The Barn at Les Chouettes

The barn sits on the outskirts of the village next door to the owner’s other holiday cottage – each have their own private entrance, but if you’re a larger group you can take both. It’s newly restored, open and airy with high beamed ceilings, big bedrooms and an open-plan kitchen/living room at its centre. Sit and chat with a gin and tonic on the outdoor covered area or have al fresco meals on the terrace round the corner. Children will love the plunge pool which overlooks a walnut orchard. The village is beautiful, there are Michelin starred restaurants nearby, including Le Vieux Logis and a quirky hillside eatery called Les Truffiers. A 30-minute stroll will take you to the river beach where you can canoe, water ski or rent a pedalo. Explore the wonderful cave at Lascaux or visit many good markets – Le Bugue, Bergerac (home of Cyrano) and Périgueux – but Sarlat on a Saturday is best of all. The welcome basket in the well-equipped kitchen includes a bottle of local wine to sip under the stars in peace.