Forget about Provence with its chic reputation. The South West of France is the real thing. Although we have lived in France several times and have toured all over the country for decades, we had never been to the Gers (pronounced Gerz) nor any part of the South West. What an eye-opener. This is the way France was back in the 60's when we first began our love affair with our second country. And this house happens to be the BEST one we have ever rented. It is especially well situated on a hill overlooking rolling fields of hay, sunflowers and corn. Although the sun raised the temperature to 90+ F. during the days, the nights were cool enough to use sheets and covers in bed. The house's 5 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms are large and comfortable. All the appliances are top notch and work well without any anxiety about using them. There are even 2 refrigerators, one for food and the other for drinks.
The owners are very accommodating and were in immediate phone or e mail contact with us if we had a question about anything.
The nearest town, La Romieu, has a UNESCO marked Collegiale church from the 14th century which is a fabulous site to visit. The town has a wonderful boulangerie with excellent bread and pastries and also a small epicerie and wine store combined. There are two restaurants, one of which also serves as the town's bar/café. There is also a very good tennis court run by the local camping grounds for the public and is inexpensive.
The house's pool is large and the water was warm due to the hot days. We shared the house with our daughters, their husbands and grandchildren, a total of 8 but were very comfortable because of the size of the rooms. There is plenty of room for parking and the house is about 25 minutes away from major towns with markets and supermarkets (Condom, Fleurance and Lectoure) and 30 minutes from 3 towns with the Most Beautiful Villages In France award (Montreal, Larressingles and Fources.)
Two weeks was not enough time to spend here and we look forward to returning soon.