Stay in a remarkable 16th-century residence overlooking the medieval heart of Villefranche-de-Rouergue. Set on the second floor of a listed Renaissance monument directly opposite the Collégiale Notre-Dame, this grand apartment looks across the arcaded central square, where the weekly market unfolds below. Its two monumental bedrooms are each 40 m², with soaring ceilings, the same exceptional view and a private ensuite bathroom within the room. One features a romantic Baldaquin bed; the other has a newly completed retro-style bathroom in an oak frame, with a bathtub carved in. The second bathroom is brand new and includes a retro bathtub within an oak frame. Both bathroom also have showers. The grand salon, with monumental fireplaces, exposed timber framing, carved stone doorways and wood panelling, is an unforgettable place to dine, read and relax. A very large sofa can provide extra sleeping space, although the apartment is best enjoyed using only two bedrooms. Ideal for a couple, two friends or a family, this is a rare chance to stay inside a true historic monument. Access is by an extraordinary internal stone staircase; the lively sounds of the square are part of the experience.

I was born in Villefranche-de-Rouergue but have spent much of my life abroad, living in Amsterdam, Los Angeles and now London, while working in Oxford. No matter where I have lived, this town has always felt like home. Perhaps because I spend so much time in Oxford's medieval colleges, I have developed a real appreciation for historic stone buildings and places that have stood for centuries. This apartment is exactly that: a remarkable Renaissance home overlooking one of France's finest medieval squares. I hope guests experience not just a place to stay, but the pleasure of living, if only for a few days, in a building that has witnessed generations of history. Sébastien and I are always happy to share recommendations for local restaurants, markets and the beautiful villages of the Aveyron while giving guests complete privacy.

The apartment overlooks the arcaded medieval square at the heart of Villefranche-de-Rouergue, one of south-west France's finest bastide towns. For more than seven centuries, this square has been the centre of the town's life, and today it remains filled with cafés, restaurants, bakeries, artisan food shops and the celebrated Thursday morning market. The magnificent Collégiale Notre-Dame stands directly opposite, while the surrounding streets reveal beautifully preserved Renaissance houses, hidden courtyards and charming squares. Villefranche is an ideal base for exploring the Aveyron and some of France's most beautiful villages, including Najac, Belcastel, Conques, Cordes-sur-Ciel and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. Whether you enjoy history, architecture, hiking or outstanding local food, you'll find plenty to discover, all within easy reach.