On the outskirts of the village, the cottage appears modest alongside the just-renovated barn – Simon will meet you and show you around. The cottage has a biggish pool, three outside seating areas and a ping-pong table. The Barn has its own entrance, an outdoor seating area, a plunge pool and views over the walnut orchard. It’s a great place for a family holiday and works well for couples travelling together, or may be rented as one. There are free bikes available at the cottage with wonderful rides in the surrounding countryside; a 20-minute stroll away is the pretty river beach where you can canoe, water ski or rent a pedalo. In the cottage find a big welcoming sitting room and a kitchen that seats eight. Up steep stairs (watch toddlers) is the large master bedroom with air-conditioning and a smaller double; downstairs are two smallish doubles. The Barn is lofty, open and airy, with quirky lights, big stylish bedrooms and a sitting room tagged on the back. In summer you’ll be lingering under the stars. Don’t miss Bergerac, home of Cyrano, filled with fountains and half-timbered buildings, and famous for truffles and wines.
