‘The Village’ in Gascony: Holiday accommodation for large groups and families

Without a doubt one of the best places for a large family or group holiday in South West France, The Village in Gascony is truly unique - an extraordinary place to visit and a wonderfully romantic place to stay. The Village is now a scattering of 14 very attractive holiday rental houses and cottages, grouped around cobbled streets, open spaces and pretty gardens, all within the massive stone perimeter wall of the 13th century castle that once provided them with shelter from attack.  Most of the surviving properties date from before the 16th century, and they have all been stylishly and sympathetically restored to show their architectural and historical heritage combined with contemporary elegance and comfort. 

Castelnau des Fieumarcon (known as ‘The Village’) is a former fortified village that sits on top of a hill with superb views in one of the most attractive parts of Gascony.  It is conveniently located between the two charming and vibrant market towns of Lectoure and Condom. Both are on one of the main pilgrim routes across Gascony to the famous shrine of Santiago de Compostela in North West Spain. The extraordinarily beautiful small mediaeval village of La Romieu, with its 14the century Collegiate Church and cloister, is only 10 minutes away.

The origins of the Fieumarcon Stronghold can be traced back to the 12the century and there are connections with King Richard (‘The Lionheart’) of England who was also Duke of Aquitaine and Gascony.  As the Fieumarcon family prospered, more people built their homes near the ‘New Castle’ (‘Castelnau’ in the ancient Occitan language of Gascony) and by the 17th century the population of the thriving village had grown to 36 families. By the end of the 18th century, family deaths and political change had unfortunately led to the collapse of the community, the village and the castle.  

By the 1960s the village was in ruins and in 1978 all that remained was the 17the century stables, the castle walls with 17 ruined houses inside them, and the 13th century church.  This was when Frederic Coustols bought the ruined village and started his brilliant and visionary 20-year program of architectural restoration. 

The Village today is superbly managed by Anneli Faiers, who lives on site and is also the onsite private chef. Anneli will help you as much or as little as you require, and will be happy to organise your breakfasts, lunches, bespoke dinners, BBQs, brunches, picnics, or buffets - what could be better than to start your day with Anneli's 'Breakfast in a Basket', delivered each morning direct to your lovely holiday house in The Village!

The Village is used at certain times of the year for weddings, events, and other functions.  When available, the 14 individual properties are for rent through Simply Gascony, singly or several together, for parties of between two and 40 people - or you can rent the whole village to accommodate 80 people in total.  

The Village is particularly well-suited for short stays (minimum two nights) outside the summer season. Eight of the properties advertised by Simply Gascony have wood-burning fireplaces and central heating, so are ideal for an autumn or spring visit.

Gascony is best known for its glorious summer season throughout July and August. During the rest of the year, Gascony is quieter but still full of charm and there is plenty to see and do. In May, June, September and October the weather is often lovely but a little cooler than in high Summer. Christmas and New Year are great fun, and you have the extra option of wonderful skiing in the Pyrenees, where the season often continues into April.

We understand that Covid-19 is making international travel difficult during 2021, that’s why we’re offering a ‘No-Risk’ booking promise for all holidays this year. Learn more here.

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