In the lovely Lot, encircled by Bastide towns, are three ancient farm buildings of mellow caramel stone. Elegant Fiona bought this run down hilltop farm and has transformed the whole place into a calming haven: the guest houses are smart, light-filled spaces; there’s an expanse of lawned garden, an inviting pool swaddled by swathes of lavender and a barn for yoga and music retreats. When Fiona’s not in London she lives in the big house and is on hand to make sure everything runs with aplomb. Each cottage has a large open-plan kitchen/dining/living area downstairs while bedrooms and bathrooms are up. The décor is simple with white or exposed stone walls, neutral coloured sofas and armchairs jazzed up with pretty cushions; the tiled kitchens are super functional and perfectly equipped. Bedrooms are calming with rolling country views and the en suite bathrooms are immaculate. This is a great spot for groups as each house has its own courtyard. Explore local towns and castles, canoe the Dordogne, go wine tasting; or stay put by the pool for some serious R&R.
We stayed in La Balie for 3 days during one of those long May French week end with a group a friends, including adults and teenagers. We rented 3 cottages so we had enough intimacy and space for each and we could share collective moments thanks to the the huge outside table and the wonderful swimming pool! The cottage and the garden are just amazing : tasteful decoration and design, well equiped, immaculate... Fiona has been available before and during our stay if required. The surrondings are lovely and full of charming villages, markets and castles...