Saint-Sylvestre-sur-Lot

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Home Cinema Setup

Satellite / Cable TV

Entertainment

Dishwasher

High Chair

Kitchen

Kitchen & Dining

Iron

Washing Machine

Ironing Board

Bedroom & Laundry

Bicycles

Swimming Pool

Private Pool

Heated Pool

Wellness & Fitness

Wi-fi

Internet & Office

Central Heating

Heating & Cooling

Parking Available

Self Check-in / Check-out

Parking & Access

Barbeque

Patio / Terrace

Garden

Beach / Pool Towels

Outdoor Seating

Outdoor

Child Friendly

Other

You’ll find this wisteria-clad château on the banks of the River Lot, set within forty acres of woodland and landscaped gardens. The place boasts period furnishings, as well as a few modern luxuries – there’s a heated swimming pool, a cinema room, and a gym. When it comes to sleeping arrangements, the home is split into six separate suites – handy for families travelling together. After exploring the private grounds, why not go further afield? Nip across to the village of Penne-d'Agenais or hike over to the small fortified town of Pujols.

Riverbank Retreat

Hair Dryer

Toiletries

Bathroom

Coffee Maker

Cooking Essentials

Fridge

Kettle

Kitchen Utensils

Microwave

Oven

Stove

Toaster

Private Washing Machine

Drying Rack

Hangers

Free Parking On Premises

Private Parking

Smoke Detector

Originally built as an old farmhouse, this beautiful home combines rustic charm with a light colour palette to create a space that feels both cosy and light, and certainly inviting enough for you to relax in. 

We can imagine lazy starts followed by freshly-brewed coffee at the dining table, right next to the statement fireplace. Unfortunately not in working order anymore, the design of the old hearth is still a beautiful focal point to the dining space. Scramble eggs in the minimal kitchen to enjoy alongside fresh croissants, cheese, and caffeine before getting ready for a day of exploration. 

Venture to Cadran Solaire – only minutes away by car – where you can hike the trails and explore the native foliage. In Nérac, about fifteen minutes away, you’ll find the night market and open-air cinema, but it’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat during the day. 

On those days where you find your itinerary completely clear, you’ll delight in the peace on offer at this home. Open the curved doors of the living room and read on the sofa, or head outside where you can walk the grounds until you find the perfect spot for an impromptu picnic. Enjoy sunset drinks on the terrace, barbecued dinners, and collapse onto the lawn every now and again for late-night stargazing.

Rustic on Green

Smart TV

Ping Pong Table

Pool / Snooker Table

Sound System

Bathtub

Sauna

Air Conditioning

Fireplace

Outdoor Fireplace / Firepit

From its secluded hillside position in Gascony, this restored farmhouse offers idyllic views, a peaceful garden and the perfect setting for a restorative retreat. Guests can enjoy elegant rooms and exceptional design along with a pool, sauna and yoga studio – private classes can be arranged upon request. It’s also family-friendly with a children’s room and plenty to explore in the surroundings. Follow trails through the estate woodland, fields and vineyards, or visit the region's most beautiful spots – it's just 8 kilometres to the nearby village of Condom. 

The Peace Keeper

DVD Player

DVD Library

Pod Coffee Machine

Balcony

Pets Allowed

Pets

Few things sounds more romantic than a cottage situated in the middle of wine country, where the endless vineyards sprawl and birds chirp. Perfect for a long-awaited holiday away from the kids or a getaway for a budding romance, the home is small but its surroundings are vast and baby-blue French shutters are ever-so charming. Escape right out to the private gardens from the pastel bedroom. After days lounging by the pool or drifting in the nearby river, take the bikes to one of two nearby towns to explore gothic churches and to pick up local delicacies like fresh truffles and a bottle (or two) of wine for enjoyment on the stone terrace. Intimacy is the emphasis here, and we can guarantee this home as a perfect start to a French-inspired love story. 

Gardenia

Games Room

Wheelchair Access

Fenced Property

Journey through the vineyards of Bordeaux before finding yourself at this stone villa on the bank of the Dordogne. The highlight of this stay for us is not only the view of the romantic river, but the direct access to it via a private dock or one of the included kayaks. If you do happen to tire of a lazy day by the river (or pool if you’d rather), explore the private gardens, scenic as a Monet painting, and pick at seasonal treats for your family or friends to snack on. Speaking of food, you can take the bikes out to the nearby boulangerie for croissants and tarts. We should also mention that the local farm’s goats cheese selection is sensational, especially when paired with wines from the neighbouring vineyards. 

