Before we dive into the details, could you briefly introduce yourself?

Le Tuco is a family story. We, Pieter-Jan (27 years old) and Willem (26 years old), two brothers from Ghent, proudly continue the work of our father, Joost, and his life partner, Machteld. They discovered this special place in 2010 and immediately fell in love with the nature, tranquility, and charm of the estate. Today, we cherish Le Tuco as a place where nature, peace, and comfort come together, with respect for the environment and the traditions that this land holds.

We would love to share more about you as a person with our guests. Could you tell us more about yourself?

We come from an entrepreneurial family where building something together has always been at the heart of everything we do. We have embraced the same mentality with Le Tuco: a place where family, connection, and timelessness come together.

When and how did this accommodation come into your life, and what motivated you to make it a part of your journey?

Our story with Le Tuco began in 2010 when our father, Joost, purchased the historic estate in the idyllic Gers region of southwest France. From the very first moment, we knew this place was special. The old stone building, surrounded by rolling green hills, vineyards, and sunflower fields, radiated authenticity and peace. Although it had been somewhat neglected over the years, we saw its potential to become something timeless—a place where family gathers and generations connect.

The following years were dedicated to renovation and restoration, with deep respect for the soul and history of the house. At the same time, we grew up here, spending countless summers and vacations in this place that became so dear to our hearts.

Could you tell us more about the renovation and interior design process of your accommodation?

Every detail in Le Tuco has been carefully selected to maintain the perfect balance between tradition and modernity. Machteld, our father’s life partner, played a key role in this process with her keen sense of style and harmony. From the authentic facades to the elegant ensuite bathrooms and the refined interior design—everything contributes to Le Tuco’s timeless charm and unique atmosphere.

On a personal level, what makes your property truly special for you? Any standout memories or moments that make it dear to your heart?

Le Tuco is more than just a place for us; it is an essential part of our family story. We spent a large part of our childhood here, helped with the renovations, and built the vineyard from scratch. One particularly memorable moment was opening our first bottle of Le Tuco wine in 2021. After years of hard work in the vineyard, it felt like the ultimate reward for our family project. We shared a glass together in the vineyard, toasting to the future, and realized just how deeply we are connected to this place.

Le Tuco is where memories are made and cherished, and we want to pass that feeling on to our guests.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior design of your accommodation?

The atmosphere and interior design of Le Tuco reflect a harmonious balance between authenticity and modern comfort. The historical character of the estate is preserved through its authentic stone facades, wooden beams, and rustic elements, while the interior is elegantly and contemporarily designed using high-quality natural materials.

Think warm earth tones, luxurious fabrics, and subtle decor that reflects the charm of the region. The spaces are bright and open, with large windows and French doors that bring the natural surroundings indoors. The interior combines traditional craftsmanship with modern design, creating a stylish yet inviting atmosphere.

From the elegant ensuite bathrooms to the cozy sitting areas and open kitchens, every detail has been carefully selected to blend comfort and aesthetics. Le Tuco exudes tranquility, warmth, and sophistication, inviting guests to relax and connect—a place where they immediately feel at home in a timeless and inspiring setting.

Which part of your accommodation do you love the most, and why?

It is difficult to choose just one favorite spot in Le Tuco because each space has its own charm and offers a different moment of peace and connection. However, there are three places where the essence of Le Tuco is felt most strongly:

-Outdoor: The Yoga Platform
Tucked away between the trees, overlooking rolling hills, vineyards, and the village of Saint-Orens-Pouy-Petit, the yoga platform radiates pure serenity. On clear days, the Pyrenees can be seen in the distance. This is a place where you can observe the world while remaining unseen yourself. Whether starting the day with yoga, reading a book, or simply enjoying the view, it is always a moment of complete connection with nature.

-Indoor: The Living Room
The living room in the main house is the beating heart of Le Tuco. Large windows let in abundant light and offer stunning views of the surroundings. Authentic elements have been carefully preserved while refining acoustics, energy efficiency, and aesthetics. This makes the space not only full of character but also warm and timeless. Here, laughter, games, and shared moments take place—a space where homeliness and connection come together.

-Indoor & Outdoor: The Pool House
The pool house exudes a different ambiance each season. In summer, the glass sliding doors open completely, seamlessly merging the indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing guests to dive straight into the pool. In winter, it becomes a cozy retreat where the fireplace crackles, and the view of the fields exudes a picturesque tranquility. At the long table, meals are shared, glasses are raised, and stories unfold as the sun sets behind the hills. A place for relaxation and togetherness, no matter the sea

What makes the location of your accommodation unique and special?

Le Tuco is situated in the idyllic Gers region of southwest France, an unspoiled area full of rolling landscapes, sunflower fields, and charming bastide villages. Often called the "Tuscany of France," the Gers offers tranquility, space, and a sunny lifestyle, far from mass tourism. The region is also known for its rich culinary traditions, from foie gras and Armagnac to refined local wines.

Perched on a hill, Le Tuco offers breathtaking views of the landscape, surrounded by private forests, a vineyard, and lush gardens. Here, guests wake up to birdsong and enjoy a clear, starry sky at night, far from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Are there any sustainable or eco-friendly initiatives associated with your accommodation that you are proud of?

At Le Tuco, nature is at the heart of everything we do. Our vast 12-hectare estate includes lush gardens and private forests, where flora and fauna can thrive freely. We cherish this natural environment and commit to a conscious and sustainable way of living.

