Our pick of 7 gîtes in northern France, perfect for embracing the slow life
Sawday's Expert
5 min read
The magic of a gîte holiday stems from life’s simple pleasures. We slip into life lived at a slower pace: browsing markets for regional cheese, gently rolling down country lanes on two wheels, and breathing in deep lungful's of sea-air on relaxed coastal walks. We've selected 8 gîtes in northern France that are perfect for embracing the slow life, each personally inspected by a Sawday’s expert and offering an unhurried base for living well, eating locally and exploring at your own speed.
Sawday’s France expert Nicky deBouille has helped shape this selection, drawing on years spent exploring northern France and staying with owners who know their patch inside out.
Gîte de la Motte Féodale, Eure
This former hunting lodge sits quietly within two acres of historic countryside, where birdsong and grazing sheep set the pace of the day. Indoors is all space and elegance, with fires to read by and long tables for unhurried meals. When the weather turns, retreat to your private spa with pool and jacuzzi; in summer, life spills out onto the terrace for barbecues and big-sky views. Borrow bikes, walk to nearby villages for bread, or simply stay put and enjoy the deep calm of the setting.
Gîte Le Bost, Dordogne
Deep in the Périgord Blanc countryside, Le Bost delivers exactly what many people imagine when they picture a French gîte: space, privacy and an easy outdoor rhythm. The upside-down layout makes the most of garden views, while the pool, pétanque court and generous grounds encourage long, unstructured days. It’s especially good for families, with a play barn for wetter weather and plenty of room for children to roam safely. Cycling and walking routes thread through nearby forest, local markets are easy to reach and the owners provide thoughtful recommendations without ever intruding.
Rural Gîtes – Chadenne, Dordogne
These three converted barn gîtes sit in a rural pocket of the Dordogne where night skies remain properly dark and original beams, stone walls and contemporary comforts strike a pleasing balance between rustic character and ease. Each gîte has its own outdoor space while the shared saltwater pool becomes a relaxed social focal point. Days naturally fill with forest walks, market visits, bike rides to the bakery or simply reading by the pool. Sustainability runs quietly through the place too, from solar heating to low-impact housekeeping, reinforcing that sense of thoughtful, slower living.
Domaine de Pragelier, Tourtoirac, Dordogne
Set within expansive gardens, these two elegant gîtes offer a calm base for exploring one of France’s most food rich and historically layered regions. Interiors lean country chic, filled with carefully sourced antiques that give warmth without fuss. Large outdoor spaces invite lazy afternoons, whether lounging beside the pool, under shady trees or on terraces designed for long lunches. Local markets, rivers for canoeing and excellent regional restaurants all sit within easy reach. Yet many guests find the real pleasure lies in staying put and allowing the atmosphere of the Dordogne countryside to dictate the pace.
Gîtes Boutique, Villamblard, Dordogne
Occupying a hilltop site with medieval roots, these three gîtes combine classic Dordogne character with a sociable, lowkey atmosphere. Lavender filled courtyards, big rural views and a shared barn for communal meals create an easy balance between privacy and togetherness, particularly appealing for families or friends travelling side by side. The surrounding region is wonderfully varied with vineyards, markets, caves, castles and gentle cycling routes all close enough for day trips. Back at base, the pool, hot tub and generous terraces encourage a slower tempo, where dinners stretch comfortably into evening and plans rarely feel urgent.
La Cassine, Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei, Sarthe
Set within one of France’s prettiest riverside villages, La Cassine captures the quieter charm often associated with northern gîte stays. The house sits just steps from a medieval bridge, surrounded by artists’ studios, walking paths and a landscape that feels almost storybook in its calm. Inside, it’s warm and practical, with fires for cooler months and a sunny garden with pool for summer stays. Days revolve around village bakeries, riverside strolls and exploring nearby historic towns rather than ticking off attractions. It’s an easy, restorative base that reminds you how satisfying simple routines can be.
La Grange d’Isidore, Côtes-d’Armor
This modern barn conversion on an organic farm is made for slow, food-led stays. Days begin with a breakfast basket, herbs picked from the garden and children collecting eggs, and end with barbecues and sundowners by the glasshouse. There’s space to spread out, play and relax, with beaches a short drive away if you fancy a change of scene. Owners Liz and Corentin’s love of good food runs through everything, making this an easy, nourishing place to settle in and stay put.
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Nicky deBouille
Sawday's Expert
Nicky has gone from roots in the mountains of New Zealand to her home in an 18th century merchant’s house on the banks of the Loire. Armed with an eccentric soundtrack from Bach to Radiohead via Beirut and Herbie Hancock, she goes on the road for weeks at a time, in search of new special places. What matters most to her is connecting with the owner, because it’s the person that creates the place. She loves that she can give them an alternative to booking.com, and they love the fact that she’s “gone native”.
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