This impressive stone house is tucked down a quiet lane just outside a pretty town, and although it feels peaceful and grown-up, Falko and Sandrine have young children so will welcome yours warmly.
A separate guest entrance leads into a hallway and up the staircase to the elegant rooms – there’s also a ground floor double with a private terrace. Dining here is a treat: Sandrine makes delicious patisseries, including home-made croissants for breakfast, and Falko is passionate about fresh produce and often organises wine tastings showcasing local oysters. Typically French dinners such as melon and cured ham, magret de canard and crumble aux figues are offered on weeknights, or walk 10 minutes into town to a bistro.
Borrow bikes and explore pathways around the house and town, or sit in the lovely garden and gaze out at the river with an aperitif from the bar. Historic Aubeterre-sur-Dronne is 20 minutes away, Bordeaux 45 minutes and the wine lover’s paradise, St Emilion, is 45 minutes.
I loved Sandrine and Falko - their energy and passion for new projects is adorable with the young family they have in tow. He is full of pride about how far they have come. In the space of 6 months they knocked out walls and ceilings and turned a very drab property into something very lovely indeed. Great sized rooms in elegant colours and plenty of space outdoors for kids and adults alike.