On the ground floor of the pigeonnier is a well equipped kitchen (fridge/freezer, ceramic hob, oven, microwave. Laundry facilities on-site). Outside steps lead to a small balcony – nice for an early morning cup of tea or a last look at the stars – and the bedroom (double bed), where an antique grandfather clock, hands stuck permanently at 3 o’clock, makes sure that time stands still for you. Below is a bathroom with shower, washbasin and loo.
At the front, an outside terrace makes the best breakfast spot, and when the sun gets too hot, a second terrace, covered and partially enclosed, with a barbecue, dining area and a couple of armchairs, provides a shady outdoor living space.
Hammocks under the pine trees are just the thing for a siesta and guests have full access to a large, heated swimming pool (5 x 10m/26deg. min.) and their own private entrance.
With Bergerac town (and nearest airport) 30 mins away, and the lovingly restored mediaeval town of Sarlat 40mins in the other direction, it is a perfect base for exploring the Dordogne and Vezere river valleys with their the picturesque towns and villages, wonky houses, fairytale chateaux, and age-old grottos and caves.
Limeuil – where the houses cling precariously to the hill above the confluence of the Dordogne and the Vezere rivers (the nearest beach), Tremolat with its stunning views and wide calm waters, Le Bugue and Lalinde - riverside market towns, Paunat with its massive 12th century abbey are all within 15 minutes drive.
A further 10 minutes will take you to Le Buisson de Cadouin which has reputedly the best river beach for swimming in the Dordogne, or St. Cyprien - the first of several delightful riverside villages (Beynac, Roque Gageac etc.) on the way to Sarlat and beyond.
Restaurants are plentiful and good throughout the region and most of the the villages have night markets and local fairs at the height of summer.
Good for gourmets and gourmands alike!
