘ Plus Beaux Villages ’.

Drive around 20 minutes north to the Lot for peaceful picnics, canoeing opportunities and lovely walks with the most beautiful scenery. Summer boat trips depart from Puy - l'Évêque, a charming village perched above the river with an attractive Tuesday morning market. A little further away is Villeneuve - sur - Lot (34km), a historic bastide town which could be combined with Pujols, another one of France’s most beautiful villages with many wonderful views.

Heading east, Cahors (37km) is known for its famous bridge, Pont Valentré, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Pick up all sorts of regional delights from the twice - weekly market including Quercy melons when in season, and stroll around the captivating historic centre with its medieval lanes, pretty squares and impressive cathedral.