Set in the famous vineyards of Cahors, Maison Malbec is a beautifully renovated home owned by the former president of one of the world’s most famous jewellery brands.
Being more than accustomed to things of beauty, it is not surprising that he has a long history with this stunning region, since falling in love with the nearby medieval Château, which he brought back to its former glory and ensured its wines achieve international accolades. His latest project, Maison Malbec, is a luxurious holiday home set amongst the wonderful vineyards of this area where you can experience ultimate comfort in characterful and peaceful surroundings.
The Maison is divided into two parts, the first featuring an elegant living room with a grand open fire and extensive library, a charming country kitchen and an ornate dining room. In the second part of the house there is a delightful summer kitchen by the swimming pool and a games room featuring an impressive home cinema alongside table-football and a poker table. There’s an air of simple decadence around the six en-suite bedrooms, featuring sumptuous beds and antique furnishings. Exquisite pieces of art and sculpture fill the house, chosen by the owner who is also the president of a famous Art Foundation in Paris.
Outside you can relax by the swimming pool or dine with family and friends by the Weber barbecue, all the time surrounded by the relaxing landscapes of vines and gentle hills beyond.
The vineyards of Cahors surrounding the Lot river are some of the oldest in Europe. The main grape variety produced here is Malbec and there are many opportunities to visit estates to sample some of these excellent wines. Indeed, guests are invited to take a VIP tour of the famous winery at the owners Château, just a ten-minute drive away, where one of the most prestigious Malbec wines in the world is produced.
Food-lovers should visit the wonderful market in Cahors on a Wednesday or Saturday morning where they can buy delicious local produce such as cheese from Rocamadour, melons from Quercy or local foie gras and truffles. The historic town is a delightful place where you can explore the medieval cobbled lanes discovering pretty squares and secret gardens. Cross over the UNESCO World Heritage listed bridge, Pont Valentré, before taking a river cruise along the Lot. In the height of the summer the boats even travel as far as the enchanting village of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, known to be one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’.
Other wonders of the region include Puy-l’Évêque, Gourdon and Rocamadour or head further north to the valley of the Dordogne with idyllic places such as Domme, Monpazier and Sarlat all just over an hours drive.