Le Pible, June 2009
Review Submitted: July 15, 2009
Date of Stay: June 2009
This property lives up to expectation. It really is a stunning farmhouse, really comfortable with a 'dream kitchen' stocked with fresh herbs from the garden! The pool is also fabulous, set amongst its own wallled garden with lounge chairs and dining table. Our 2 year old wouldn't venture in to the pool and we think this was because it only had a ladder and not steps, something we hadn't given any thought to, but others with little ones may need to consider? The setting is also incredible and private, where you can enjoy the garden, barn with table tennis, badmington and boules as well as free run of the surrounding meadows. We enjoyed many an evening on the large terrace overlooking the meadows whilst sipping some local wines.
The area is 'as described' rural and tranquil and a car is essential. We hadn't done this type of holiday before and we did on accassion miss being near to amenities, such as bars, restaurants, shops etc. The area immediately surrounding Le pible, is a little steep and you would therefore need to be reasonably fit to cycle to the nearest village with ameneties - St Severin.
We found the french mealtimes of 12 til 2 and 7-9 quite restrictive, particularly with a small child who goes to bed early evening, so ate in a lot more than anticipated.
There is plenty to do in the area, particularly if you are prepared to do longer drives on some days. We enjoyed canoeing at Aubeterre Sur Donne, which is a pretty town about 15 mins away, as well as day trips to St Emillion, which is gorgeous, and Futuroscope. It is also definately worth a trip to the neighbouring Dordonne, we took a boat trip which was lovely, the river is fantastic, very beautiful and very clean with lots of beaches and great views of chattauxs on the cliffs. For this reason, and to truely make the most of this fabulous property you do need 2 weeks. We probably would not have booked 2 weeks had we been given the choice, and so were really glad that it was for a fortnight.
The owner Jane was incredibly helpful and helped us with organising a few days out, printing things of the internet for us and ringing places up to find out opening times etc.
We would recommend this property to anyone who is looking for an amazing property in rural France.
Owner's Response: It's extremely helpful to others when past guests take the trouble to send in reviews and we do greatly appreciate the time they take to compile. Certainly I think Susan's mention of 1-2 yr olds access into the pool is very valid - the pool (10m x 5m) is accessed by steps down into a good sized shallow end (2m x 5m), which then slopes on down to a 2m depth diving end making it ideal for general family fun! Large terraces around the pool give plenty of room for sun loungers etc and space for children to play.
Montignac Le Coq, like many of the other small villages in the locality sits majestically on the top of one of the many gently rolling hills which feature across this region of France, hence it enjoys beautiful views across this wonderful landscape - whilst at the same time the country tracks and lanes, that provide such enjoyable walks and cycle rides are a pleasure to explore: picturesque views, quaint little farm buildings and generally a little local café in which to sit and relax!
As so many people have mentioned over the years, one week's stay is simply not enough! No soon as you've started to relax, it's virtually time to pack up again, Susan and her family found that the two week stay gave them plenty of time in which to relax, really enjoy the French way of life and make the very best of their holiday - we look forward very much to their return visit one day.
Did you find this review helpful?
Yes
No
Helpful votes: 1/1
