Le Coteau is an ancient house in the pretty village of Miradoux, a fortified16th century castelnau in the Gers – the heart of the ancient duchy of Gascogne (Gascony). Constructed of local stone, hand-made bricks and oak beams, Le Coteau features the columbage (plaster and oak) interior walls that typify Gascon houses. Having served families well for centuries, the house has been fully renovated – while it retains the charm of bygone years, it's now a modern three-storey villa that caters very comfortably for 4 - 6 adults, and its hillside location provides for breath-taking views, especially from the terrace.
Having survived sieges, plagues, fires and battles, Miradoux and its surrounds now epitomise peace and tranquillity. Often characterised as a 'little Tuscany', the area is extremely attractive with its stone houses, winding streets and magnificent scenery.
The village itself has a population of about 500, a small supermarket, a pharmacy, a boulangerie (bakery), a tabac (newsagency), a café/restaurant/bar and a bank, as well as all of the usual professional and trade services. The economic base is agricultural, with local specialties including duck, fish (from the rivers, the Atlantic and the Mediterranean), pâté de foie gras, cheese, garlic, peaches, mushrooms, armagnac and quality wines. Tourism is also important – visitors come from afar to visit the ancient covered market and 15th century church, admire the countryside, and walk one of the major Santiago de Compostella pilgrimage trails.
The modern département of Gers is arguably the most beautiful part of France, and one of the quietest. Life expectancies are greater than anywhere else in Europe, possibly due to high quality food and wine, outdoor lifestyle, and relaxed pace. Moreover, it offers unlimited opportunities for touring and sight-seeing – terrific views, beautiful architecture, museums, great cafes and restaurants … the possibilities are endless.