La Maison Des Harmonies
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Overview
The owners of this wonderfully converted 4-bedroom farmhouse in Gascony have opened their doors to allow discerning holiday makers to exclusively experience the character and beauty of their home and swimming pool, located within a glorious estate with views of the undulating Gers countryside.
Just a short cycle ride or drive to Marciac, home of the famous summer jazz festival, the main house at Maison des Harmonies combines historic charm with contemporary design. Once a farmhouse in the 1700s, a 21st century sculptor brought the building back to life taking great care to preserve its heritage whilst adding architecturally unique features such as the modern staircase and mezzanine level. The home’s current owners took over the project just a few years ago, landscaping the glorious grounds to create an idyllic retreat steeped in history.
Enter the 4-bedroom farmhouse through the impressive entrance hall which leads straight through to an elegant dining area and cosy lounge with French windows opening out to the covered terrace. A high-ceilinged classic yet modern kitchen also awaits with a stylish kitchen island and Wi-Fi controlled pellet burner to create an ambience of warmth, alongside an adjoining TV lounge. Upstairs, beneath the eaves, find four delightful bedrooms, each one named after famous singers, alongside three en suite shower rooms and a family bathroom. We especially love the master bedroom with its king-size double and large window allowing light to flood in to the room.
Sit beneath the covered terrace for al-fresco meals with family and friends or take a stroll across to the gorgeous swimming pool and its raised dining terrace with the most idyllic vistas towards the gentle hills of Gascony, a region known as the ‘Tuscany of France’. Find a pretty spot for a glass of Armagnac or wine from nearby vineyards (Saint Mont and Madiran are half an hour away) and take a walk around the large natural pond within the one-hectare estate.
It's just 5km to reach the charming town of Marciac – why not make the most of the estate’s two electric bikes to grab croissants and fresh bread in the morning. As well as its huge main square, weekly market, atmospheric cafes and welcoming restaurants, Marciac is renowned for the ‘Jazz in Marciac’ festival that takes place over three weeks from late July and attracts big-name artists and visitors from across the world.
Meanwhile, enjoy long walks, cycling and horse-riding through the Gers countryside, visit some of the region’s historic market towns and picture-perfect villages, or venture south to Tarbes and Lourdes in the Hautes-Pyrénées in the true heart of southern France.
What you should know…
- It’s a gorgeous house for families – a cot, highchair, stairgate and children’s books/toys can be provided on request. Please do supervise young children on the upstairs landing/mezzanine and also outside across the grounds, especially by the natural pond, swimming pool and poolside raised terrace.
- There is an adjacent smaller villa next door to the estate (this is not included in the rate). This will not be rented out separately but there is a possibility that the hospitable but very kind owners may be present.
Property Features
Farmhouse Interiors (295m2)
Ground Floor
- Entrance hall with staircase
- Lounge with open fireplace and doors leading to covered terrace
- Dining area
- Kitchen, well-equipped including kitchen island, American fridge, double oven, dishwasher, pellet burner (Wi-Fi connected) and doors leading to covered terrace
- TV lounge
- Cloakroom
First Floor (via contemporary curved staircase)
- Landing overlooking entrance hall below
- Mezzanine area with desk overlooking kitchen below
- Bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite shower room
- Bedroom with double bed and en suite shower room
- Bedroom with double bed and en suite shower room
- Bedroom with double bed
- Family bathroom with bath tub, sink and WC
Some of the double bedrooms feature low ceilings and dormer/small windows
Outside Grounds
- Swimming pool (8.5x4.5m) with safety alarm. Open approximately May to end-September
- Raised poolside covered dining terrace
- Poolside covered drinks terrace
- Covered terrace for al-fresco dining
- Landscaped grounds (one hectare) with places to relax
- Large natural pond with 120m long path around the pond
- Terrace overlooking the pond
- Electric adult bikes (x2) belonging to the estate
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Heating
- Fans (bedrooms)
- Smart TV
- Small library
- Board games
- Children’s books and toys
- Electric adult bikes (x2)
- Washing machine and dryer
Location
About the surrounding area of La Maison Des HarmoniesLa Maison des Harmonies is set within a one-hectare estate with the most beautiful views of the Gers countryside in a region also known as the Tuscany of France. Just 5km away is the charming town of Marciac, famous for its annual jazz festival that attracts musicians from across the world.
You can make the most of La Maison des Harmonies’ two electric bikes and cycle to Marciac or it’s just a 5-minute drive to reach its historic centre. The fortified town dates back to the 13th century and is home to cafes, restaurants, a pharmacy and a good-sized supermarket as well as a vibrant market on a Wednesday morning. The famous jazz festival usually takes place from late July to mid-August – the festival is over forty years old and the town has welcomed big names in the past such as Ray Charles and Dizzy Gillespie. Lac de Marciac (7km) lies just to the north with its nature walks, carp fishing and summer pedalo hire.
