The countryside south of Bergerac offers enticing vistas of rolling hills covered with orderly rows of vines, fields filled with sunflowers, and charming villages with the essential bakery and weekly market teeming with local produce. This quintessential French setting is the backdrop to La Maison Prunier, a stone barn (once used to dry the plums from the surrounding land) which has been sympathetically and stylishly transformed into beautiful accommodation for a couple or friends holidaying together.
Taking centre stage inside is the open plan living area where old and new meet in perfect harmony. Immense wood beams and exposed stone walls create an impressive framework for the modern kitchen diner and living area. Adding a stylish contemporary note are the velvet seating in jewel colours and the sparkly chandeliers hanging from the double height ceiling. Other striking features in this gorgeous cottage include the open plan en suite bathroom in the master double bedroom where the curve of the stone wall accentuates the curves of the rolltop bath, as well as the gold accents in the second double bedroom.
Front and rear paved terraces are perfect spots for morning coffee and evening dinners, or for simply relaxing under the shade of the trees. Just across the courtyard, steps lead up to the pool area, where a spacious terrace surrounds the pool and provides ample space for comfortable seating and sunloungers. Alfresco dining is not forgotten either: a covered terrace just above the pool area is home to the barbecue, preparation area and dining table, with open views across the fields.
There is a small ‘épicerie’ in Lougratte (5 minute drive) for essentials such as fresh bread and croissants, with more amenities and restaurants in Castillonnès (9km) and Cancon (10km). Ideas for active days out include canoeing (choose from the Dordogne, Dropt or Lot rivers), walking and cycling (bikes can be hired locally), a treetop activity park for children and adults alike and boat trips from Bergerac along the Dordogne. Those seeking more leisurely pursuits will enjoy a stroll around one of the many delightful bastides, such as Eymet and Issigeac, a wine tasting or two at a wine chateau in the region (Monbazillac and Duras spring to mind) or exploring little known gardens such Latour Marliac (35km) with its collection of water lilies and the rose filled Jardin de Boissonna (45km).
