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Satellite / Cable TV

Smart TV

Blu Ray Player

Board Games

DVD Library

DVD Player

Games Room

Home Cinema Setup

Library of Books

Ping Pong Table

Pool / Snooker Table

Projector

Sound System

Entertainment

Baby Bath

Bathtub

Hair Dryer

Luxury Toiletries

Toiletries

Bathroom

Blender

Cafetiere

Children's Dinnerware

Coffee Maker

Cooking Essentials

Dishwasher

Espresso Machine

Freezer

Fridge

High Chair

Kettle

Kitchen

Kitchen Utensils

Microwave

Oven

Pod Coffee Machine

Stove

Toaster

Kitchen & Dining

Private Washing Machine

Private Dryer

Cleaning Products

Cot / Crib

Dryer

Drying Rack

Extra Pillows and Blankets

Hangers

Iron

Ironing Board

Laundry Supplies

Luxury Bedding

Vacuum Cleaner

Washing Machine

Black-Out Blinds

Bedroom & Laundry

Outdoor Pool

Private Pool

Exercise Equipment

Swimming Pool

Wellness & Fitness

Desk

Electricity Adaptors

Laptop Friendly Workspace

Wi-fi

Workplace

Internet & Office

Central Heating

Fireplace

Heating & Cooling

Free Parking On Premises

Secured Parking

Private Parking

Bike Shed

Gated Community

Parking Available

Self Check-in / Check-out

Private Entrance

Parking & Access

Balcony

Barbeque

Beach / Pool Towels

Courtyard

Fenced Garden

Fenced Pool

Fenced Property

Garden

Garden Games

Hammock

Herb Garden

Outdoor Fireplace / Firepit

Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor Seating

Patio / Terrace

Pool House

Rooftop Terrace

Sun Loungers / Beach Chairs

Sun Umbrellas

Outdoor

Throws

Welcome Hamper

Nice to haves

Pet Basket

Pets Allowed

Pets

Carbon Monoxide Detector

Child Friendly

Fire Extinguisher

Smoke Detector

First Aid Kit

Other

This chateau was in the same family from the 17th century to 1980 and then acquired by the current host in the last 12 months. A stay here will quickly reveal why they are probably so reluctant to let it slip out of their grasp.

The perks start before you even reach the home itself. Fifteen acres of well-kempt grounds feature everything from a wildflower meadow and orchards to a private lake surrounded by woodland paths. A little closer to the property, there's a swimming pool to cool off during the summer months, an outdoor kitchen with a firepit, plus alfresco tables on the terrace with scenic views of the local valley.

Behind the home's front door, guests are treated to three floors of lavish living space with a wealth of antique furnishings, grand chandeliers and cosy fireplaces. However, despite this historic appearance, a recent renovation has brought the chateau up to 21st-century standards, including an updated kitchen. There are also a lot of games and activities to keep youngsters entertained, from the slate-based pool table to a cinema room.

Travelling in a larger group? The grange is available upon request and can accommodate an additional four guests, bringing the total occupancy up to 18.

While there's certainly a sense of seclusion at the address, the market town of Thivers is only one kilometre away when you need shops or restaurants. Throughout the surrounding area, it's possible to fill days with visits to castles, wine tastings or outdoor activities. 

It Runs in the Family

Rain Shower

Heated Pool

Bicycles

Doze in the sunshine and let the scent of peonies, magnolias and roses drift over you on a gentle breeze. This idyllic Dordogne home is a haven, set in a valley of rolling countryside. When you’re not stretched out on a sun lounger, you’ll be swimming laps in the solar-heated salt-water pool, and listening to the fountain trickle softly in the background. Tuck into alfresco feasts on the terrace – there’s a barbecue and pizza oven to make cooking as easy as can be. When the sun has set, settle around the fire pit with a bottle of local wine, and sit out late spotting constellations in the clear sky above. 

The house itself is wonderful. The contemporary living space is the heart of the home, with high ceilings and plenty of light. There’s enough room for everyone to gather together here, though there are also peaceful corners for those quieter moments – we love the reading nook. 