The much-loved Golf du Château Pallanne is only 13km away whilst wine-lovers note that the vineyards of Saint Mont and Madiran can be reached within half an hour to forty minutes. There are various walking and hiking routes, cycling trails and horse-riding opportunities to discover, all wonderful ways to truly appreciate the undulating scenery of Gascony and beyond. Heading south, the most adventurous guests can easily reach the foothills of the Pyrenees.
Driving into the Hautes-Pyrénées, admire stunning views towards the mountains when visiting Tarbes (35km) on the Adour River, home to the especially impressive Jardin Massey, a 19th century landscaped park, and the Cathédrale Notre Dame de la Sède. Horse enthusiasts should head to the French National Monument, Haras National de Tarbes, whilst the covered market will delight gastronomes on a Thursday morning.
The fascinating network of caves can be found at Grottes de Bétharram (70km), just over an hour away, perhaps combined with a trip to Lourdes (58km) which welcomes millions of visitors every year.
Back in the Gers, Auch (52km) is the historic capital of Gascony and a ‘City of Art and History’, also the gateway to other gems of this region such as the historic market towns of Fleurance, Lectoure and Condom. If you can find the time, venture to the trio of Gers villages, Larressingle, Montréal and Fourcès, all classified as three of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’ and reached in just over an hour by car.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Tarbes–Lourdes–Pyrénées Airport
(45km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Pau-Pyrenees Airport
(62km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Gare de Tarbes
(35km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
Marciac
(5km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Marciac
(5km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
U Express et Drive
(6.5km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf du Château Pallanne
(13km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis |
Tennis Club Marciacais
(5km) |
||
Region
A relatively new addition to France, the Midi-Pyrénées was created to surround the cultural capital of Toulouse in the late 1970s. You might think that its relative youth would mean the Midi-Pyrénées is short on character or identity, but remember, this is France we’re talking about – the whole country is steeped in history and tradition. Encompassing parts of Gascony, Languedoc, the Gers and several others, you’ll get a varied slice of the whole French experience here, not least if you stay at one of our beautiful chateaux in the Midi-Pyrénées! And if you want to discover the best of what the region has to offer, our Midi-Pyrénées travel guide is here to show you where to go, what to eat and how you can make the best of your break with some amazing activities.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesIn this part of the Gers, discover wonderful walking opportunities, horse-riding and cycling. Perhaps start off at nearby Lac de Marciac, the perfect spot for long walks, fishing and even pedalo hire in the height of the summer.
Near the banks of L’Adour in Jû-Belloc, the wildlife refuge at La Maison de l'eau is home to native turtles, kingfishers and a variety of other birds, a peaceful place for long nature walks, cycle rides and even occasional canoeing trips. Bird lovers will also appreciate the Parc aux Rapaces, just half an hour away by car.
You are also well located for reaching the La Forêt domaniale de l’Armagnac, an ideal playground for hikers and keen mountain bikers.
Heading north to Nogaro, around a 40-minute drive away, Vélorail de l'Armagnac is a fun family activity where you cycle ‘railbikes’ along a 12km disused railway line. Meanwhile, car racing enthusiasts should look out for the Circuit Paul Armagnac.