River Days

Library of Books

Freezer

Dryer

La Belle Vie has been around for well over a hundred years. No fakes, no approximations, just old-style charm and the kind of luxury only the nineteenth-century French nobles could conjure up. Mostly furnished with antiques in various states of refurbishment, this chateau is a walk through the history of comfort — perfect for a large family gathering with older children, or a luxurious base to explore the  the world-famous vineyards of the Aquitaine region. Some off you will start your days with a brisk walk around the estate, and some with a proper morning swim in the private pool. There are plenty of spots to socialise both indoors and outdoors, so reconnecting will be easy even when you're not gathering for one of your fancy meals. And if you're travelling with discerning guests, the host is more than happy to organise a variety of extra services that will turn your stay into a proper five-stay experience. Think private chefs, maid service, babysitting, fridge filling, and more. 

La Belle Vie

Board Games

Baby Bath

Baby Changing Mat

Changing Table

Heated Towel Rail

Blender

Cafetiere

Children's Dinnerware

Espresso Machine

Rice Maker

Private Dryer

Black-Out Blinds

Cleaning Products

Cot / Crib

Laundry Supplies

Luxury Bedding

Vacuum Cleaner

Extra Pillows and Blankets

Outdoor Pool

Desk

Laptop Friendly Workspace

Workplace

Temperature Control

Free Parking On Street

Accessible Parking

Secured Parking

Early / Late Check-Out Available

EV Charger

Gated Community

Multiple Sets of Keys

Private Entrance

Step-Free Access

Fenced Garden

Fenced Pool

Garden Games

Outdoor Shower

Pool House

Sun Loungers / Beach Chairs

Sun Umbrellas

Umbrellas

Welcome Hamper

Nice to haves

Fire Extinguisher

First Aid Kit

Safe

Stair Gates

Carbon Monoxide Detector

Nestled away deep within vineyard country between the Garonne and Dordogne, Monségur is a quintessential bastide town full of medieval architecture and this impressive home is a suitably characterful place to stay if you're planning a visit.

It's a more recent addition to the locale than many of the nearby buildings, but there are still a few centuries of heritage in the walls and this sense of history has been expertly retained during a recent renovation, which prioritised traditional methods and materials. Take a wander throughout the ground floor and you'll spot antique furnishings, period features and elegant decorations evocative of years gone by. At the same time, guests are also treated to all of the amenities to be expected in the 21st century – we're talking sleek kitchens and bathrooms, plus plenty of tech and gizmos.

We've been saving the best until last, however. Out in the enclosed garden, it's pretty clear to see where long summer afternoons will be spent – flitting between the cooling waters of the swimming pool and the surrounding loungers. Of course, if the weather's on your side during your stay, there are plenty of wineries, abbeys and walking routes to explore in the surrounding Entre-Deux-Mers region, as well. The city of Bordeaux only takes an hour to reach by car, too.

Words of Wisdom

Rain Shower

Ceiling Fans

Safety Gates

Owned by two sisters with five children between them, it's fair to say your hosts know a thing or two about creating a family-friendly getaway. With its generous layout, relaxed atmosphere and wide selection of outdoor spaces – including a heated pool, three acres of fenced garden, swings and a well-equipped games room – for those who like the idea of letting their children roam free, this six-bedroom home could be a perfect choice.

Inside, you'll uncover an abundance of French rustic charm, with plenty of period features. Grand fireplaces, sparkling chandeliers and gnarled beams sit untouched since the home's halcyon days as a winemaking chateau. Split across the ground and first floors, there are six king-size bedrooms with four en-suite bathrooms and one large family bathroom with an inviting freestanding tub.

Despite the feeling of privacy and seclusion, the property is very accessible – just ten minutes from Saint-Émilion and well within an hour of Bordeaux and its airport. We'd suggest carving out some time for yourself to enjoy a distinctly French day out wine tasting at the countless vineyards within a short drive of the property, or booking a tee time at one of the nearby eighteen-hole golf courses.

