La Périgourdine

The undulating green countryside between the Dordogne and Garonne rivers is liberally sprinkled with fruit orchards, vineyards and impressive bastides that remain untouched by time. It was close to the bastide of Castillonnès that we came across La Périgourdine, dating back to 1776 and built using the local materials of cream coloured stone, topped by a pitched tiled roof. It is now a charming cottage set in open grounds of garden, woodland and fields.

The country feel continues inside, with exposed stone and colour-washed walls creating a pleasing backdrop to the wood furniture painted in soft pastel hues. In the kitchen, one wall has large picture windows allowing you to prepare dinner with a view over the dining terrace and pool. To one side, the ancient round bread oven has been renovated and is now a utility/storage area. There is a spacious living and dining room and a smaller TV area, which opens out onto the gardens, whilst a double bedroom complete with en suite bathroom on the ground floor is perfect for those wanting an extra degree of privacy. A traditional staircase leads up to a further two spacious bedrooms and shower room on the first floor.

Outside, step across the dining terrace to the fenced pool, framed prettily by an array of cottage flowers and plants. There is plenty of space for children to play and adults to relax with a book in the shade of the trees.

Beyond the field and woodland which form the property’s boundary lies the road to Castillonnès (3km) and Bergerac (23km). Dominating the green Dropt valley, Castillonnès has a number of shops and restaurants, as well as a weekly market (Tuesdays) which still takes place in the main square. To the north, Bergerac is a picturesque town on the banks of the River Dordogne. Take a stroll along the cobbled streets lined with timber framed buildings, followed by a trip on one of the old fashioned ‘gabarre’ boats. On the way home, stop off at one of the many vineyards near Monbazillac to purchase a bottle or two of the local wine.