In addition to its wonderful charm and beauty, this home is in an excellent location. Hop on bikes to cycle into the village for a coffee and a bite to eat in a cafe-bar, or to shop locally. The Friday morning market in nearby Ribérac is one of the best in the area – head there to pick up local produce for dinner. Aubeterre-sur-Donne, one of France’s prettiest villages, is just a short drive away. There’s so much to see and do here, you’ll want to return time and again. 


Peony Blushes

Safety Gates

When in France, it might feel like a cliché to stay in a château with six hectares of land in your kingdom. Well, we say long live clichés. This original 18th-century mansion is just a fifteen-minute walk from the medieval town of Dignac, where you can browse the market or stop in for a pastis. But your private estate offers plenty of reasons for you to stay put.

You’ve got panoramic vistas of the Aquitaine countryside to satisfy your appetite for the natural world, and striking architecture for you to marvel at man made wonder. The cream walls of the exterior stand out among the thick forests of the estate. Its grey pointed rooftops and turrets cast an imposing shadow onto your pool terrace. Dine alfresco on a balmy evening, or follow the steps up past an elegant balustrade to enter the home.

Original in every sense of the word, the entrance boasts vaulted ceilings, an oak staircase, and corniced ceilings. While tradition dominates the decor, we love the modern twists – wood-panelled walls painted pale blue and an inglenook used as a cavity for the hob. Not that you need to cook often, with a private chef on hand whenever you fancy.

Le Garde Forestier

Foosball / Table Football

This historic manoir was built for the owner of one of the Cognac producing estates in the 19th century. It's now an impressive holiday home with elegant interiors, 3.5 hectares of parkland, a private swimming pool and glorious views over the garden towards Cognac. As guests walk through the grand entrance hall, they will immediately be struck by the sense of space that permeates this 600m2 home. The high ceilings lend an air of grandeur to many of the rooms, creating an unforgettable ambiance. The enchanting features don't end there: families will love the table football, pool table, boules, and ping pong, while nature enthusiasts can explore the vast gardens with century-old trees and a pond. And all this without sacrificing convenience - located on the edge of Cognac, guests are only 4.5km away from excellent restaurants, charming lanes, famous distilleries, and a bustling covered market. With its perfect blend of history, elegance, and tranquility, this manor will provide an unforgettable holiday experience.

Historic Vineyard Manor

So much love and hard work has gone into this beautifully restored Dordogne farmhouse set above a watermill in a little hamlet near the banks of the Dronne River, just a short walk from a traditional riverside village and magnificent château. Maison Aimée is an incredibly charming and welcoming home for your holiday in northern Dordogne with its 4 bedrooms, grand living space with feature fireplace, cosy snug with exposed stone walls, and delightful al-fresco dining under the old ash tree. The stunning master bedroom boasts its own balcony, while two double bedrooms and an attic bedroom offer comfortable accommodation for guests. Outside, relax by the pool surrounded by flower beds or explore the nearby village, Brantôme and other charming towns in the region. Experience the beauty and tranquillity of northern Dordogne at this enchanting property.

Château Charme

Paid Parking

Buzzer / Wireless Intercom

Single-Level Home

Paid Parking On Street

Located in the heart of Bordeaux's beautiful old town, this apartment embodies the class, style, and chicness of this city. The old stone building is the perfect first impression of Bordeaux, and stepping inside the apartment only confirms that this place is a gem of a find.

We love the classic details here – the original stone brick wall, the quintessentially French windows and the frame around the mirror. It's met with a modern design style that beautifully encapsulates the city – classic yet youthful. Your balcony offers a view of the street below, a lovely spot for enjoying a fresh cup of coffee and engaging in everyone's favourite past-time, people-watching. 

When it comes to seeing the city, you couldn't ask for a better location. You're a mere 200 metres from the lively Rue Sainte Catherine, the city's main artery, bursting with boutiques and shops. You're also steps away from Place Fernand Lafargue, lined with cafes and eateries. In such a fantastic location, seeing the city's many historical sights and points of interest comes with ease.

