Mas De Beauce | 4-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool in Auzits

A winding track through working farmland leads to Mas De Beauce, a 14th-century stone mas overlooking the rolling hills of rural Auzits in Aveyron. This isn’t a property that whispers its age—it announces it through every rough-hewn beam, every uneven floor, every tower spiral staircase that climbs toward views that stretch across three departments. Eight guests, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, one unforgettable stay in countryside France where time moves differently.

Inside Mas De Beauce

Mas De Beauce sleeps 8 guests across 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms distributed across multiple levels, each connected by the original stone stairwells that have stood for six hundred years. The ground floor contains an open-plan living and dining area where a walk-through fireplace (with a working fire) separates the kitchen from the main gathering space. A pantry and utility room support the kitchen, while the first bedroom—fitted with twin single beds and its own en suite—makes this level ideal for guests with mobility considerations or families preferring ground-floor proximity to the kitchen and outdoor terraces.

The mezzanine level, reached via the old spiral staircase, holds the master bedroom. Two single beds (easily pushed together) sit beneath a stone fireplace, with an en suite bathroom carved from the thick walls. The texture of ancient stonework surrounds you here—this is not decorative roughness but evidence of medieval craftsmanship.

Climb higher still to the first floor. Two additional bedrooms occupy this level: one with a double bed, another with twin singles. A small study sits adjacent to the consecrated chapel—yes, an actual functioning chapel attached to the property, a rare architectural feature that speaks to the spiritual life of centuries past. A bathroom serves these upper rooms. History and function coexist without artifice.

The old watchtower occupies the topmost floor—a compact space with windows on all sides that reveal the Aveyron landscape in every direction. Sunrise from this room, with coffee in hand, becomes a ritual.

Wi-Fi and DVD capability anchor this ancient property to the present, though many guests find themselves ignoring both. The rough stone walls throughout, including in the modernised bathrooms, ensure that comfort never compromises authenticity.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

The 10m x 5m swimming pool dominates the southern garden, accessed through a locked gate and typically open June through September. This is Mediterranean leisure transplanted to the Midi-Pyrenees, with water temperature controlled and safety features installed—a genuine practical amenity, not an Instagram backdrop.

The sunset terrace faces west across the grounds, furnished with outdoor tables and chairs that gather evening light until dusk. A coal barbecue sits ready for grilling produce from the local markets of Firmi and Cransac, both less than 15 minutes away. The wider garden and grounds offer shaded retreats beneath mature trees, with the working dairy farm visible in the middle distance—a living connection to the agricultural landscape that has sustained this region for centuries.

Stone paving extends from the house, weathered by seasonal rainfall and centuries of feet. This is not landscaped garden design but the organic outdoor living space of a working property evolved over generations.

Location: Auzits and the Surrounding Area

Auzits sits in the heart of Aveyron, the least populated department in southern France—a designation that translates directly into silence, space, and unmediated landscape. The village itself lies just 5 minutes’ drive from Mas De Beauce, offering basic services and a genuine community rarely encountered in tourist-focused regions. Firmi and Cransac, both approximately 12-15km away, provide more substantial shopping: bakeries producing traditional pain de mie and fouace (a regional sweet bread), fromageries selling Aveyron’s famous Roquefort and Tomme cheeses, and markets bursting with seasonal vegetables that change weekly.

Rodez, the departmental capital 32km south, rewards a day trip. The Gothic cathedral dominates the historic centre, while the Soulages Museum—dedicated to the abstract painter Pierre Soulages—offers contemporary art within medieval walls. Markets operate twice weekly, stacked with regional produce and local pottery.

Wine enthusiasts should venture 16km to Marcillac-Vallon, where small-scale vineyards produce distinctive red wines from the local Fer Servadou grape. Tastings and cellar visits happen year-round; the autumn harvest season (September-October) brings particular energy to the region.

Medieval architecture defines the wider area. Belcastel, 22km away, perches above the Aveyron River with a castle and village preserved across several centuries. Conques, 21km distant, contains one of France’s most significant Romanesque churches—the Basilica of Sainte-Foy—drawing serious architecture enthusiasts and casual visitors in equal measure. Villefranche-de-Rouergue, 44km south, exemplifies 13th-century bastide town planning with its central arcaded square and soaring church tower. Najac, 67km away, stretches along a single medieval street leading upward to a fortress overlooking dramatic river gorges.

Outdoor activities anchor themselves to water and landscape. The Lot River and Célé River, flowing through gorges within 20-40km, offer canoeing and kayaking. Local fishing lakes provide quiet days with rod in hand. Cycling routes wind through quiet country lanes, many following ancient pilgrimage paths. For more adventurous water sports, Cajarc—approximately 1 hour away—offers water skiing on the Lot.

Nature reserves and geological sites add another dimension. The Pech-Merle caves, roughly 60km north, showcase prehistoric hand stencils and formations dating back 25,000 years. Gorge hikes abound within an hour’s drive in multiple directions.

Explore our collection of villas in Aveyron for other luxury options in this department, browse our full selection in France, or read our detailed Midi-Pyrenees travel guide for deeper destination inspiration.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Mas De Beauce appeals directly to guests seeking authentic French countryside experience without concessions to contemporary resort amenities. Families with older children thrive here—the pool provides summer entertainment, the space allows independence across multiple levels, and the rural setting reduces screen-time temptation. Multi-generational groups benefit from the ground-floor bedroom with en suite, eliminating stair access challenges while keeping everyone under one roof.