When stocking up on essentials, there's practically a food market every day of the week, so you can steer clear of the supermachés and shop the way the locals do. And if all that poolside relaxing has drained you of any desire to cook, your hosts can help organise a private chef. Alternatively, there are plenty of top-notch restaurants within a short drive.


Dust on the Bottle

Baby Monitor

Hammock

Hidden by farmland and summer flowers lies this charming villa brimming with character. Warm yourself by the traditional log fire or cool off in the private pool. Travelling with little ones? This home offers a range of amenities for making your holiday that bit easier, so you can focus on what matters. Cook up a feast at the handsome range cooker and dine alfresco, or relax out in the hammocks and watch the world go by.

This home places you a scenic walk or a short drive from the picturesque market towns of the Dordogne and the Lot. Immerse yourself in local life and cuisine at Villeréal, or drive to Saint-Émilion for a day of wine tasting. If you're looking for adventure, hire canoes to traverse the Dordogne or Lot rivers. The scenery of Dropt valley is best discovered on foot or by bike. In the evening, enjoy a movie night in the rustic living room

Heard it Through the Vineyard

Wine Cooler

Desk / Workplace

Throws

Named a ‘Best Romantic Break’ by Liz Earle Wellbeing, this chateau in the stunning setting on the Dordogne-Lot et Garonne border presents a unique experience worth writing home about. 

Amidst the spanning countryside of rolling hills, summer sunflowers and fruit trees, it is rumoured that in former times, the fruit was picked from the gardens and served to the aristocracy residing at the 13th-century château just opposite. These days, the abundance of fauna and flora remains for guests' enjoyment. Roam around the castle's grounds, and as you soak up the views, take in the fresh air – sweetly fragranced by the orchards. 

While the home is listed as an ancient monument, it is restored to a pristine standard with contemporary finishings throughout. With plenty of living areas to relax, it's not just the six beautifully furnished en-suite bedrooms that will have you feeling refreshed and revitalised, as you'll find many quiet spots inside and out, to sit in peace with a glass of Côtes de Duras wine. We particularly love that when evening falls, you can control the coloured lighting of this 13th-century castle in a very 21st-century manner. 

Beyond the chateau and its beautiful garden (featuring a terrace and pool area), stroll along the little path that leads straight to the village of Duras in minutes. Pick up fresh bread and pastries from the boulangerie alongside some fresh fare at the local farmers' market. Then, when you're ready to venture further afield, set off on day trips to discover the likes of Bergerac, Château de Monbazillac and Saint-Émilion – all of which boast medieval architecture, quality restaurants and exquisite Maison des Vins. 



Sunflower Spring

Soak up the rustic charm of this beautiful home, filled with character and all the luxuries you might want from a stay in France. Go for a float in the private pool or get some remote work done at the dedicated desk. Who says you can't be productive on holiday? The garden is perfect for sitting out under the trees with a drink, and the terrace is perfect for alfresco dining. Get a good night's sleep in the round bed upstairs, and relax in one of many shaded and sun-kissed spots outside.

Enjoy picnics by the banks of the Dordogne and strolls through the markets of Périgord. If you're looking for somewhere to eat, there are plenty of options a short drive away, whatever you're craving. Enjoy hours of exploration whether you're a hiker, a cyclist, or even a sailor. In the summer months, rent a kayak or canoe and traverse the Dordogne river. In the evening, the plush sofas of the two living areas make for cosy places to gather and discuss a busy day.

Bliss by the Pool

Surrounded by fields where the only sound is the threshing of wheat and coo of pigeons, this chateau sits out in the Lot-et-Garonne countryside. The first thing we noticed was the old pigeonnier rising up like a stone turret which domestic pigeons would have fluttered in and out of in times gone by. A quiet courtyard area is shadowed by this architectural curiosity where you can dine in the sunshine, or on the shaded veranda – the choice is yours. Within the sprawling green gardens, there are towering trees that have stood for centuries and a stone path winds down the lawn to the swimming pool. Perhaps you’ll stumble upon the petanque court for a game in the sun. 

