Maison Catalpa | 7-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool in Lauzerte

Fourteen guests arrive on a Saturday afternoon in Lauzerte, a stone-built village 4km from this sprawling villa. By evening, seven of them are playing croquet on grounds that stretch across a full hectare, while others gather on the south-facing terrace watching the Tarn-et-Garonne valley shift through shades of gold. This is what a luxury villa rental in Lauzerte feels like—not rushed, never cramped, entirely yours. Maison Catalpa sleeps 18 guests across 7 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, making it one of the region’s rare properties designed for genuine multi-generational gatherings without compromise.

Inside Maison Catalpa

The entrance immediately signals this isn’t a typical holiday rental. A working fireplace anchors the living room—the kind you’ll actually use on cool May evenings, not merely admire. The dining room opens directly onto a side terrace through double doors, collapsing the boundary between inside and out. From here, the kitchen stretches across the ground floor: properly equipped with professional appliances, it opens onto a covered dining terrace where you can serve breakfast without worrying about sudden rain.

The ground floor houses two primary bedrooms. The first features a 180cm double bed (convertible to twins if needed), while the second offers twin beds at 90cm each—ideal for guests who prefer separate sleeping arrangements. A full bathroom with bathtub and toilet, plus a separate shower room with WC, ensure morning routines never become bottlenecks even with a full house.

Climb the main staircase to the upper floor, where the villa’s bedroom strategy becomes apparent. Two identical ensuite bedrooms feature 160cm double beds paired with full bathrooms containing bath, shower and WC. A third ensuite hosts a 180cm double bed (again, splittable to twins) with private shower room and WC accessed via corridor. The final main-floor bedroom features a king-sized 180cm bed with its own full bathroom.

But there’s more. The library—accessed by a separate staircase—contains hundreds of the owners’ accumulated books, plus a sofa-bed sleeping two. This room functions as a natural quiet zone, refuge for readers or a retreat for teenagers who need space.

The Pigeonnier Annexe, a separate structure on the grounds, contains a standalone bedroom featuring two four-poster double beds and views across the valley—perfect for guests who prefer semi-independence. This room includes its own shower room and WC.

Collectively, Maison Catalpa accommodates 18 guests: the main house holds 14 (six main bedrooms plus library sofa-bed), and the Pigeonnier adds four more. Wi-Fi reaches throughout, UK satellite television occupies the lounge, and board games fill the shelves—entertainment for rainy afternoons or quiet evenings when nobody feels like leaving the property.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

The gardens demand description in full. A hectare of cultivated grounds and woodland surrounds the villa, creating genuine seclusion while hosting distinct zones for different moods. The heated swimming pool measures 12 by 8 metres, operational from approximately April through late September—deep enough for proper swimming, large enough that eight people won’t feel crowded. A safety alarm system operates as standard, with roll-up fencing available upon request for families with young children.

Surrounding the pool, sun-loungers invite horizontal contemplation while a covered terrace provides shade without isolation. Two separate terraces serve dining: one faces south, capturing morning light and protected from afternoon winds; the west-facing terrace receives the golden evening sun, perfect for aperitifs as the valley cools. A barbecue sits ready for grilled preparations, while table tennis, croquet and boules sets occupy dedicated corners—the kind of lawn games that occupy grandchildren for hours while adults manage the wine supply.

Mature gardens contain specific focal points. Lavender sweeps across the grounds in visible swathes. Fig trees produce fruit in late summer. The Catalpa tree—the property’s namesake—creates a natural gathering point beside the pool, its spreading canopy providing deep shade on the hottest days. Wisteria trails across structures, while summer roses and jasmine perfume the air.

Location: Lauzerte and the Surrounding Area

Lauzerte itself sits 4km away—close enough for dinner without feeling like you’re living in the village, far enough that the villa maintains genuine countryside tranquility. The classified bastide dates to the 12th century and preserves its medieval character: arcaded main square, cobbled streets, Saturday morning market selling local produce. The village sits on the GR65 pilgrimage trail; Le Jardin du Pèlerin offers magnificent valley views from the same vantage point medieval pilgrims once stood.

Within easy reach, Moissac (23km south) commands attention for two reasons: the Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Moissac contains some of France’s most photographed cloisters, while the Pont-Canal du Cacor—an actual bridge carrying the canal across the Tarn River—ranks as an engineering marvel. Sunday morning markets here pulse with regional products. Cyclists hire bikes locally to follow tow paths along both the Tarn and Canal du Midi, passing through terrain that barely changes from the 19th century.

Northeast along the Lot River, Cahors (42km) transforms wine tourism from abstract to visceral. The town produces Malbec wines of genuine world significance, and wine estates welcome visitors. The Pont Valentré—a 14th-century fortified bridge and UNESCO World Heritage site—anchors the skyline, while the Cathédrale Saint-Etienne and extensive market district make it ideal for full-day exploration. Montauban (36km), with its commanding red-brick Place Nationale and baroque cathedral, offers a different aesthetic entirely.

Closer villages merit individual attention: Montcuq (17km) provides bike hire and surrounds the Lac de Montcuq, a seasonal swimming and picnic destination open late June through early September. Tournon-d’Agenais (30km) specializes in tourtière, an apple-based pastry worth the drive. Villeneuve-sur-Lot (51km) preserves medieval architecture and hosts frequent markets. Further north, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie (64km) clings dramatically to riverside cliffs.

For water-based activity beyond the villa’s heated pool, the Aquazone inflatable park operates during peak summer near Montaigu-de-Quercy (20km), delighting older children. Horse-riding and tennis facilities operate within short drives. Fishing opportunities exist along the Tarn and Garonne Rivers. To explore this extraordinary region more thoroughly, explore our villas in Tarn Et Garonne and our Aquitaine travel guide for comprehensive destination inspiration.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Extended families spanning three generations find Maison Catalpa ideal. Seven bedrooms accommodate different sleeping preferences—couples in ensuite rooms, children in twin beds, teenagers in the library room with relative independence, elderly guests in ground-floor bedrooms avoiding stairs. A full hectare means children can play without disturbing others.

