Les Portes de Ste Marie

Sarlat is a joyful mix of honey-coloured buildings, hidden squares and alleyways to get lost in. Thrumming with visitors and action in the summer months, it is home to some of the region’s best preserved medieval architecture. You stay in an apartment within an elegant townhouse on the central square.

On market days (Wednesday and Saturday)it’s tempting to fling open the big windows and let the sounds and smells of local life waft in. Pick up local Perigord delicacies: strawberries, walnuts, foie gras, truffles. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to eating out; follow the locals to the busiest restaurants and you won’t go too far wrong.

Both apartments have been cleverly created, the smaller is tucked at the back with a dinky bedroom, shower room and kitchen. The bigger apartment has light and airy open-plan living with two en suite bedrooms and a good-sized kitchen to cook all the treats you pick up at the market.