Within the home, the main lounge has a pleasingly rustic feel to it with gnarled old wooden beams on show, exposed stone walls and a lofty wooden ceiling with skylights out to the deep blue sky. A big wood-burning stove sits pride of place – harking back to a bucolic time of hand-tilled land and horses in stables. The kitchen is ultra-modern with a dedicated wine fridge to chill your bubbly, and French doors in here show off a view of rolling fields. Plus, there’s a huge pantry for all the produce you can pick up from the small-town farmers’ markets in the area. But the piece de resistance has to be the private wine cellar with its thick stone walls, barrel tables and a host ready to organise private tasting sessions of the best local vintages. 

Should you fancy a day trip, hop over the border to the Dordogne for an endless selection of wineries and the charming town of Bergerac is around a forty-five-minute drive away. 

Enchanted Pigeonnier

Netflix

Streaming Services

Luxury Toiletries

Wine Cellar

Courtyard

Breakfast Included

When your mind wanders to sunnier climes, daydreaming about an escape to France, this is the kind of place you’ll find yourself imagining. This stunning villa has it all – a picturesque stone facade, rolling countryside views, and every comfort and luxury you could hope for. 

It’s in the heart of the Perigord countryside, with plenty to discover along the Dordogne. A day trip to the famous medieval town of Sarlat-la-Canéda is a must, with its gorgeous architecture and incredible food markets. Rent bikes from your host and explore the rich and verdant countryside surrounding the villa, taking picnics of local cheese and fresh bread to enjoy along the way. 

Of course, you may find that you’re entirely content to stay put most of the time – there’s enough to enjoy at the villa, after all. Wake up early and enjoy a quiet moment in the garden, sipping your coffee as the early-morning sun warms you. After a breakfast of fresh fruit and pastries, lie in the sun beside the pool, occasionally dipping a toe in to test the temperature. Swim beneath a cloudless blue sky, and play with the little ones on the lawn. This is an idyllic home, where rest and relaxation are the focus. 

In the evening, sip cocktails on the terrace as the sun begins to set. Let a private chef do the hard work in the kitchen, and settle in for a fabulous alfresco feast. Is there anything better than dining under the stars on a warm summer’s night?  


Stone Amid Hills

Situated on seven acres of private woodland in the Dordogne valley, this romantic country home offers a tranquil retreat from the stresses of everyday life. Gaze out at miles of pastoral land from your private heated pool, and dine al fresco under the dappled light.

The interiors make a strong case for rustic chic decor. Painted wooden beams and a wide wood-burning stove bring that classic farmhouse flair, while neutral furnishings and abstract art balance the space and keep it contemporary. The vast kitchen invites you to cook up a lavish meal – ask your host to fill the fridge with local produce prior to your arrival. In the master bedroom, you can wake up and step straight out into the garden through French doors, and if you're one for slower starts, why not indulge in a morning soak in the rolltop bathtub?

It wouldn't be a trip to France without a frequent serving of croissants and pain au chocolat – and as luck would have it, your closest boulangerie is within walking distance. If you have a little more time, travel just fifteen minutes to the medieval town of Sarlat-la-Canéd, where you can treat yourself to the finest French cuisine at the vast indoor market.

Dans les Arbres

Nestled inside its very own vineyard, this luxurious château will be a favourite for wine-lovers and francophiles alike. The regal honey-coloured exterior, with its purple adornment of wisteria, dazzles immediately as you enter the grounds. Inside, the home has been lovingly restored and the rooms are light and spacious. Modern touches and elegant furnishings blend with classical remnants. We especially love the claw foot bath, which will make for a dramatic soak. However, the standout feature of this home is its idyllic surroundings. Watch from your window the workings of the organic, bio-dynamic vineyard and sample the well-known Saint-Émilion Grand Cru. This Chateau provides a perfect base to explore this captivating region. Saint-Émilion is situated just three kilometres away with its golden-cobbled streets providing a delightful maze to get lost in. If you’re craving the hustle and bustle of a more well-renowned city, Bordeaux can be reached via the coast in a little over an hour. 

Grand Cru Wine

Foosball / Table Football

Tennis Court

Once an ancient fortress, before becoming a palace in the seventeenth-century, Cypress Way is more than a beautiful holiday home. Set on twenty-five acres of private land, there's plenty to see and do in this beautiful part of France. The entire property is made up of the main house, as well as a guest house – making it possible for up to twenty-four people to stay here. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion or simply live your best life, Cypress Way could offer a dreamy escape from your daily routines.

