Simply Périgord, the South-west France holiday rental specialist, continues to snap up the best of the region’s holiday homes with the addition of eight gorgeous properties to the collection for 2018 and introduces a range of new foodie experiences. Now featuring over 60 affordable self-catering options across the historic Dordogne region and beyond, there’s something for families and groups of all shapes and sizes: choose from imposing châteaux, traditional farmhouses, rambling chartreuses, cosy cottages, grand townhouses and magnificent manoirs, sleeping between 2 and 22, all in beautiful settings. New to the portfolio is a sprawling property set in a private countryside setting near St Chamassy, a smart townhouse on the banks of the River Vézère, a newly-renovated farmhouse with separate gite, and a charming stone cottage in the tiny village of St Marcel du Périgord.
Well-known for its foie gras, cheeses, truffles and Côtes-de-Bergerac wines, gastronomy is a highlight of any trip to the Dordogne, which is why Simply Périgord is introducing a collection of epicurean experiences for 2018. Guests will be able to choose from behind-the-scenes trips to a snail farm, a honey producer, a wild boar farm, as well as vineyard visits, wine tasting and Armagnac sampling in neighbouring Gascony. With Simply Périgord being based in the heart of the Dordogne in Le Bugue, any additional requests can be arranged too, from restaurant reservations to hiring a chef for the day.
Widely regarded as France in a nutshell, the Dordogne is renowned for its stunning chateaux-dotted landscapes, prehistoric caves and beautiful villages. There is much to see and do across these ancient lands, whether just soaking up the relaxed French country life, getting active with a spot of golf, kayaking, horse riding, hiking or cycling or taking in the cultural sites.
Les Combettes, facility-filled private retreat: Following an extensive refurbishment, this attractive stone property, located between the Dordogne villages of Audrix and St Chamassy, is offered for the first time to the rental market for 2018. Set in 3.5 hectares in a totally private location, this is an ideal haven for those seeking some p&q. The ensemble sleeps up to 10 guests with four large bedrooms in the main house and another in the guest annexe which also has a kitchen, sitting area and en-suite – perfect for teenagers or grandparents seeking their own space. Outside soak up the countryside views; relax by the swimming pool with its large sunbathing terrace and pool house (equipped with a summer kitchen and dining area); challenge others to a game of tennis; or unwind in the outdoor Jacuzzi. Price: one week’s rental costs from €1,880 (or €188pp based on 10 sharing).
Cute cottage for four, Le Perrel: Situated in the tiny village of St Marcel du Périgord, with its popular local restaurant, this charming cottage enjoys a scenic location with its far-reaching vista across the open countryside. Boasting old-style terracotta flooring and exposed stonework and beams, it still maintains the character of the traditional Périgourdine honey-coloured stone properties this region is famous for, but with contemporary touches throughout. The two double bedrooms make this a great base for a small family, or two couples holidaying together. Spend the days soaking up the picture-perfect views, bathe by the swimming pool, appreciate the quietness of the private setting or enjoy a game of table tennis. Price: one week’s rental costs from €970 (or €243pp based on four sharing).
Tranquil and bucolic Le Tabac: This immaculate, old stone property with pool overlooking idyllic countryside has recently been renovated and now offers gorgeous accommodation for up to eight guests. Expect terracotta floor tiles, limed beams, open fireplaces and a pigeonnier tower study, as well as four double bedrooms, each with their own bathroom. Outside, the landscaped gardens house a large swimming pool, pretty summer house and summer kitchen, while the covered terrace is the perfect spot to read, snooze or dine in the shade. Set at the end of a tiny hamlet of pretty honey-coloured stone houses, and situated close to the market town of Le Bugue, there is no passing traffic, offering a very tranquil setting yet within easy reach of the region‘s main attractions. Price: one week’s rental costs from €1,900 (or €238pp based on eight sharing).
Townhouse with river views, Chez Thérèse: Set on the banks of the Vézère river in the old market town of Le Bugue, this fine townhouse has been completely restored, retaining many original features but incorporating modern comforts too. With two generous double bedrooms enjoying views over the river, this pied-à-terre is ideal for one or two couples who want to be within the heart of a bustling town and within walking distance of all the amenities. Le Bugue’s busy market takes place every Tuesday morning, with a smaller market on Saturdays, while there is also a good choice of shops and restaurants as well as an outdoor public swimming pool. Guests can while away the hours sitting on the front terrace overlooking the river watching the world go by. Price: one week’s rental costs from €460 (or €115pp based on four sharing).
Swimming, tennis and privacy at Les Volets Bleu: This striking stone house has recently received a wow factor restoration – with a new swimming pool, a resurfaced flood-lit tennis court and a newly-installed kitchen. Sleeping up to nine guests in the main house (7) and separate annexe (2), this stunning residence enjoys a very private and picturesque setting. Exposed beams, comfortable sofas and spacious bedrooms make up the interior, but it’s outside where guests will spend most of their time, taking in the panorama, relaxing by the pool, exploring the expansive grounds, enjoying a game of tennis and dining alfresco. Located on the outskirts of the bustling market town of Le Bugue, in the heart of the Dordogne, this property is within a stone’s throw of all amenities and the many sites this wonderful region has to offer. Price: one week’s rental costs from €2,315 (or €257pp based on nine sharing).
Prices: Look out for under-occupancy rates and shoulder season bargains with low season dates stretching into May and September: low season (31 March-26 May / 29 Sept-20 Oct), mid-season (26 May-14 July / 1-29 Sept) and high season (14 July-1 Sept).