Friend groups numbering 12-18 people discover that shared spaces (the dining room, kitchen, pool) encourage together time while individual bedrooms prevent friction. The library functions as a natural decompression zone.

Couples seeking respite from social calendars find genuine quiet. Six separate bedrooms mean other guests don’t impact your schedule. The Pigeonnier Annexe provides semi-private accommodation for adult children or close friends.

Professionals managing a working holiday appreciate consistent Wi-Fi, quiet library space, and a chef-available service to manage meal preparation. Groups celebrating significant events—milestone birthdays, anniversaries, wedding weeks—benefit from proportional cost-splitting across 18 guests and absence of hotel formality.

Practical Information

Maison Catalpa accommodates 18 guests: the main villa holds 14 people across 6 primary bedrooms (1 double, 1 twin, 3 doubles with ensuite bathrooms, 1 king-size with ensuite) plus the library room with sofa-bed. The separate Pigeonnier Annexe accommodates 4 additional guests in quad format (two four-poster double beds).

Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (approximately 90km, roughly 90 minutes by car) handles major European connections. Bergerac Airport (approximately 70km, roughly 70 minutes) and Brive-Souillac Airport (approximately 80km, roughly 85 minutes) offer alternatives. Bordeaux-Mérignac (approximately 180km, roughly 2.5 hours) serves long-haul routes.

The nearest supermarket operates in Lauzerte (4km), with larger shopping available in Moissac (23km). Pre-stocking of the fridge can be arranged. A professional chef is available for hire; meals can be prepared in the villa’s well-equipped kitchen or you manage your own cooking. Wi-Fi, heating, pool heating (seasonal April-September), linen, towels and basic amenities are included in rental terms. Check-in flexibility depends on availability; discuss specific requirements directly.

Frequently Asked Questions about Maison Catalpa

How many guests does Maison Catalpa sleep?

Maison Catalpa accommodates 18 guests across 7 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms. The main house contains 6 primary bedrooms sleeping 14 people, plus a library room with a sofa-bed for 2 additional guests. The separate Pigeonnier Annexe features a quad bedroom with two four-poster double beds, accommodating 4 more guests. The specific breakdown allows different sleeping arrangements: the ground floor has one 180cm double (convertible to twins) and one twin room; the first floor has two 160cm doubles with ensuite bathrooms, one 180cm double (convertible to twins) with ensuite, and one 180cm king-size bed with separate bathroom access.

What is the nearest airport to Maison Catalpa in Lauzerte?

Toulouse-Blagnac Airport lies approximately 90km from Maison Catalpa, requiring roughly 90 minutes by rental car via standard routes. Bergerac Airport (approximately 70km, 70 minutes) and Brive-Souillac Airport (approximately 80km, 85 minutes) offer closer alternatives for some European routes. Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (approximately 180km, 2.5 hours) handles intercontinental flights. All airports provide rental car facilities; advance arrangement of transfers can be coordinated with Excellence Luxury Villas.

What is the best time of year to rent Maison Catalpa?

May through September represents peak season: the heated pool operates April through late September with optimal temperatures June-August; regional produce peaks July-September; medieval villages host summer markets and festivals; Cahors wine estates conduct full-year tours but feel less crowded outside July-August. April offers spring blooms and quiet exploration. October retains warm afternoons and thinner crowds. November-March brings cooler weather but lower prices and complete solitude—ideal for working groups or those avoiding peak-season crowds. Seasonal water activities (Lac de Montcuq, Aquazone) operate late June through early September.

Is Maison Catalpa suitable for families with children?

Yes. Safety systems include a pool alarm and optional roll-up fencing for the 12x8m heated pool. Ground-floor bedrooms with attached bathrooms accommodate families with young children, avoiding stair navigation. Outdoor activities include croquet, boules, table tennis and substantial garden space for play. Nearby attractions include Lac de Montcuq (17km) for swimming and picnics, the Aquazone inflatable park (20km) for older children during peak summer, and quiet villages with pedestrian-friendly medieval streets. The villa’s size allows adults and children to occupy different spaces simultaneously without isolation. Board games and books provide indoor entertainment on occasional rainy days.

What is included in the rental price at Maison Catalpa?

Standard inclusions encompass Wi-Fi internet throughout, utilities (heating, hot water), pool heating (April-late September), linen and towels, initial cleaning, and access to all amenities (games, books, satellite television). Garden features including the heated pool, terrace furniture, and recreational equipment (croquet, boules, table tennis) are included. Optional paid services include professional chef hire for meal preparation, pre-stocking of the fridge, and additional cleaning between check-in and checkout. Check specific rental terms regarding final cleaning responsibilities and deposit requirements.

What restaurants and shops are near Maison Catalpa?

Lauzerte village (4km) contains restaurants serving regional cuisine, a Saturday morning market, and small food shops. Moissac (23km) hosts a substantial Sunday morning market, multiple restaurants ranging from casual to fine dining, and specialist food shops. Cahors (42km) features extensive restaurant districts, daily markets, and wine estate restaurants. Montauban (36km) surrounds its grand Place Nationale with dining options and shops. Supermarkets operate in Lauzerte and larger facilities in Moissac (23km) and Cahors (42km). Regional specialties available at markets include local produce, cheeses, Cahors Malbec wines, and Tournon-d’Agenais tourtière pastries. Pre-stocking of the villa’s fridge can be arranged through Excellence Luxury Villas.