Finally, history lovers young and old will love a trip to Musée d'Artagnan in Lupiac where you can learn all about the famous musketeer in his birthplace.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Stair gates
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Animal farm
- Amusement park
- Kid-friendly museum
- Kid-friendly excursions
- Water excursions/Boat trips
- <1hr to Airport
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Children's books
- Board games
- Child-Safe Pool
- Bicycles Provided
- Toys
Services Available
- Maid Service Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Pre-Stocked Fridge Available
- Transfers Available
- Maid Service Available
- Welcome Hamper (local products and wine) Included
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
Extras included at this property:
- Welcome Hamper (local products and wine)
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Daily housekeeping
- Taxi transfers from airport
- Pre-stocked fridge/shopping service
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
| Security deposit | £2000 charged to client’s credit card as a pre-authorisation one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 3.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 11.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | £2000 charged to client’s credit card as a pre-authorisation one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 3.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 11.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, changed once for stays of more than 14 nights. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes and mid-stay cleaning for stays of more than 14 nights also included. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately May to end-September. Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax payable locally in cash (typically costs €1-€10 per adult per night- please enquire if exact amount is required). |
| Changeover day | Saturday. Other changeover days are on request. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights (5-night stays may be possible, on request, as long as they do not cross over the Saturday). |
| Pets welcome? | Not allowed. |
| Smoking Allowed? | No. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | There is also a smaller house on the estate next to the farmhouse. Please note there is a possibility that the hospitable yet discreet owners may sometimes be staying in this smaller villa next door. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 8 people:
| Rental period | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|
| Nov 29th 2024 - Dec 21st 2024 | £2,151 | £3,010 |
| Dec 21st 2024 - Jan 4th 2025 | £4,302 | £6,020 |
| Jan 4th 2025 - Feb 15th 2025 | - | £3,010 |
| Feb 15th 2025 - Feb 22nd 2025 | - | £4,515 |
| Feb 22nd 2025 - Mar 29th 2025 | - | £3,010 |
| Mar 29th 2025 - Apr 5th 2025 | - | £4,515 |
| Apr 5th 2025 - Jun 27th 2025 | - | £3,387 |
| Jun 27th 2025 - Jul 19th 2025 | - | £4,139 |
| Jul 19th 2025 - Aug 9th 2025 | - | £4,892 |
| Aug 9th 2025 - Sep 6th 2025 | - | £4,139 |
| Sep 6th 2025 - Jun 2nd 2026 | - | £3,387 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
• When did you become the owner?
We first viewed the property in October 2012 on a visit to the region and we bought it in April 2014.
• What was it about...
Read moreOwner Profile
• When did you become the owner?
We first viewed the property in October 2012 on a visit to the region and we bought it in April 2014.
• What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The beautiful setting of the property (set in the middle of breathtaking views) and the architectural design of the renovations of both the main house and the villa next door.
• Are there any interesting stories in its history?
The property belonged to a local farming family, they lived up the road and used the main house as a pigsty and the adjoining building to keep cows and feed for the animals. Over the years they stopped the activity and the building fell into disrepair. In 2003 a British Sculptor and photographer for Vogue and his model wife bought the property and set about designing their dream home and renovating it. It took them nearly 10 years to complete the internal work. When we arrived, we set about finishing the outside and landscaping the grounds and this is when we discovered there was a water source and a large lake in the grounds.
• Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
Yes, we have had a minister, a president of Total and his many VIP guests, The Prefet du Gers, The Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana, USA and his party, ….
• For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really…
Must see and do?
1. Visit Marciac down the road – Lively bastide village with many bars, restaurants, 100-seater cinema, 600-seater theatre, the market on Wednesdays, The Jazz in Marciac Museum, …
2. Visit the North of the Gers starting in Eauze (Capital of Armagnac) and on to the fortress of Larresingle and on to La Romieu and the pretty town of Lectoure before heading back via Auch the capital of the county.
3. Go up to the Pyrenees in summer for breathtaking views and amazing walks (Pont d’Espagne, Pic du Midi, Pic du Gers …) and in Winter for skiing (La Mongie, Cauterets,…)
4. Head to the beautiful beaches on the Atlantic coast (Moliets ideal for young families or the bustling Biarritz or the sophisticated Saint Jean-de-Luz)
5. A trip to San Sebastian in the Spanish Basque country, is a must and if you can spare the time go on to the beautiful fishing village of Getaria.
Must eat and drink?
1. The Gers and Gascony are famous for good food at the heart of this is Duck and Fois Gras, Noir de Bigorre (Pigs) for pork and especially noir de Bigorre Jambon (we’ll give guests addresses of where to get the best products)
2. The Gers is home to three wine appellations, the well-known Cote de Gascogne or the lesser known Madiran and St Mont. Chateaux and Domains are open for wine and Armagnac tasting. (We’ll provide addresses of the best chateaux to visit)
3. Gascony is most famous for Armagnac (Cognac equivalent). There are many chateaux and domains locally producing this spirit. The local aperitif of Gascony is Floc made of fresh grape juice and Armagnac. It can be taken on its own or as long Floc and Tonic or Floc Mojito drink.
• What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
Take the time to enjoy the beautiful views surrounding the property. Enjoy a walk to the Village of St Justin (A mile away) or take a long walk around the property on the many ridges for views of the Pyrenees you’ll not forget.
Reviews
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Great property
La Maison Des Harmonies is a great property in a lovely location, close to the vibrant town of Marciac.
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Séjour de rêve
Excellent séjour, adorable maison, notre hôte est charmant, et à tout fait pour rendre ce séjour parfait. Idéalement placé pour assister au festival jazz in Marciac. Excellent pdj on top!!!
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A beautiful place close to Marciac
Very nice place, great location, very comfortable and clean. Wonderful hosts make the stay a real pleasure.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
