A drive through pickled-in-the-past villages, and by lush vineyards, through spectacular countryside featuring rocky mountains, limpid lakes and forests where you’ll glimpse fairy tale castles and half expect to bump into knights on horseback, brings you to the unspoiled and authentic Célé Valley – and to the estate of the historic Moulin sur Céle with its collection of luxury accommodation in the Lot for two, four or ten people. If you long to get away from it all, indulge in the most generous gastronomy and divine wines, breathe fresh air and spot stars in an unpolluted sky, enjoy activities galore, and chill out so that all that matters is this moment right now – then this is the place for you.
Luxurious holiday home in the Lot for two
For centuries, Le Malbec was an old barn where where grapes were turned into wine, with the last bottling being in 2007. From the windows of this perched building, you’ll spot the new vineyards planted by owners Marc and Deirdre, former hoteliers who ran the world-famous Harvey’s Point Hotel in Donegal, Ireland. They have brought their know-how, their expertise, and their very warm welcome with them to this most beautiful part of southern France.
Le Malbec has been a passion project for the couple and the team of talented artisans who have worked tirelessly to bring it back to life. The light-filled, stone wall rooms feature soothing colours, wooden beams, and windows with big sky views. In the sitting room that’s flooded with light, there’s a lovely little wood fire, making it cosy even in winter. The fully equipped kitchen means you can go full self-catering – but you won’t want to, there are superb restaurants close by serving traditional dishes and a friendly welcome.
The building’s wine-making past is reflected in the bespoke iron work of the staircase – delicate leaves and grapes, the work of a local blacksmith. From the four-poster bed, there’s a view over the plunge pool, bliss for a dip on a warm day, and the huge and luxurious bathroom has both a shower and a beautiful free standing bath, plus his and her sinks. There’s a pretty patio, with a private plunge pool, perfect for watching the sun set over the Moulin, and for breakfasts as you soak up the countryside ambiance.
Perfect for two, spacious Le Malbec is a romantic retreat, tranquil, unique, and utterly charming.
The level of care and attention that’s gone into this lovely holiday cottage is second to none, and your discretely attentive hosts are on hand to offer a personalised service and make your stay truly unforgettable.
Le Moulin has five en-suite, air-conditioned bedrooms for up to 10 guests and features a bar, private heated swimming pool and gorgeous gardens plus a riverside fire pit.
Le Carral is perfect for four people, two couples, a small family, or friends. With a private heated plung pool, gorgeous copper tub baths and the most amazing views over the Célé Valley.
Experience the Lot – the land that time forgot
The area is perfect for hiking, cycling, history and nature lovers, wine fans, those who love great food and wine, visiting castles and villages where time seems to have stood still like postcard pretty Saint Cirq-Lapopie, officially one of the most beautiful villages in France with its Gothic house and the ruins of a castle carved into the rock, and clifftop villages such as Rocamadour, famous for its Cité Réligieuse, a complex of medieval religious buildings clinging perilously to the rock face.
There are caves and prehistoric art – like the Padirac Cave with its underground lakes and unusual rock formations which you can visit by boat, and the famous Pech Merle Cave with its incredibly vibrant prehistoric rock art see. Discover Figeac with its Renaissance town houses and medieval alleys, Cahors with its 14th century bridge, Pont Valentré, which, according to legend, the devil helped to build.
There are plenty of restaurants and excellent wineries close by, village street markets where you can buy seasonal and local produce (including some irresistible cheeses), fairs and festivals, flea markets, museums. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to sporting activities – from kayaking to horse riding, bike hire can be organised, including e-bikes if you don’t want to sweat it, and hiking in the Parc natural Regional des Causses du Quercy which surrounds Le Moulin and from where you can pick up the ancient pilgrim route of Santiago de Compostela.
Long term rental in the Lot
Le Malbec is also available for longer stays, perfect for those searching for their own dream home in the area, wanting a long break, or able to work remotely.
This part of France really is a little bit of heaven, and Le Malbec is the cherry on the cake!
Find out more about the Le Moulin Collection and discover this charmed part of France for yourself: lemoulinsurcele.com