We generate energy with solar panels on our roof and have installed heat pumps for cooling and heating. Additionally, we encourage our guests to use water, air conditioning, and electricity responsibly. In our vineyard, we practice sustainable and traditional farming techniques to create not only a characterful wine but also to protect the soil and biodiversity. At Le Tuco, nature, comfort, and respect for the land go hand in hand.

What motivated or inspired you to rent out your property to guests?

At Le Tuco, we focus on creating a meaningful and timeless experience that helps guests step away from their busy lives and reconnect with what truly matters: themselves, their loved ones, and nature. In a world full of distractions and hectic schedules, a place that invites rest, inspiration, growth, and connection is invaluable, as it allows people to find balance and refocus on their happiness.

Le Tuco is deeply rooted in our family, a place where we cherish the essence of connection, tradition, and tranquility. The timeless balance between authenticity and modernity in the architecture and atmosphere of the house reflects the deep bond we have felt with this place for generations. We want to pass on this sense of connection to our guests so that they too can experience the special essence of Le Tuco.

Can you give a vivid description of the overall experience guests can expect during their stay at your accommodation?

From the moment guests drive up the estate, they will feel the tranquility and serenity of the place. They are greeted by the fresh scent of nature and the soft breeze flowing through the trees. In the distance, the vineyard and garden are visible, and the driveway leads them further into the heart of the estate, where they enter the warm and stylish interior of the main house and guesthouse. The name "Le Tuco," which literally means "the hill," reflects the location of our estate that spans the entire hill. This ensures complete privacy and an expansive, uninterrupted view of the surrounding landscape—a place where you can retreat and experience peace.

Mornings here begin with a relaxed breakfast on one of the terraces, with fresh bread, local cheeses, and the birds singing in the background. For those who rise early, there is the option to start the day with yoga, on the outdoor yoga platform under the trees or in the indoor yoga studio. During the day, guests can cool off in the long pool, enjoy a book in the shade, or take a peaceful walk through the forests and vineyard that slowly unfold before them. Along the walk, they will pass many beautiful spots that we have carefully created on the estate, from intimate seating areas to quiet corners in nature.

In the evening, guests can cook together in the fully equipped kitchen or barbecue outdoors with a view of the sunset. Afterwards, they can move to the poolhouse, where they can enjoy a glass of wine at the bar, relax in the sauna, or gather in the cozy spaces. Children can also entertain themselves with a board game, a round of billiards, or a movie on our smart TV. The evening is often concluded at the fire pit, where deep conversations and songs fill the silence of the night. It's a magical moment, surrounded by nature and the company of loved ones, under the starry sky.

Days at Le Tuco feel timeless, as if the hustle and bustle of life has taken a pause. Here, guests rediscover the pleasure of slowing down, of simple moments that become valuable and meaningful.

In what ways does your accommodation stand out from others? What unique features make it an unforgettable experience for guests?

Le Tuco is not a standard vacation home; it is a place with a soul. What makes our accommodation unique is the combination of authenticity and modernity, the deep connection to nature, and the thoughtful design that offers both comfort and aesthetics. Several aspects make Le Tuco special:

- Complete privacy: With 12 hectares of private land, a private vineyard, garden, and forests, this is a place where guests can fully retreat.

- Unique facilities: A yoga platform in nature, a sauna, a fire pit in the former pool area, and a fully equipped poolhouse by the 23-meter-long infinity pool make the experience extra special.

- Sustainable and traditional winemaking: Guests can enjoy our own Chateau Le Tuco wine. In mid-September, guests can also participate in the production process, from grape picking to pressing the grapes.

- Personal hospitality: As this is a family project, we welcome our guests with a personal touch and ensure that each stay is unique and unforgettable.

What is the nicest compliment you have received from a guest?

One of the most beautiful compliments we received came from a newlywed couple who spent their honeymoon at Le Tuco, surrounded by family and friends. They transformed our yoga platform into an intimate ceremony spot, where they deepened their bond in peace and love. What touched us was how Le Tuco became an essential part of their story. They told us that this place was more than a vacation destination to them—it gave them a deep, lasting connection with each other and nature. They promised to return, and that Le Tuco would always remain a special chapter in their lives. This is exactly what we hope to create: a place that weaves lasting memories into the lives of our guests.

What do you hope guests take away from their stay or remember most about their time at your accommodation?

More than just a relaxing vacation, Le Tuco offers a place to rest, find connection, and step away from the daily hustle. Guests often leave with a deep sense of satisfaction, memories of long conversations by the fire, relaxing moments in the pool, and walks through the estate. We hope they take away not only the beauty of the place but especially the feeling of truly catching their breath.

Do you have any recommendations for guests to fully enjoy their vacation?

At Le Tuco, everything revolves around relaxation. Don’t plan too much and give yourself the space to let the days unfold naturally. Visit the markets in nearby villages and discover the delicious cheeses, wines, and regional products of the Gers, such as foie gras and armagnac. The starry sky in this region is unparalleled. An evening walk, free from light pollution, offers a magical experience. Explore all the little spots carefully created on the estate. Walk through the vineyard and enjoy a glass of Chateau Le Tuco. Try a morning yoga or meditation session on the platform by the forest. Start the day with a moment of peace and mindfulness in nature. If you come in mid-September, you can help with the harvest and experience how artisanal winemaking works—a fantastic experience.