Cypress Way

Located just a five-minute drive from Salvagnac, you'll be within easy reach of this country house's local eateries and French bakery. With a private heated swimming pool, outdoor dining area, patio lounge and a games room – it offers luxury home amenities in a humble environment. Perfect for a large family or group of friends, the grounds are huge and surrounded by nature, with grassy areas and ample space and shade for children to run and play. If you're staying here during the colder months, a cosy aesthetic can be found inside where the log burner fireplace offers a tasteful finishing touch. 




The Valley Forge

This beautifully restored home is situated in the heart of one of the most famous wine regions in the world. The property has undergone a remarkable renovation, respecting its heritage and adding 21st-century features. The cosy lounge with a wood-burning stove, satellite TV, and valley views leads to an oak-beamed dining room with chandeliers and a bespoke Neptune-style kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances. The first floor has four bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom and high-end features such as Sonos speakers and USB ports. A games room with table tennis, board games and a gym will appeal to both families and friends. The swimming pool is in a rustic courtyard across the village lane, which also features an alfresco dining table, barbecue, and west-facing terrace with valley views.

White Lark

Simply mentioning Malbec from the ancient family-run vineyards of Cahors can soften the pickiest wine connoisseur. Premier Cru sits by its own such vineyard and has produced some award-winning Malbec over the years. Hosted by a jewellery mogul, the gorgeous refurbished cottage is an architectural gem by itself but that's just the starting point. Cycle by the Lot river to ancient UNESCO world heritage sites and summer music festivals, or swing by the artisan bakeries and Sunday markets. Beauty is everywhere you turn.

Premier Cru

Parking On Premises

Stepping onto the terrace of Le Souhait you’ll feel as though the whole of the Dordogne is at your feet, and you’d be right. This fantasy of a farmhouse is set within seventy acres of a vast walnut orchard with a private pool, a wishing well, and alfresco dining, and it’s a brief drive away from the sunny villages and vineyards of the area. Inside the home, the walls are hung with curiosities, shelves groan with the weight of beautifully bound books, and there seems to be a chandelier in every room. Warm woods, bright colours, and tongue-in-cheek design touches (like the penny farthing bicycle hanging in the hallway) prevent this home from feeling too grand to relax in; it invites you to gather round the farmhouse kitchen table for morning coffee, spend an evening dining on the terrace, or sink into the comfortable queen bed after a long day by the pool. 

Le Souhait

This fully restored castle in the Dordogne manages to merge the modern with the ancient. The stone foundations may date back as early as the 5th-century, but the interior is dotted with modern art and all the little luxuries of modern life. There's over 15 hectares of land to explore, with a swimming pool, terraces, and a barbecue area for al fresco dining. The castle backs on to the vineyards of Bergerac, so you're never too far from a glass of locally produced wine. Should the weather turn, the games room with a billiards table and library with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves provide quality indoor entertainment.

Old World Meets New

Driving up to this 18th-century chateau in the Bergerac region of France might invoke a sense of actually travelling back in time. And if driving in through wrought-iron gates and past decorative moats doesn’t do it, the interior of this beautiful home just might. Between exposed beams, historical fireplaces, rough-stone walls, chandeliers, and a spiral staircase made of stone, you might get lost in the idea that you’re actually living like royalty. Which is exactly the type of attitude we encourage – take it a step further by having high tea out on the terrace, curling up on the period furniture with a classic novel after you’ve kindled a fire, or walking around the 30-hectare estate of woods and meadow in search of the perfect spot for tea and macarons. 

With plenty of space on offer, everyone is sure to find a nook that serves them just right and you might find yours in one of the palatial bedrooms or in a secluded spot in the garden where you can sit down at the bistro table with a glass of wine. 

Come together in and around the pool where you can dangle your feet into the crystal clear water or make use of one of the sunloungers. With seclusion comes peace and tranquillity and this home makes enjoying that environment to the fullest, easy – offering you every opportunity to spend lazy, sun-filled days in whichever way would make you the happiest. If that means exploring, then you can venture to beautifully restored towns such as Sarlat, Bergerac or Périgueux, and if it means golfing, you’d be happy to find a course minutes away. 