After a day of exploring, you can easily make your way back to your apartment to relax before heading out for dinner. You'll love sipping on a local bottle of wine (when in Bordeaux) and snacking on olives around the industrial chic-style table, with the warm-toned light fixtures setting the tone. 

Sweet Drops

Air Conditioning

Boasting a central location in charming Châteauroux, this bright apartment promises you easy access to the must-see Musée Bertrand and the nearby Equinoxe National Scene theatre. Even better, you'll find the beautiful Librairie Arcanes bookshop right around the corner, as well as international restaurants waiting to entice you. Or, for a quiet afternoon in the city, pack a picnic basket and stroll down to the Jardin des Capucins.

Throwing a contemporary twist on Art Deco design, this home is brilliant for business trips and romantic getaways alike. Wake up early and wander into the kitchen to make crepes for breakfast. Then, take a cup of Nespresso coffee over to this little workstation and check your emails. Before you go out sightseeing, freshen up beneath the rainfall shower. When you come back in the evening, we're sure you'll want to snuggle on this blue velvet sofa. Just don't forget to open a bottle of French wine as you plan out tomorrow's itinerary. 

In Four Colours

Parking On Street

There’s so much vibrant energy in the beautiful city of Bordeaux, and a stay at this elegant and comfortable apartment will allow you to experience all of it. Situated in a historic building dating back to 1894, right in the heart of the old town, this pad is the perfect base for a family or a small group of friends wanting to make the most out of their time here. 

While there are quite a few steps to climb here, it’ll prove worth it as you step inside to be greeted by a large living room, bathed in streams of natural light flooding in through the floor-to-ceiling windows. We love the gorgeous wooden floors and the cinema-themed posters adorning the walls – and of course, there are those fantastic views of the city, which you can catch a glimpse of from the inside. But to truly appreciate them, step out onto the balcony, where a table and chairs also await. 

Back inside, you can kick back and relax on the plush sofa, ideal for evenings of movies and that famous wine. You can rustle up a delicious French dinner in the well-equipped kitchen and share it with your loved ones at the dining table. 

 After a day of city adventures, a night of restful sleep will find you in the comfy bedrooms – wake up feeling restored and ready for more exploring. Outside your front door, you’ll find yourself within easy access to many of Bordeaux’s top attractions, including its eclectic restaurants and charming cafes. Visit La Cité du Vin to find out all about the city's love affair with wine or Les Bassins des Lumières for an immersive art experience. 

In the City of Wine 

Tucked away in the Cote de Bourg area just north of Bordeaux, this fairytale 19th-century chartreuse overlooks beautiful vineyards and the rolling landscape beyond. The seclusion makes this a tranquil getaway – especially when swimming in the private pool or enjoying the ample seating outside – but with this being an active vineyard, it's also a unique way to experience the French countryside. The interior, all rustic rafters and palatial furnishings, might not be everyone's cup of tea, but there's plenty of space and charm here. It is worth noting that there are only three bathrooms to share between fourteen guests. The country house is bold and full of character, and the pool table is a nice touch too.

Comte de Montagny

Desk / Workplace

Umbrellas

Set overlooking the golf course of La Palmyre, this whimsical villa in Les Mathes is bathed in an abundance of natural light and welcomes guests to retreat to its garden of sand and pines. 

While luxury designs and amenities grace the villa from the inside out, you'll feel as though you're staying in the wilderness even when spending time inside the home here. Despite double exposure from east to west, the home isn't at all overlooked, meaning you'll benefit from utmost privacy. Open up the whopping bi-fold doors to bring the outside in – the transitioning indoor-outdoor living spaces make for a sociable stay. Meanwhile, seven stylish bedroom suites, each with its own en-suite bathroom grant everyone in the group their own personal space – important for precious moments of solitude. 

In the garden a wealth of fauna and flora surrounds, creating an idyllic hideaway and escape from reality. Relaxing, meditating, doing yoga or simply reading your book in peace will provide you with an utterly blissful experience in this serene setting. Oh, and you'll have your own heated swimming pool to make a splash in here too. 

