Château de Galaup

This stunning country château is one of the most impressive properties we have had the privilege to offer. In their search for the right property the owners discovered Château de Galaup, not far from the pretty hilltop village of Beauville, fell in love and began a renovation project, giving it a new lease of life as an exquisite and unique family home with modern day comforts. We are delighted they did as the château offers beautiful accommodation alongside a heated pool and a full-size tennis court. We can only imagine what the 15th Century occupants would think of their castle now!

The layers of history are evident in the stone entrance archway, the square keep, terraces and mullioned windows. Inside, discover two stone spiral staircases which breathe history, immense fireplaces that date back centuries, thick stone walls and huge wood beams, original terracotta floor, which together form a fascinating backdrop to one of the loveliest interiors we have ever seen.

As the accompanying images show, relaxed elegance is the theme. From the deep sofas in the living room, the stunning family bathroom to the fabulous mix of contemporary and antique furniture, the quality of the furnishings and fittings shines through. In our opinion every room has something special but in particular we would highlight the kitchen diner and the principal bedroom. The combination of stone walls, patterned tiles and beautiful wood cabinetry in the kitchen diner oozes natural glamour, whilst the principal bedroom, on the first floor of the stone keep, is a room of immense proportions.

From the garden and terraces, there are gorgeous views over the undulating countryside, with birdsong or the odd moo from the small farm behind the house contributing to the bucolic settting. A corner section of the terraces is furnished with stylish outdoor furniture creating a courtyard area in which to dine and relax, all the while drinking in the surrounding vista. Conveniently close by is the heated pool, again carefully positioned to take advantage of the landscape. As with the interior, the grounds are a joy but we would highlight in particular the recent addition of a full size tennis court (with football goalposts and basketball hoop as well) to keep the most active of guests happy. Those less inclined to play can enjoy watching a game from the stunning summer house which overlooks the court, perhaps whilst enjoying an aperitif or two.

Within a 15 minute radius, three villages, La Sauvetet-de-Savères, Beauville and Laroque-Timbaut, provide essential amenities and a choice of restaurants, with hilltop Beauville also offering splendid views. Within a 30 minute radius, there are five villages which have been given the ‘The Most Beautiful Villages in France’ award – take some time to explore their picturesque streets and squares. Also within easy reach are the Rivers Lot, Tarn and Garonne, for days out on the water (canoeing, swimming, boat trips). Further suggestions for things to do include wine tasting (head to Bergerac, Duras and Cahors), a wander around the local ‘brocante’ and antique markets, and a visit to the capital Bordeaux, although we do believe that most days will be spent enjoying the unique charms of Château de Galaup itself.