holiday accommodation near uzes

Why did you settle in this region, in this place and not elsewhere ?

Uzège runs in the family for one of us. Even though we were not born here, the region clearly enchanted us as we chose to move here to restore the tour sarrazine of Montaren, one of the oldest buildings in the area. Uzès has retained its authenticity as it is less overpopulated than its neighbours on the other side of the Rhone. The valleys exude charm, sitting amongst heaths as far as the eye can see. They bring history and nature together in the midst of this exceptional built heritage (Pont-du-Gard, ducal city of Uzès) less than an hour from the sea and the mountains, and close to main roads leading to major European capitals.

What specific architectural features does your building have ?

The tour sarrazine of Montaren is a rectangular tower of great simplicity. Its facades reflect the changes of the centuries with, for example, arrowslits to the north from the 12th century, corbels that once supported 15th century latrines and a stairway tower that was added one hundred years later.

What is its history ?

As the oldest building in the village of Montaren, the so-called "Sarrazine" tower probably owes its name to the romanticism of the 19th century which referenced the stone buildings built by the Moors that came to the region in the 8th century. An archaeological study carried out in 2013 indicated that the property dates back to the 12th century. It is mentioned as early as the 13th century, probably as a castrum, a medieval structure where the space on one side is shared as a seigniorial area and the other is reserved for inhabitants of the village. At this time it was part of the first castle of Montaren and the tower is now the only remaining vestige. Its military function is not, however, entirely clear as instead of archers, there are only 'jours' that illuminate the floors. Having changed owners many times over the years, it has belonged to several lords of Montaren, Toulouze, Foissac and Joyeuse, who each made changes according to their neighboring properties. It was only from the 16th century onwards that the tower became a residential property, this is made clear by the comfort features that began to appear: the tower-staircase, chimneys, latrines ... According to a 14th century text, this donjon was alternately occupied by two co-lords along with another tower that was originally located on the site of the current castle built in the 17th century. At the end of the 19th century, these two buildings belonged to the Puget family. They had carried out a lot of restructuring and made significant changes to the original layout.

What can you offer people staying with you ?

We have two guest rooms available that offer a unique experience in a thousand-year-old property. De Joyeuse House, a contemporary building to the west of the tower, is open for weekly rentals. Weekly rentals of the entire tower and outbuildings are available throughout July and August. Our guests have access to the library, as well as to the garden and the swimming pool. Of the surprises that await them, the tour of the tower with an aperitif on the roof terrace never fails to please.