Aquitaine, Lot-et-Garonne, St-Maurin, France

A village house with manners
Discreetly tucked away behind a gated entrance in the heart of Saint Maurin's historic district, this magnificent restored 19th-century stone house sits a good distance from the road in a peaceful, private setting that gives the impression all the neighbors have agreed to keep quiet. A large, wooded garden and views of the surrounding countryside complete the picture, which is almost exactly what you imagine when you first say, "I'd like to live in France."
The House
Presented in immaculate condition, the house has been restored with an elegant touch and features an original stone facade covered with plaster. Modern amenities are present where they matter: a reversible heat pump (cool in July, warm in January) and double glazing.
The ultra-stylish and modern kitchen is equipped with built-in appliances and travertine flooring, and a door leads directly onto the terrace, which is the only logical place to have your morning coffee.
The living room has two pairs of French doors opening onto the garden, an open fireplace, a beamed ceiling, and tiled floors. It's the kind of room that makes people say, "We could stay here all evening," and then they do.
Accommodation
Ground floor: A cozy corner, just as pleasant as a fourth bedroom, and an elegant modern bathroom, clad in travertine.
First floor: Three charming bedrooms, a second travertine bathroom, and an essential dressing room or office. Essential, because every home needs a place to retreat to, whether it's to organize clothes or to dress up to answer emails.
Outside
A mosaic terrace encircling the entire building is set within a beautifully landscaped garden, complete with a pergola and another terrace for al fresco dining. There is also a garage/workshop with a sliding door and ample parking for cars, bicycles, and ambitious DIY projects, ensuring everyone has a suitable space.
The Village
The local supermarket is just a short walk away. It sells everything you could possibly need, also serves as a café-restaurant when you don't feel like making your own coffee, and on some evenings, it even transforms into a restaurant. I have to admit, it's my favorite store.
Saint Maurin is a town rich in history, its ancient abbey being one of its highlights. Agen, with its fast TGV train to Paris, is just a 25-minute drive away, while Toulouse airport is about an hour and a quarter away. The surrounding landscape is dotted with historic fortified towns and is one of the most beautiful imaginable.
All that remains is opening the packages and the pleasure of consuming them.