Sérigeol

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 ‘paysage’ is the backdrop to Sérigeol, a spacious abode brimming with charm and character, and a great choice for a group of friends or a family get together.

Comprised of two buildings, Sérigeol will appeal particularly to a large group where some seek separate independence. The main house (the former farmhouse) retains a delightful rustic character (albeit with modern facilities!) – think wood floors, beamed ceilings, wonky walls and a soft pastel colour palette.  Prunier, the converted prune store, has exposed stone walls and beams and a contemporary feel.  With living areas and a kitchen in each, the whole group can be together or as separate as you wish.    

Front and rear paved terraces are perfect spots for morning coffee and evening dinners, or for simply relaxing under the shade of the trees. Steps lead up to the pool area, where a spacious terrace surrounds the pool and provides ample space for comfortable seating and sun loungers. Alfresco dining is equally well catered for with the terrace by the house and a shaded terrace beyond the pool, which houses the barbecue, preparation area and table, with open views across the fields. Table tennis and pétanque add to the relaxed holiday atmosphere, inviting long summer days spent playing friendly (some might say competitive!) games between swims, meals and moments in the sun. 

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), 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).