The Presbytery in St Jean de Laur in the Lot Valley region of France nr Cahors is a large and historic house, originally a medieval building, it was enlarged during the 18th century and is used as a family holiday home and available for affordable vacation rentals. It has been gently modernised offering seven bedrooms, comfortably sleeping 14 people with the usual home comforts including a new kitchen. There is a large private swimming pool.
The house is situated just behind the village church, set in its own grounds dotted with roses, lavender and hollyhocks, an orchard, a swimming pool and terraces for dining in the shade or sun.
Large wrought iron entrance gates lead to a courtyard, which has the house, barn and wood store along two sides.
Barn
A table tennis table, an old pool table, dart board, table football and hammock. It’s a place for older kids to hang out! The courtyard has a large shady tree under which you can park several cars or play boule.
Patio & BBQ
Directly outside the back of the house is a patio with a pergola covered in vines and creepers and a custom-built barbecue.
Sun terrace
A large garden with flower beds and lawn leads to the terrace above the pool, which gets day long sun, and has a view across the valley. Large parasol and table and chairs.
The pool
The pool is 11 x 5 metre (36ft x 16ft) swimming pool with a safety fence and gates. A small pool room, contains all the equipment and a some inflatable pool toys.
The Orchard and field
Beyond the pool, the garden becomes wilder, leading to the orchard and a small grassed area suitable for games. There is also a domed well with door locked for safety, it shouldn't be opened or climbed on. 
Inside the house a stone flagged hall leads to the main reception room, the hub of the house.
Sitting room
Measuring 27ft by 20ft, this room has an enormous fire place at one end surrounded by comfortable sofas. At the other end is a fourteen-seater table and chairs. Two double french doors lead on to the patio.
Kitchen
Off the sittingroom is the fully equipped kitchen, all new in 2008, with fitted cupboards, five ring gas hob, double electric overs, microwave, built in coffee machine, fridge and dishwasher. There are always basics like tea bags, sugar, salt etc which you are welcome to use and replace.
Vaulted room
A door through a three foot thick wall leads to the medieval side of the house. First is a vaulted room, once the priest’s salon now a second sitting room with large fireplace and another set of french doors to the patio. Boxes of toys sit in one corner - its a nice cool place to play for little ones.
Laundry room and third bathroom
Beyond the vaulted room is a utility room with sink, two washing machines, extra fridge and a drier for emergency use. The third bathroom with shower, loo and basin is off this room.
Bedroom number 7
On the ground floor left of the front door. It has a double bed, built in wardrobe, chest of drawers and chairs. A darker and cooler room – good for high summer.
Up the wooden stairs is a large open landing containing a linen chest. A hallway along the full length of the building leads off to the various bed and bath rooms.
Bathroom
Large family bathroom cwith bath/shower, bidet, loo and basin and supply of towels for general use. Next door is another separate loo.
Bedroom 1
With a double bed, chest of drawers, wardrobe, desk, and chairs. Plenty of room for clothes, and a great view across the garden from the shuttered windows.
Bedroom 2
With a double bed, dressing table, recessed clothes rail, and chairs. Again, spectacular views across the gardens, and beyond!
Bedroom 3
With double bed, chest of drawers, wardrobe, table, and chairs. A quieter room to the rear of the house, over-looks the barn and the village church.
Bedroom 4
The quietest room, right at the back, perfect for those who want to escape the hubub! Double bed, built in cupboards, hanging rail, and chairs.
Bedroom 5 (very large)
Can be used as a double or as a dormitory. With double bed, three singles and a top bunk, chest of drawers, table, chairs and hanging rail.
Bedroom 6 (en suite bathroom)
Two single beds, wardrobe. This room is accessible through bedroom 5. Bathroom has shower, loo and basin.
