Villa in Lauzerte, Tarn-et-Garonne

A rare and rather wonderful stone farmhouse near LauzerteJust five minutes from the historic and lively town of Lauzerte, this charming 19th-century stone country house sits proudly in the heart of its own small hamlet. It has been lovingly restored by its current owners with great care and (we suspect) a good dose of patience. The result is a home that has lost none of its original character while gaining modern comforts.Hidden behind a gate and enjoying a commanding position, the house offers views of rolling countryside that seem to stretch to infinity. You will have few neighbors, your views will be unobstructed, and your only real daily commute will be from the terrace to the pool.The HouseInside, the décor is elegant and tasteful. The open-plan living space revolves around a comfortable sitting room with a wood-burning stove. The modern, fully equipped kitchen, with its built-in appliances, is stunning and opens onto the living room, so the cook is never far from the conversation or the fire. Travertine flooring runs throughout the house, and the three bedrooms share two stylish bathrooms, one clad in travertine and the other elegantly tiled. Double glazing and oil-fired central heating ensure cozy comfort when the weather turns bad, and plenty of storage space is provided for anyone who has ever wondered, 'Where on earth are we going to put all this?'OutsideA large covered terrace is perfect for leisurely al fresco lunches that stretch into dinner without anyone noticing. The swimming pool has its own covered terrace, a summer kitchen, and a sun deck, all with fabulous views. Beyond lie mature gardens and a private wooded area, where one can easily lose an afternoon (or a teenager).Notable extrasGuest house: a one-bedroom refuge for friends staying just long enough to feel welcome, or an attractive option for vacation rentalsWorkshop, shops and garage: easily convertible should you ever need more living space.Cellar and well: for wine and water, in that order of importanceIn summaryCharming, elegant, and self-assured, this is the idyllic French country house you've been dreaming of. The only question is whether you'll spend your first morning by the pool or your first evening on the terrace. Either way, you'll be hard to find.