With the nearest sandy beach, only a 300 metre walk away – you'll have the choice of staying here in your own private haven or exploring France's western coastline. Why not take adventurous trips out to discover the picturesque locale? Ile de Oleron is reachable in just a fifty-minute drive up north and boasts stunning beaches and seafood opportunities galore. 


Whimsical Wilderness 

Underfloor Heating

Access to Beach

Whether you’re in search of a lakeside adventure or a slow-paced French escape, this home invites you to enjoy it all from its privileged position on the sandy shores of Lac d’Hourtin-Carcans. 

From leisurely strolls along the promenade to wild swimming and hiking in nearby Étang de Lacanau, you’ll find every sense serenaded by the natural charm of this location. And for those in search of the refreshing spirit of the Atlantic sea, it’s just a five-minute drive to Carcans beach or a little further on to Lacanau. 

Wherever the day takes you, this home provides a refreshingly simple space to relax and unwind. Enjoy the beautiful views whilst sipping drinks on the terrace, savour the comfort of cooking with fresh local produce in the fully equipped kitchen and come together for heart-warming evenings around the table – accompanied by a glass (or two) of local wine. 

Golden Lake

Tucked away in the idyllic hamlet of le Deu, within the picturesque coastal resort of Dolus d'Oléron, discover the mesmerizing charm of this single-family house, known as 'The property'. Just a leisurely 1.5 km stroll from the sea and sandy beach at Vert-Bois, this stunning retreat offers a haven of tranquility. Immerse yourself in the exquisite beauty of this 4-room, 150 m2 house spread over two charming levels. Step inside and be greeted by the warmth and elegance of the beautifully furnished living/dining area. The open kitchen is a chef's paradise, fully equipped with modern appliances and a delightful terrace for al fresco dining. Upstairs, three enchanting bedrooms beckon you with their comfort and serenity. Relax on one of two terraces overlooking the peaceful courtyard. With reserved parking for two cars, Internet access, and various nearby attractions including museums and historic landmarks, this non-smoking oasis offers everything families need for an unforgettable escape to the French coast.

Serenity Cove

Staying in a renovated farmhouse with Dordogne river only steps from your your garden is a true treat, but there's more to The Fountain Garden the its location. The outdoor spots are beautifully relaxing and they'll make you feel like you're starring in your own movie about living it up in France while you admire the views. When you're not watching the world sail by, drive around the area and explore the nearby vineyards, villages, and galleries that make this regional's so popular with seekers of cultured getaways. After a long day of adventuring, return to your rustic abode for a well deserved meal whipped up in the well-equipped kitchen. This home has an honesty bar filled with delicious locally produced wines, which you can freely pair with your meals. If you're more of an alfresco diner, get the barbecue going and then digest in the back yard hammock. In the evening, relax in the cosy living room and organise a movie night while you reflect on the memories you made in Dordogne.

The Fountain Garden

Few things sounds more romantic than a cottage situated in the middle of wine country, where the endless vineyards sprawl and birds chirp. Perfect for a long-awaited holiday away from the kids or a getaway for a budding romance, the home is small but its surroundings are vast and baby-blue French shutters are ever-so charming. Escape right out to the private gardens from the pastel bedroom. After days lounging by the pool or drifting in the nearby river, take the bikes to one of two nearby towns to explore gothic churches and to pick up local delicacies like fresh truffles and a bottle (or two) of wine for enjoyment on the stone terrace. Intimacy is the emphasis here, and we can guarantee this home as a perfect start to a French-inspired love story. 

Gardenia

Wine Cooler

Wine Cellar

Nestled inside its very own vineyard, this luxurious château will be a favourite for wine-lovers and francophiles alike. The regal honey-coloured exterior, with its purple adornment of wisteria, dazzles immediately as you enter the grounds. Inside, the home has been lovingly restored and the rooms are light and spacious. Modern touches and elegant furnishings blend with classical remnants. We especially love the claw foot bath, which will make for a dramatic soak. However, the standout feature of this home is its idyllic surroundings. Watch from your window the workings of the organic, bio-dynamic vineyard and sample the well-known Saint-Émilion Grand Cru. This Chateau provides a perfect base to explore this captivating region. Saint-Émilion is situated just three kilometres away with its golden-cobbled streets providing a delightful maze to get lost in. If you’re craving the hustle and bustle of a more well-renowned city, Bordeaux can be reached via the coast in a little over an hour. 

