Anlhiac holiday barn: Anlhiac, near Hautefort

Why choose to come and stay in Le Bourmier?: Le Bourmier was built in 1792, undoubtedly by an artisan who understood his land and his raw materials. Everything fits together creating harmony between man and nature. I first went there in the Easter of 1991, quite by chance, at the invitation of the previous owner. I walked through the simple front door into the kitchen, and felt that it was a special place. Peacefulness, and a special something about the way this building nestles in the valley and catches the light, drew me to it. A year later I bought the property! Anlhiac is an exceptionally beautiful village, with two chateaux, an unusual church open to the public and a very welcoming community. The restaurant and cafe, (also shop for bread and basic groceries), are a few minutes' walk from the barn in the village square. Just up the road is the splendid Chateau d'Essendieras, former home of writer Andre Maurois and which now offers golf, horse riding and an excellent restaurant.

Cultural history: This part of the world is one of the centres of prehistory, and where we can learn how we lived tens of thousands of years ago. The world museum of prehistory at Les Eyzies is superb, as are the facsimiles of the cave paintings at Lascaux, and the real thing (still open to the public) at Font de Gaume, Les Combarelles, and Teyjat. In medieval times the troubadours created a new poetry which was the foundation of the western poetic tradition. Two of the most famous, Giraut de Bornelh and Bertran de Born, lived nearby in the marvellous castles of Hautefort and Excideuil. Visits led by a local specialist to Excideuil (in French or English) can be arranged. Limoges (1 hour's drive) is another great cultural centre for glass, porcelain and enamel. The famous forge at Savignac is only 15 minutes' drive, or can be reached by the walking trail (of which there are many) along the river Auvezere. There is also a museum of a unique paper mill, Papeterie de Vaux, which used rye straw.

'Le Bourmier' - Ideal for writers, or as a retreat: This part of the Perigord is unspoilt, and with little traffic. The barn is situated in the 'lieu dit' (hamlet) of Le Bourmier, part of the village of Anlhiac and is ideal for those wishing to go on retreat. It is also very suitable for writers and artists, offering a supportive environment and relative solitude. Special rates on request for guests wishing to stay for longer periods. The area abounds in natural lakes where you can swim, beautiful rivers for canoeing, or discovering on foot. I found a huge drift of wild aspholdels on the bank of the river Auvezere one Easter. From the house ornithologists can hear the hoopoe, and many other birds. One of my guests saw a hobby catch a swift on the wing. Horse riding and golf are available at the chateau Essendieras 5 minutes' drive away. Please be aware that the barn is semi detached with the owner's farmhouse. There is therefore some shared space. Total seclusion may be offered on request.

Golf: There is a new championship 9 hole golf course at the nearby Chateau d'Essendieras only 10 minutes' drive from the barn.

Other Activities: caving, canoeing.

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