Purple Périgord Chateau

Experience a truly unique stay at this beautiful 17th-century country house, nestled in the heart of France’s fabled Wine Country. Surrounded by picturesque villages, vineyards, and rolling green hills, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a painting. 

This home is ideal for groups of friends, with the house separated into three parts, offering everyone privacy as well as a chance to come together and enjoy communal meals and games. As soon as you arrive, you’ll be seduced by the imposing exterior, set against the lush greenery of the garden. With a glistening pool, sun loungers and plenty of alfresco dining spots, there’s no doubt you’ll pass entire days without ever feeling the need to venture beyond the walls of the garden. 

Come inside and you’ll find yourself embraced by the warm and welcoming ambience, with stone walls, wooden ceiling beams and original fireplaces. There’s a huge country kitchen here, perfect for rustling up delectable French classics, and the guest cottage boats an additional kitchen. The whole party will enjoy nights of restful sleep and sweet dreams in the plush bedrooms, spread across the three buildings – in the mornings, welcome each new day with freshly brewed coffee on the terrace. 

Outside your country gem, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to gorgeous places to discover – from the local village of Gensac to the famous Saint Emilion, and of course, you may want to take a day trip to Bordeaux and Arcachon. 

Poet's Reverie 

Lift Access

Rooftop Terrace

On a cliff overlooking the Dordogne River, you'll find a 14th-century castle on beautiful grounds steeped in charm, character and tradition. On top of that, taking the title as one of Europe’s top ten best luxury villas for 2016 by The Telegraph, the chateau boasts scenic French country views for as far as the eye can see. 

Whether you're in the private infinity swimming pool, wandering around the 5 hectares of wooded grounds, or tucking into some local culinary delights and French wine on the patio – this spot offers an awe-inspiring setting from which to relax and enjoy good times. 

If you're looking for a wedding venue or somewhere to hold a special event, look no further, as the picture book setting of the majestic chateau offers an idyllic spot to celebrate with family and friends. With a chapel just a short stroll away in the local village, or space to host a ceremony and reception on-site at the chateau and in the stunning gardens, what more could you ask for? 

Located near the best of the Dordogne and Lot areas, the town of Souillac is only 8 kilometres away and well worth a visit. Meanwhile, the chateau's owner runs a Michelin-starred restaurant nearby – for when you prefer to dine locally. 


French Wine & Good Times 

By sympathetically restoring this 17th-century chateau, this home strikes a beautiful balance between old and new. Find retro checkerboard floors next to modern farm-style appliances, and exposed beams and chandeliers sitting in sharp contrast with modern bathrooms. There is a beautiful harmony in all of the design choices and this sort of careful curation and attention to detail is a true credit to the host. 

Take advantage of the beautiful Aga and cook breakfast for everyone to enjoy alfresco. Of course, if you’d really like to live a life of luxury, you can arrange to have a private chef prepare meals that you can either savour in the striking dining room or out on the terrace. 

Bookworms will love the quiet of the library and office space where they can pass hours reading their favourite books or selecting something new off the shelves here. Others might find themselves entertained in the games room where they can shoot a few rounds of billiards whilst everyone else gathers in and around the private pool. 

With 32 acres at your disposal, walk the grounds in search of the many brooks, canals and ponds. You might even pack a thermos and some macaroons which you can sit down to devour once you’ve found the perfect spot. 

Spend sunny mornings, lazy afternoons, and starlit evenings appreciating all the beauty and tranquillity on offer at this home. Retire to one of the amazing bedrooms when you’re ready, but not before treating yourself to a bubble bath in the rolltop tub.

Begonia Pink & Periwinkle

After a day exploring the historic town of Agen or kayaking along the picturesque River Lot, return home to a slice of history. Lavande Royal is your very own château, dating back to the 17th century. Head outside to discover your private saltwater pool, relax in a hammock and stroll the extensive grounds. On warm evenings, make use of the outdoor summer kitchen area and eat al fresco on the terrace. Lavande Royale was once a hunting castle, visited by the King of France and is now listed as an important site of the ‘Patrimoine de France’ (Heritage of France) – upon setting eyes on your holiday home, you’ll understand why.

