To book telephone Peter or Lucy Roberts 0044(0)1985844256

Or e-mail: peter_roberts_uk@yahoo.co.uk

Mas  de Paul is found on the edge of a small hill top hamlet surrounded by beautiful wooded country side and pastures that are full of flowers in Spring. The area is part of ‘La France Profonde’ and this indicates just how far the farm is from the hustle and bustle of modern life; the area is spared the crush of crowds even in high season. Although off the beaten track there is still lots to do as you will see below; but if you prefer to relax and unwind you can leave the car parked and go for a swim or follow one of the many tracks and trails on foot or even on bike. The pool is heated and is always warm even early and late in the season, the jacuzzi is an indulgent treat.

Exploring the local countryside and towns can fill many happy days. The countryside around is spectacular with deep valleys, gorges and limestone ‘causses’. The nearby River Viaur is crystal clear and there are a number of beautiful riverside ‘plages’ that are ideal for swimming and summer picnics. There is a supervised swimming area in Laguepie with platforms and inflatables that is very popular in summer. The area is well known for the quality of the local produce, do sample the local Gaillac wine and a tour of the vineyards is recommended

The rivers in the local area provide the finest fishing  in the region with the local streams, La Bonnette, La Seye and La Baye all being classified in the 'first category'. An adult holiday fishing card for 15 days costs 30 euros and under 16s only 4 euros.

A stay with us would not be complete without a kayak trip through the amazing 'Gorges de l'Aveyron'; some visitors have kayaked several times during their stay and children usually love it! Kayaks can be hired in Najac, Laguepie and St Antonin as well as other locations.

Horse riding and pony trekking can make an exciting day out and  ponies can be hired in Najac, Parisot, Caylus and St Antonin amongst other local towns. Horse and buggy rides can also be arranged locally for a really fun family excursion.

The limestone landscape is associated with extensive cave systems and the limestone cliffs and gorges flanking the Aveyron River are a focus for rock climbers and hang gliding

Carmaux near Albi, about 45 minutes away, has a terrific park for the whole family. Entrance to Cap'Decouverte  is free of charge, though some activities must be paid for. Dry slope skiing and snow boarding, zip-lining, skating  and tobogganing go on all summer long. If you prefer there are mountain bikes, the  Skate park, Mini karts, or simply spend time in the huge swimming pool, or visit the Mining Museum or Titan Park ?

Najac, about a 10-minute drive away, is a delightful medieval town that straddles a steep sided ridge overlooking the Aveyron River. The imposing castle is open to the public in summer and it provides a stunning backdrop to occasional firework displays! The night market which is held every Wenesday evening in the summer is great fun, trestle tables fill the market square and there is live music with lots of stalls selling locally produced food and of course wine.

Cordes sur Ciel is a captivating hill top town about 20 minutes away; it enjoys an international reputation and is a thriving artistic centre. Its steep cobbled streets and shady Italianate cloisters make it a magical place that attracts large numbers of tourists. The 'train' ride to the top is great fun!  

Villefranche de Rouergue is about a 25 minute drive away; it is a medieval ‘bastide’ town with a spectacular cathedral and market square. Its Thursday market, which spills out from the central square through the surrounding ancient alleyways, is one of the largest in the area and a coffee or beer at one of the cafe tables overlooking the square is highly recommended.  

St Antonin Noble Val is approximately 15 minutes away; it is a pretty medieval market town on the banks of the Aveyron River. The movie Charlotte Gray was filmed here and it is a centre for canoeing and kayaking trips through the dramatic Aveyron Gorge. Its Sunday market is well known through out the region and should not be missed!  

The Beautiful red brick city of Albi is just over half an hour away. You can buy an 'Albi pass' from the tourist office for 5.50 euros and this gives discounts on all the tourist sites referred to below. Albi's soaring brick cathedral is unique and the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum is nearby. The pedestrianised streets are crammed with inviting small boutiques and cafes; river trips can be taken along the River Tarn from below the cathedral. A modern leisure pool with flumes and slides is on the northern edge of the town and makes a great family day out! (Do note swimming shorts are NOT permitted in public swimming pools in France!) The Albi golf course is exceptional being fringed by the Tarn river on one side, whilst the dramatic Sainte-Cécile cathedral looks down on it.

Some of the most beautiful small towns in France are found within a short drive of the farmstead, most have fine local markets selling seasonal regional produce, all are worth a visit.