Le Mas De Besse

About this property

Set amid 15 acres of secluded Dordogne countryside, Le Mas de Besse offers a sublime retreat where privacy, character and thoughtful design come together in perfect harmony. Arriving at the end of a country lane, guests are greeted by a timeless estate with roots reaching back to 1680, where mature palms, expansive lawns and golden stone buildings surround a tranquil courtyard at its heart.

Here you will stay in two exceptional dwellings within the estate: The Barn and The Goat House, both restored with an eye for detail. Featuring two en suite bedrooms, The Barn’s soaring ceilings and split-level design create a sense of space and elegance across the main living space, while timber beams and hand-picked finishes retain its rustic soul. French doors spill onto the courtyard and its dining terrace for long meals on warm summer evenings. In the Goat House, sloping ceilings and soft light add charm to a separate twin bedroom.

Outside, drift between the private heated pool and the sun loungers, enjoy leisurely lunches by the poolside summer kitchen, or sip a chilled glass of wine as the scent of the barbecue fills the air back by the courtyard.

Just 7km away lies Villefranche-du-Périgord, a bastide town steeped in medieval charm. Cobbled streets, an arcaded market hall and the soft chime of church bells bring a rhythm to daily life. Visit the Chestnut and Mushroom Museum, savour local delicacies from weekly markets, or take to forest trails that wind through the Périgord Noir. For wonderful days out, the striking Château de Bonaguil and the gastronomic delights of Sarlat-la-Canéda await, along with the vineyards and historic centre of Cahors by the Lot River.

Whether gathering for summer feasts or escaping for peaceful reflection, Le Mas de Besse is a place where every detail invites you to slow down and savour this beautiful part of southwestern France.

Tucked away at the end of a country lane just 7km from the enchanting bastide town of Villefranche-du-Périgord, this historic retreat places in one of France’s most picturesque regions in the Dordogne department, not far from the Lot and Lot-et-Garonne borders. There is a restaurant in a small village/hamlet just over a 5-minute drive away.

Villefranche itself, founded in the mid-13th century, still radiates medieval charm through its cobbled streets, arcaded market square and striking Gothic church of Saint-Etienne. On Saturday morning, the 14th-century covered hall comes alive with stalls brimming with local produce – especially the chestnuts, ceps and mushrooms for which the area is famed. The Chestnut and Mushroom Museum offers a delightful glimpse into these regional treasures.

The surrounding countryside is a haven for nature lovers and walkers with well-marked trails meandering through ancient woodland and pastoral hills. The nearby Dordogne and Lot valleys, dotted with glorious landscapes, slow-moving rivers and historic bastide towns including Monpazier, Monflanquin, and Belvès, each offering markets, heritage and timeless rural beauty.

For unforgettable river views, head to Siorac-en-Périgord for canoeing along the Dordogne River or explore the clifftop village of Domme and the enchanting riverside La Roque-Gageac. This part of the Dordogne is rich in grand châteaux and garden estates, where history meets elegance in spectacular settings.

Sarlat-la-Canéda, only 45 minutes away, rewards day-trippers with its golden-stone architecture, bustling squares and gourmet dining. Further south, in under an hour, discover riverside charm of Puy-l’Évêque by the Lot River and the historic wine capital of Cahors, perfect for leisurely wine tastings amid Malbec-producing vineyards.

Accommodation

The Barn Interiors

Ground Floor (split-level)

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Open-plan living room with double height ceiling, wood-burning stove, sofas and Wi-Fi. Doors open to courtyard and dining terrace
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Open-plan kitchen and dining area (on lower split level), well-equipped including microwave, oven and hob, dishwasher, fridge freezer and dining table. Doors open to courtyard terrace
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Bedroom 1 with two single beds and open en suite bathroom with shower, sink and WC

First Floor (via open-tread stairs)

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Bedroom 2 with double bed, sloping beamed ceiling and open en suite bathroom with shower, sink and WC

The Goat House Interiors (with sloping ceiling)

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Bedroom 3 with two single beds and en suite bathroom with bath/shower, sink and WC

Outside Grounds

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Heated swimming pool (10x5m)
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Poolside terrace with sun loungers
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Poolside summer kitchen with al-fresco dining area, hob, fridge, sink and dartboard. Shower and WC
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Central courtyard with covered dining terrace, barbecue, drinks fridge and sofa
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Shaded dining and open seating area
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Smaller dining terrace (outside the barn)
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Utility room (washing machine and dryer)
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Some steps and different levels across the grounds
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Private grounds (15 acres) with large lawn, mature trees, plants and palm trees

Please note the main 2-bedroom House and 1-bedroom Garden House on the estate remain unoccupied. If you would like to book these as well (for an additional six guests), please see Le Mas Combolongue.