Herrliches Landhaus Apartment In Bucolic Gascogne

Gascony remains relatively undiscovered and an absolute gem for those who find their way here. There is a reason for this - Gascony has no obvious or well known tourist attractions so to speak of. Whilst the likes of the Lot, Perigord and Dordogne are trampled down every year, Gascony remains authentic, intact and off the beaten track.

In summer the fields are abundant with bright, smiling sunflowers (figuratively speaking) and rolling hills (figuratively, again) dotted with oak woodlands and pine forests. There is no light pollution at night, making the clear night sky an enormous canvas of stars - something of great interest to normal people and nerds alike.

And what better way to wind down every day with local seasonal produce you can cook at home, sit outside on the terrace and marvel at another day truly well spent in such a delightful and charming part of the world - even if you have managed to really do bugger all other than buy some ripe and delicious cheese.

There is nothing particularly extravagant or designer magazine worthy about this property. Simplicity, on the other hand, has its own subtle beauty. And it is a perfectly simple stone cottage in a very special region of great natural beauty. Dating back to the early 1800s, the cottage has many of the original features such as the thick stone walls, wood burning fireplace and traditional oak beams. It's the ideal country base from which to set out on mini excursions of the area, unravel its history and culture. Yet the cottage is still only a short drive into the lively town of Nerac. It's also very hard to find a small property for two that is not a hotel room that offers 72 sq m (775 sq ft) of living space, separate king bedroom, kitchen, salon, dining area, a separate office (ideal for writers) and large bathroom, along with a private terrace and gardens. For a couple seeking a quiet, personal break or holiday in an unspoilt, non touristy, charming and pretty region of France - it's about as perfect as anyone could find or wish for.

As yet, we've no pool - but don't let such small matters deter you - there are plenty of public recreational swimming options in the area, including a hilariously 'Roman Ruins' themed swimming park in the local town.

As even the brashest of budget airlines seem to charge an absolute king's ransom for weekend flights in the high season, the cottage is available to rent on the less prohibitive days of the week - so guests can book Tuesday-Tuesday or Wednesday-Wednesday if they wish and take the advantage of the economies to be made. Guests taking their own car can also avoid the nightmare of Saturday travel through France in peak season.