Couples escaping urban intensity find what they need: quietness, views, a functioning fireplace for cooler months (April-May, September-October), and proximity to wine regions and medieval villages. Food-focused travellers appreciate the farmers’ markets and artisan producers within 15km, as well as the kitchen’s position as a gathering space rather than hidden service area.

History enthusiasts—whether genuinely interested in medieval architecture or simply appreciating patina and authenticity—connect with the property’s genuine age and lack of superficial restoration. This is not a theme-park version of old France.

Guests uncomfortable with genuine isolation should reconsider. Mas De Beauce requires driving to reach restaurants, markets, or entertainment. Mobile phone reception is reliable but not guaranteed everywhere on the grounds. The appeal lies precisely in remoteness.

Practical Information

Capacity & Layout: Mas De Beauce sleeps 8 guests across 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Ground floor: one bedroom with en suite. Mezzanine: one master bedroom with en suite. First floor: two bedrooms (one double, one twin) sharing a bathroom. Top floor: watchtower room. All bed configurations allow flexibility for couples, families, or friend groups.

Nearest Airports: Rodez-Marcillac Airport lies approximately 40km away (roughly 45-50 minutes’ drive). Larger international options include Toulouse-Blagnac (140km, approximately 2 hours) and Montpellier-Méditerranée (160km, approximately 2 hours).

Nearest Supermarket: Firmi and Cransac, both 12-15km away, offer full shopping facilities including supermarkets, bakeries, and markets. Rodez (32km) provides more extensive options.

What’s Included: Wi-Fi internet, utilities, pool access (seasonal, June-September), and working fireplace. Linen and towels are provided. Cleaning arrangements are made at check-in and check-out. The coal barbecue is available for guest use.

Check-In Flexibility: Specific check-in times should be confirmed in advance with Excellence Luxury Villas. Early or late arrivals may be possible depending on seasonal demand.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mas De Beauce

How many guests does Mas De Beauce sleep?

Mas De Beauce accommodates 8 guests across 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The ground-floor bedroom contains twin singles with en suite, perfect for those preferring ground-level access. The mezzanine master bedroom holds two single beds (combinable to a double) with en suite and stone fireplace. The first floor contains two bedrooms—one with a double bed, one with twin singles—sharing a bathroom. A fifth small room at the top of the watchtower provides additional space with exceptional views, though it functions primarily as a viewing room rather than sleeping quarters due to its compact dimensions.

What is the nearest airport to Mas De Beauce in Auzits?

Rodez-Marcillac Airport lies 40km away, approximately 45-50 minutes by car from Mas De Beauce. This is the closest airport for direct regional flights. Toulouse-Blagnac International Airport (140km, approximately 2 hours) offers significantly more flight options from UK and European hubs. Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport (160km, approximately 2 hours) provides another international alternative. Car rental is recommended for guests planning to explore Aveyron’s attractions independently.

What is the best time of year to rent Mas De Beauce?

May through September offers warm, dry weather ideal for pool use and outdoor terrace dining. June-August brings peak temperatures (22-27°C) but also peak tourist seasons in nearby medieval villages. September-October provides warmth without crowds, excellent for hiking and wine-region exploration. April-May sees spring weather (15-20°C) with wildflower displays across the countryside and the working fireplace provides evening warmth. Avoid November-February unless seeking solitude and winter landscapes, as days are shorter and cooler (5-10°C), though spring bulbs begin emerging by late February. The pool typically opens June and closes September. Local markets operate year-round but are most abundant May-October.

Is Mas De Beauce suitable for families with children?

Yes, with sensible precautions. The private 10m x 5m pool has safety features and operates seasonally (June-September) with supervised access recommended for younger children. The property spans multiple levels connected by original stone staircases—older children (8+) navigate these easily, but families with toddlers should carefully assess access. The ground-floor bedroom with en suite supports families preferring consolidated sleeping arrangements. The rural setting and absence of main-road traffic provides safe outdoor space. Nearby Auzits and surrounding villages have limited children’s entertainment facilities; families should anticipate self-directed activities (hiking, swimming, cooking, exploring) rather than organised attraction visits. The property works well for multi-generational groups seeking shared-space holidays rather than families requiring commercial activity options.

What is included in the rental price at Mas De Beauce?

The rental price includes Wi-Fi internet access throughout the property, all utilities (heating, electricity, water), use of the seasonal swimming pool (June-September, with heating as available), linen and towels, and access to the working fireplace and coal barbecue. Cleaning services at check-in and check-out are typically included. DVD player usage is available. Specific details regarding additional charges for pool heating, late checkout, or early arrival should be confirmed directly with Excellence Luxury Villas at the time of booking, as these may vary seasonally.

What restaurants and shops are near Mas De Beauce?

Auzits village (5 minutes away) offers essential services and local shops. Firmi and Cransac (12-15 minutes) provide more substantial retail, including bakeries producing traditional regional breads, fromageries stocking Roquefort and Tomme cheeses, and twice-weekly markets with seasonal produce and handcrafted pottery. Rodez (32km, approximately 40 minutes) contains a twice-weekly farmers’ market, supermarkets, restaurants ranging from casual bistros to fine dining, and specialist shops. Marcillac-Vallon (16km, approximately 20 minutes) offers wine tastings and cellar visits at local vineyards. Restaurants in the immediate area are limited; most guests choose to cook at the property’s well-equipped kitchen or venture to Rodez for dining out. Picnic supplies can be assembled from local markets—a popular approach given the spectacular outdoor spaces.