Grand Cru Wine

Located in the Bassin d’Arcachon, this charming home sits like a gateway to the refreshing beauty of southwest France. And with views across the surrounding trees, this is the kind of space that has all the qualities of a sanctuary in the woods. 

Stepping inside, you’ll find the gentle lighting and artistic presence of this home provides an instant sense of ease and calm. It’s the perfect place to let go of to–do lists and embrace the simple magic of coastal living. 

Open the doors from the living room and you’ll find the outdoor terrace is perfectly poised for relaxing mornings with a coffee or dreamy sunset drinks. From here, the space opens itself up to slow days reading on the sofa, cooking and sharing atmospheric candle–lit dinners. 

Outside, it’s just a five–minute drive into the centre of Arcachon where the Atlantic Ocean awaits. This is the ideal setting to connect with the vibrant beachside atmosphere, sample the famous oysters and savour the views from Dune of Pilat – just a five–minute drive away. Golfers will also love the close proximity to Golf d’Arcachon – just a three–minute drive away. 

The Blue View

Heated Towel Rail

Free Parking On Street

Only around 200m away from the bay, this home near the popular Arcachon Basin exudes calm from the moment you lay your eyes on it. Tucked away between trees, and with an ocean view from the backyard, it seems to encourage you to switch off, forget about time, and simply exist on your own terms. 

Inside, the combination of modern furnishings, eclectic decorative pieces, and some of the original features – the flooring and archways remain untouched – makes for a beautiful space that feels fresh but with Basque character. 

Spend mornings enjoying coffee with a side of fresh air and contemplation as you step out onto the balcony right off the master bedroom. Of course, you can also slip into the garden to claim one of the sun loungers, turning yourself, like a sunflower, towards the source of the warmth. 

After lunch at the rattan dining table, pour wine – not forgetting the cheese and crackers to nibble on – and find comfort on the shaded terrace. If you’d like to get even better acquainted with the landscapes of La Teste-de-Buch, you can visit the Dune du Pilat or spend the day at the beach.

Red Fences

Netflix

Built in 1611, this elegant chateau is where historic grandeur meets contemporary luxury. Arriving to Le Roi through the classical iron gates, you’ll feel like royalty. With the option to dine under a magnificent chandelier with food prepared by your very own private chef in the gastronomical centre of France, this home is a real life fairy-tale. And with stunning grounds to explore and panoramic views of the French countryside, it’s certainly not short of space to relax and unwind. If you’re looking for that je-ne-sais-quoi, Le Roi has it all.

Le Roi

Lift Access

With its long licks of golden sand, fragrant pine forests and impeccable oysters, Arcachon is an unmissable spot on the southwest coast of France. And where better to base yourself than this modern apartment, situated in the heart of town, just a minute’s walk from the seafront. Inside the abode, we loved the subtle nautical touches and we couldn’t get enough of the south-facing balcony, especially at sundown with a glass of red in hand. Rustle up French culinary classics in the compact kitchenette or dine out at a seafood restaurant a five-minute walk from your doorstep. Spend warm afternoons cycling along the promenade, then take the fifteen-minute drive to survey the landscape from Dune du Pilat, Europe’s highest sand dune. When the day draws to a close, retreat home to your quiet bedroom for a blissful slumber in your comfortable bed.

Sea Salt Spray

Sit back, relax and drink in Bordeaux's unforgettable charm at this cosy hideaway in the heart of the historic city centre. Just a short walk from Rue Sainte Catherine, Place de la Bourse and Grosse Cloche, you'll be incredibly located for whatever tickles your fancy, be it sightseeing, shopping or sampling the region's most famous wines. 

A stroll along the Garonne River will get your day off to a great start, as will a delicious pastry from a local boulangerie. Following an alfresco lunch, discover the city's renowned museums in the afternoons while evenings call for dinner, drinks and a grand night at the Opéra National, also within walking distance.