Lavande Royale

Outdoor Kitchen

The epitome of countryside charm, this home is situated on a hilltop overlooking the picturesque landscape of Moncrabeau. From the private heated pool and covered terrace, you can admire views of rolling hills and sunflower fields – it’s an idyllic setting. You can even pick fruit from the trees and grapes from the vines for the meals you’ll prepare in the small summer kitchen. Children will love the trampoline and table tennis, while grown-ups will enjoy the 3-kilometre walk into the riverside village of Moncrabeau for the weekly market. 

Sunflower Bliss

As featured on Channel 4’s ‘Escape to the Chateau', this 12th-century castle once saw involvement in the Hundred Years' War, but now offers a storybook retreat. You'll be touching centuries of history as you brush past stone walls and walk spiral staircases. Imagine rolling out of a four-poster bed and admiring the valley views from a former lookout, then curling up in the lounge to learn some French phrases.

Sip cafe au lait before hopping in the plunge pool on summer days. To forget all about your medieval surroundings, rustle up a barbecue dinner and take photos beneath the wisteria. Alternatively, why not hire a private chef to cook a feast fit for a king? In the atmospheric dining room, you'll saunter atop chestnut floors and break bread with your loved ones beside a grand fireplace.

Perched above a vegetable farm, you can stock the kitchen with fresh produce at the weekly village market. Furthermore, this superb home sits within driving distance of several landmarks, including the Château de Beynac – an old stronghold of Richard the Lionheart. From canoeing along the Dordogne river to picnicking in the nearby forest, there's plenty to do in the countryside.

Knight Takes Rook

A honey-coloured stone house in a dreamy riverside location in the Dordogne… Do French getaways get any better than this?

This beautiful house has been a family home for four generations, and you can feel the love that’s been poured into it. The decor is simple and bright so as not to take away attention from the traditional features like exposed stone walls. Wide windows look out onto the river, which is flanked by lush greenery and flowers. 

Wake to the bells of the small church opposite, and take breakfast on the terrace. There’s a romantic feel to this part of the world, particularly in the early morning when the haze still clings to the river. Sip your coffee and breathe in the tranquillity of the region. 

The house is only a six-minute drive from Limeuil, where the Vézère meets the Dordogne. The Panoramic Gardens have the most stunning views – after you’ve drunk in the vista, head to a bistro or cafe nearby. You might also like to paddle along the river, pulling into river beaches to soak up the sunshine – we like to set off from Le Buisson, which is eight minutes away by car. You’re in a great location for day trips of all kinds, whether you want to meander along the narrow medieval streets of Sarlat – forty-three minutes away – or sip local wine at Château de Monbazillac, which takes forty-four minutes in the car. 

Make sure to call in at the local food markets to sample the best produce in the area. After a day out seeing the sights, why not settle in for a family barbecue on the terrace? Splash around in the pool while the barbecue is heating up, and spend your evening under the stars. 


River View Cottage

Amazon Prime

Nintendo Wii

XBox

Dating back to the late 18th century, this spectacular Dordogne manor house has been beautifully restored by its current owners, who've been careful to retain its character while adding those all-important modern conveniences for a stress-free stay. Original features, including marble floors, exposed stone walls and high beamed ceilings remain, with a mix of modern and antique furnishings adding to the overall effect.

Set in a small hamlet right by the river, its bucolic setting affords views of passing boats and swans as they glide serenely by – with only a lightly trafficked road separating you from the water's edge. In fact, one of the highlights of any stay is to spend a couple of hours canoeing downriver, taking in the views.

Return home to acres of grounds that the kids are sure to love exploring. We can picture spending many a sun-soaked afternoon spent by the pool with a glass in hand. With Bergerac, Saint-Émilion and Bordeaux all within driving distance, you're spoiled for local vintages.

Saddle up and cycle to the nearby town of Sainte-Foy-la-Grande, home to a spectacular Saturday market that's ideal for stocking up on essentials. In the opposite direction, the village of Le Fleix is known for its firework production, which guarantees a spectacular Bastille Day celebration. 

After spending your days cycling through vineyards, canoeing down the Dordogne or visiting beautiful local villages, the day ends relaxing by the pool beneath the star-pricked sky, with the scent of lavender filling the air.

Chateau en Suede

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