Villa La Forge
Your serene escape awaits in the countryside of Soutwest France.
La Forge History
Villa La Forge was originally a blacksmith’s compound. Its exact age is unknown, but records suggest that a forge existed on this site by the time the Hundred Years’ War began in 1337—a period of repeated battles and shifting alliances that disrupted daily life across the region. Blacksmiths were vital then, forging tools and weapons that supported local communities during these turbulent times. Today, Villa La Forge’s enduring stone walls and surviving forge tools offer a direct link to this storied past, reflecting the essential role it played through centuries of change and resilience. The historic photograph captures the same building on the far right that stands as Villa La Forge today, complete with the forged ornamental horseshoe crest still hanging on the facade—a testament to its enduring craftsmanship and history.
How it all began
In 1989, while my family and I were living in Hong Kong, my stepfather, Gregory, found himself a little bored at work on day. Flipping through a newspaper, he stumbled upon a tiny advertisement for a medieval blacksmith’s forge in a small French village called Monpezat. There was no photo, no detailed description—just a brief mention of a dilapidated forge. Intrigued and inspired, he took a leap of faith and, with just a phone call, bought the place sight unseen. Thus began our family’s incredible journey of lovingly restoring the forge into a warm and authentic home.
For the past 36 years, this villa has been a beloved family vacation home—a place where friends and family have gathered to explore medieval castles, wander through charming villages, dance the night away at festive night markets, and savor the rich flavors of French cuisine. It has been the perfect base to experience all the treasures of the countryside, and it holds a special place in our hearts. Now, we are ready to pass this cherished home on to the next stewards, so they too can create memories that will last a lifetime.