If you prefer a laid-back approach to your travels, this third-floor apartment is just the ticket. Nestled in a stone building dating back to the 19th century, there's plenty of character to fall in love with here – we're talking exposed stone walls, wooden beams and typical Parisian-style windows with wrought-iron balconettes. 

Come home after a long day, kick off your shoes and unwind in style. Prepare your own take on classic French dishes in the kitchen – best served, of course, with a glass of Bourdeaux's dry red at the stylish island. A soak in the bathtub is the perfect way to end the day, or simply snuggle up with a book on the sofa before bed, instead. 

Decanter

Parking On Premises

This home is situated in the heart of the Chartrons district, just two minutes from Rue Notre Dame and its many antique shops. On the Garonne banks, Bordeaux's Chartrons district is a sought-after area. You’ll find here the luxury residences of former wine and antique merchants. The neighbourhood is well connected too, and it couldn’t be simpler to get around the city. Tram line B is 50 metres away, while tram line C (200 metres) has services to Bordeaux Station, taking around fifteen minutes.

Back at this abode, relax on the terrace with a glass of local wine or unwind on the sofa in the first-floor open-plan living space. We love the mix of industrial vibe (think pallet box coffee tables and polished concrete ceilings), which contrasts with the vintage prints. Rustle up some le magret de canard grille (grilled duck) in the modern kitchen, and enjoy it with some cèpes en persillade (porcini mushrooms in parsley) at your dining table. This home allows friends, family or work colleagues to live like a local. 

Red, Red Bordeaux Wine

It's not every day you find a place with two outdoor spaces in the heart of a city. This gem of a home is putting an end to the idea that being in the city centre automatically means forfeiting space. Here, location, style, comfort, and luxury have beautifully been combined to bring you a showstopper. 

There's a lot to love here, from the contemporary interior to the fantastic location, but the outdoor space takes the cake. There's something wonderful about waking up in the morning and stepping straight outside to feel the sun on your face, and here, you get that small but special treat from each bedroom. Invigorating fresh coffees in the sun are the perfect way to start the day. Whether you're on the rooftop terrace or the patio, you'll feel a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Bordeaux city centre, despite being close to all the action.

Exploring Bordeaux comes easy here. You're just a five-minute walk from the tram, which takes you all across the city. Or, you can take to the wine metropolis on foot – you're just 1.5km away from the historic centre. There, you can take a walk along the famous promenade which is lined by restaurants and bars, discover the city's museums, and spot some notable sights, like the 11th-century Bordeaux Cathedral. 

However you spend your day, you'll love coming home to your bright, welcoming home. Take the spiral stairs up to the rooftop terrace, armed with a bottle of local wine, to watch the sky envelop into hues of reds and oranges at dusk. When dinner rolls around, your kitchen is perfectly equipped for whipping up meals at home. But if you don't feel like cooking, there are several brilliant restaurants nearby, ready to welcome you. 

City Tropicale

Combining French Regency style with sleek modern accents, this elegant apartment in the heart of the Golden Triangle is an excellent launch-pad for discovering the very best of Bordeaux. Wake up with an espresso and a buttery croissant in the opulent living space – we loved the double height ceilings, parquet flooring and triptych of French doors. Recline on the plush sofa with a crossword puzzle until you’re ready to take the city by storm. 

Spend sunny afternoons strolling around the nearby Jardin Public before nipping into the Museum of Decorative Arts and Design. Visit the iconic Place de la Bourse, treat yourself to a shopping spree on the Rue Sainte-Catherine and admire the 15th-century Porte Cailhau. In the early evening, after a bite to eat in a revered brasserie, head home with a bottle of the region’s famous wine and enjoy a glass or two on your private balcony as the sky turns violet. 

The Régence

This newly renovated apartment in central Bordeaux, home to largest urban World Heritage Site, is perfect for couples and small families. Cute and quirky, this fabulous French home features a lovely, light filled open plan kitchen cum dining cum living room characterised by pops of red, contrasting coloured wall paper.  You’ll love waking up in your idiosyncratically decorated room for two, and delighting in a rain shower before breakfast in the white tiled kitchen. Read, relax or watch the world go by from the sofa next to the window while making a plan for the day. This home’s superb location in the semi-pedestrian Saint-Pierre district, the city’s historic heart, means you’ll be wandering the cobbled streets and stumbling across picturesque squares in no time. 

