This well converted 18th-century pépiniériste’s (plantsman’s) house sits in a small hamlet with impressive views over the Dordogne river. A blend of traditional and contemporary furniture creates a relaxed feel; big sofas are opposite an open fireplace, the painted wooden table is perfect for family meals, the kitchen is modern and you’ll find books, DVDs and games. Compact bedrooms have white walls, squashy mattresses and bright paintings; functional shower rooms have lovely Cole & Lewis fragrances. The garden is laid to gravel with a trickling water feature; on warm days you can chill out on the rooftop sundeck. Down a tiny lane you’ll find La Petite Shambhala with a gorgeous new pool of its own, a terrace for al fresco dining and a pretty riverside garden from which you can wild swim. The open-plan interiors are fresh and modern, the kitchen is super, bedrooms are big enough and brand new shower rooms are stone tiled. From either space you are spoiled for outdoor activities and wine tastings – there are vineyards galore. Tailor-made residential art courses are now available by acclaimed artist, Eric Bourse. What fun!
