La Ferme Buissonnière B&B

A comfortable, homely escape where you can do your own thing or mingle with other guests. Ann, Bob and ancient collie dog Dilma welcome you with a drink and nibbles. Your spotless room (one of three) opens onto a shared terrace that weaves down to the saltwater pool with loungers and a fragrant garden with lots of quiet spaces to sit and enjoy the peace. You’re in a tiny hamlet and the only sounds are birds and, thrice a day, church bells.

On warm days, eat Ann’s delicious breakfast including eggs from her happy hens, fresh fruit, homemade yogurt, local pastries, honey, cheese and ham on the shaded summer terrace gazing over the lavender-fringed lawn. You might spend your afternoon cycling into pretty Issigeac (5km) for lunch or a game of tennis, visiting vineyards or hiking the Dordogne – there are well-marked paths from the door.

Return for a cuppa in your sitting room with an honesty bar, where there’s also a glowing fire, TV, books, games and sofas.