A stone’s throw from the best Bordeaux has to offer by way of museums and cultural heritage sites as well as restaurants and bars, why not plot a course through the Place du Parlement, the Place du Palais or the Place de la Bourse, before visiting CAPC, the musée d'art contemporain, Saint-André Cathedral, and the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux? You won’t want to miss out on sampling both Bordelais premiers crus and cuisine and vibrant Saint-Pierre hosts a sassy mix of traditional French kitchens, experimental neobistros, creative fusion restaurants, food trucks and barista-run coffee shops, a gastronomic scene that is sure to impress even the most discerning of bon vivants.


Paper, Prints & Pops of Colour

With its timber exterior and chalet-esque shape, you could be forgiven for envisioning some rustic living quarters upon first glance of this home close to Arcachon Bay. However, step behind the glass doors and guests are greeted by a contemporary interior bathed in natural light and furnished with Scandi-style furnishings – not to mention a super-sleek kitchen designed with minimalism in mind.

However, this is a corner of France in which people try to pass as many hours as possible spent outside and you can do that on the home's verandah, complete with a lounge, barbecue and alfresco dining table, which overlooks the local forest. Alternatively, there's a swimming pool shared with other local residences on the site in which to splash about on warm afternoons, plus children's play equipment, a volleyball court and a bowling green.

And that's not forgetting the wealth of attractions that await in the nearby area. The Dune of Pilat – the tallest in Europe – can be reached on foot via a hiking route and there's also a great selection of beaches in the local region. Both the towns of Arcachon and La Teste-de-Buch have plenty of markets, restaurants and grand architecture to discover, too.

Saunter the Shoreline

Wheelchair Access

Journey through the vineyards of Bordeaux before finding yourself at this stone villa on the bank of the Dordogne. The highlight of this stay for us is not only the view of the romantic river, but the direct access to it via a private dock or one of the included kayaks. If you do happen to tire of a lazy day by the river (or pool if you’d rather), explore the private gardens, scenic as a Monet painting, and pick at seasonal treats for your family or friends to snack on. Speaking of food, you can take the bikes out to the nearby boulangerie for croissants and tarts. We should also mention that the local farm’s goats cheese selection is sensational, especially when paired with wines from the neighbouring vineyards. 

River Days

Located in the beating heart of Bordeaux, this apartment may be small, but it packs a punch. Step inside the stone building and you immediately feel the sense of how old mixes effortlessly with new here. Glide up the stairs to the second floor, into your apartment, and you’ll be utterly charmed. Your eyes will naturally be drawn to the French doors, nestled either side of a stunning stretch of unspoilt stone. Light is ushered in through the generous windows – throw the doors open and you’ll be able to enjoy the breeze that floats gently into the home, too. The classic fireplace and wainscoting put the final elegant touches to this room, washing a sense of serenity over you from the moment you arrive.

Wander through to your bedroom and you’ll find a comfortable bed just inviting you to take a nap. Next to it, a generous Italian shower promises to wake you up in the most refreshing way in the mornings. This area is a little haven to enjoy when tiredness sets in from a day of exploring Bordeaux.

You couldn't be better placed when you’re ready to head out into the city. With the Grand Theatre, Place de la Bourse, Rue Sainte Catherine and the Quays all within easy reach, you’ll never be short of somewhere to visit, dine or relax with loved ones. 

Claret Heart

Experience a comfortable villa tucked away in the peaceful residential district of Andernos-les-Bains. A short journey from Arcachon and Bordeaux, this hidden gem provides a retreat from the familiar, only moments away from the calming waves of sea. Within this private playground, sits a natural garden embracing a swimming pool, offering seasonal solace under the sun. The open living area invites light and laughter, while the soothing tones of the separate lounge provide respite. Each bedroom sings a lullaby of comfort for dreamy nights. Explore culinary magic in an open kitchen, using local produce to create unforgettable meals. Escape to your personal paradise amidst nature’s bounty. Listen to silence singing lullabies at nightfall; witness dawn painting stories on canvas each morning. Please note that this property suits families best, cherishes quietness and expects respectful behavior.

