Set in a little hamlet so close to the edge of the Dordogne river, Manoir La Grande is a beautiful and opulent home with stunning original features, gorgeous gardens, river views and a glorious swimming pool, just a short cycle from a bastide town hosting one of the best markets in the region.

Perfectly positioned for visiting Bergerac, Saint-Émilion and Bordeaux, this fine holiday home is wonderful whether you wish to sample some of southern France’s excellent wines or just spend quality time with family and friends. Dating back to the 18th century, there are so many original features to admire from exposed stone walls and high beamed ceilings to elegant marble floors. Relax in one of the two salons, furnished seamlessly with a blend of old and new, or feast with loved ones by the open fire in the handsome dining room with its antique grandfather clock.

Yet since the manoir’s recent renovation, so many contemporary touches have been added too. The kitchen has been completely re-fitted including new appliances whilst all the bedrooms upstairs feature warm wool carpets, Bluetooth speakers and new en suite bath or shower rooms. All six beautiful bedrooms are restful with calming countryside views, especially the top floor suite with its super king-size double, teak platform with a free-standing bath, spacious en suite shower room and separate lounge with a Smart TV, kettle, mini-fridge and views of the river.   

The two acres of mature grounds are so delightful with a garden terrace surrounded by wildflowers looking down to the Dordogne as well as ancient trees and ample fruit dotted amongst the lawns – there are peaches, plums, figs, walnuts, apples and pears to pick throughout the summer. Have breakfast on a pretty terrace, perhaps enjoying fresh eggs from the friendly chickens and gather for al-fresco meals by the barbecue or outdoor bar. Families will especially love the games room, boules, the trampoline and a football goal.

In an area of woodland, vineyards and of course the river, hop on the manoir’s bikes and head to the local village, only 2km away, with its grocery store and café-bar. In the other direction, following the river road, cycle or drive to Sainte-Foy-la-Grande, a picture-perfect bastide town on the Dordogne with medieval lanes, inviting restaurants and a bustling Saturday morning market, said to be one of the biggest and best in the region.

There are great walking, hiking and cycling routes straight from your home or venture out along the river by hiring canoes and kayaks. Further afield, explore historic villages such as Issigeac, Monpazier and Eymet, seek out fairytale châteaux, come across wonderful wineries and idyllic vineyards or discover the many superb restaurants serving authentic fare from this magnificent part of France. 

Just metres from the Dordogne river, perfectly positioned between Bergerac and Bordeaux, Manoir La Grande is part of a small hamlet in a delightful location for exploring this spectacular region.

Only a road separates the manoir’s mature grounds from the river – there is a pretty garden terrace within the estate, surrounded by wildflowers, where you can gaze down to the Dordogne and watch swans as well as the odd fishing boat or kayaker glide by.

There are local villages and towns within a short drive or bike ride away – the nearest can be reached within 2km and is home to a small supermarket and café-bar. If staying over the 14th July, the local village has one of the most spectacular firework displays for Bastille Day – watch from the bridge crossing over the Dordogne.

In the other direction are Port-Sainte-Foy and Sainte-Foy-la-Grande, just over 4km by car or bike, where you will find a number of restaurants, large supermarkets and a wide range of amenities. The bastide town of Sainte-Foy-la-Grande, on the banks of the Dordogne, is especially loved for its amazing Saturday morning market, one of the best and biggest in the region. Explore the town’s medieval lanes, admire the historic timbered houses and come across pretty squares. The weekly Marché Nocturne on summer evenings in July and August is another joy to experience. Near Sainte-Foy-la-Grande you will also find canoeing and kayaking opportunities along the Dordogne.

Other idyllic villages to visit include charming Issigeac (40km), home to a wonderful Sunday morning market (look out for the night market in July and August too), historic Eymet (33km) and 13th century Monpazier (66km), one of France’s classified ‘Plus Beaux Villages’. Heading south, cross the border into the Lot et Garonne for yet more beautiful scenery and picture-perfect villages such as Duras (28km), not far from the tranquil banks of the Dropt river.

Of course, Bergerac is also within easy reach, under half an hour by car, a delightful place to spend time. Enjoy boat trips on the Dordogne, explore the town’s cobbled lanes and stop off for a leisurely lunch on a characterful café terrace. Learn about Bergerac’s wine heritage at the Maison des Vins or head out and about to visit vineyards scattered around the surrounding countryside, including Château de Monbazillac, famed for its sweet wines.

Heading west, the enchanting wine town of Saint-Émilion is a must-visit, after all its vineyards are listed as a unesco World Heritage site. Then there’s the grand city of Bordeaux (70km), with its impressive architecture, vibrant restaurant scene, mighty Garonne river and world-famous wines.

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