It began with a simple challenge - could we make all of our own bread for a year? Making bread set us wandering on an expedition into culinary traditions and techniques. Before long, growing, brining, curing, smoking, preserving and fermenting complemented the baking. But a small flat in a large town put limits on how much food we could produce ourselves. So the thought of buying some land, with enough space for a small orchard, a few chickens, and wood fired oven was sown in our minds. It only took a holiday in Gascony to convince us we had found the right place . With such evident pride in the quality of local produce, a sense of culinary tradition, and a love of conviviality, the 'locals' have encouraged and supported us from the outset.

We hope Ancienne Ecole will be a home away from home. The original building dates back over 200 years and has retained several of its original features. Our four guest rooms (1 king-size, 2 double and 1 twin) are simply but elegantly furnished in keeping with the building. All the rooms are spacious and benefit from en-suite facilities. Free wi-fi is available throughout the house and you are welcome to use the courtyard, salon and terrace to relax, socialise or work. Ancienne Ecole is the perfect setting to discover Gascony and the Pyrenees: The internationally renowned jazz festival in Marciac is just minutes away. The festival brings a vibrant energy to anotherwise tranquil corner of rural France. A short drive takes you to the foothills of the Pyrenees. Toulouse, Lourdes and Pau are all within easy reach. South-west France is known for its hearty food and fine wines. Our little corner of the south-west is among the most rural, least densely populated areas of western Europe and has retained culinary traditions and local specialities which are little known outside the region. It is these lesser known local and seasonal dishes that we most enjoy preparing and serving...

Ancienne Ecole is located in the quiet hilltop village of Cazaux Villecomtal. The area is referred to as the balcony of the Pyrenees, with its stunning views of the mountains across the plains. This is the heart of rural Gascony, peacful and natural and where life moves at a slower pace.