Villa of the Sea

This fully restored castle in the Dordogne manages to merge the modern with the ancient. The stone foundations may date back as early as the 5th-century, but the interior is dotted with modern art and all the little luxuries of modern life. There's over 15 hectares of land to explore, with a swimming pool, terraces, and a barbecue area for al fresco dining. The castle backs on to the vineyards of Bergerac, so you're never too far from a glass of locally produced wine. Should the weather turn, the games room with a billiards table and library with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves provide quality indoor entertainment.

Old World Meets New

In the heart of the Limousin-Perigord National Park, this home exudes all the rustic charm of an old farmhouse. The building dates back to the 17th century, evident in its honey-brown stone facade and white-wash shutters. The lush garden is home to towering, ancient trees, offering plenty of privacy, especially if you want to spend day lounging by the poolside in the sun. There’s a hammock for a quiet siesta and dining beneath the wrought-iron gazebo. From here, the only soundtrack to your holiday is the cheep of blue and great tits. Pathways lead across the seven acres of grounds to hidden benches and shaded spots between the trees – you may even spot the resident green woodpecker nesting in the sweet chestnut tree. 

Inside, it’s a picture of lavish yet rustic charm, with a wood-burning stove in the master bedroom for chilly evenings, original fireplaces and a big farmhouse-style table at the centre of the kitchen. This home has been lovingly restored, with the old features like wood beams and terracotta floors still on display. In the grand living room, you’ll find an antique dresser stacked with books and a fireplace for cosy evenings in. While the kitchen is vast and boasts a pretty stove in the old hearth. 

You could spend all your days spotting wildlife and lounging by the pool. But if you do fancy a day trip, Limoges is a forty-five-minute drive and the pretty medieval town of Périgueux is a fifty-minute drive in the other direction. 

Woodpeckers in the Trees

Streaming Services

Breakfast Included

When your mind wanders to sunnier climes, daydreaming about an escape to France, this is the kind of place you’ll find yourself imagining. This stunning villa has it all – a picturesque stone facade, rolling countryside views, and every comfort and luxury you could hope for. 

It’s in the heart of the Perigord countryside, with plenty to discover along the Dordogne. A day trip to the famous medieval town of Sarlat-la-Canéda is a must, with its gorgeous architecture and incredible food markets. Rent bikes from your host and explore the rich and verdant countryside surrounding the villa, taking picnics of local cheese and fresh bread to enjoy along the way. 

Of course, you may find that you’re entirely content to stay put most of the time – there’s enough to enjoy at the villa, after all. Wake up early and enjoy a quiet moment in the garden, sipping your coffee as the early-morning sun warms you. After a breakfast of fresh fruit and pastries, lie in the sun beside the pool, occasionally dipping a toe in to test the temperature. Swim beneath a cloudless blue sky, and play with the little ones on the lawn. This is an idyllic home, where rest and relaxation are the focus. 

In the evening, sip cocktails on the terrace as the sun begins to set. Let a private chef do the hard work in the kitchen, and settle in for a fabulous alfresco feast. Is there anything better than dining under the stars on a warm summer’s night?  


Stone Amid Hills

La Belle Vie has been around for well over a hundred years. No fakes, no approximations, just old-style charm and the kind of luxury only the nineteenth-century French nobles could conjure up. Mostly furnished with antiques in various states of refurbishment, this chateau is a walk through the history of comfort — perfect for a large family gathering with older children, or a luxurious base to explore the  the world-famous vineyards of the Aquitaine region. Some off you will start your days with a brisk walk around the estate, and some with a proper morning swim in the private pool. There are plenty of spots to socialise both indoors and outdoors, so reconnecting will be easy even when you're not gathering for one of your fancy meals. And if you're travelling with discerning guests, the host is more than happy to organise a variety of extra services that will turn your stay into a proper five-stay experience. Think private chefs, maid service, babysitting, fridge filling, and more. 

La Belle Vie

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