Category Archives: Dordogne

Barn and Recreation, The Reveal is Finally Here!

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Mind and Body workouts in the Barn

The wait is over. The story we’ve been talking about for a while now — the one you’ve been curious about — is finally ready to share.


Welcome to Barn and Recreation, the brand-new heart of fun, fitness, and creativity at La Maison Louverie.


We’ve turned the old tobacco barn into a sporty, creative studio where you can be artsy, get your creativity flowing, and let off some steam.
If you’re competitive, this space is right up your alley. We’ve got a sporty corner with a home trainer, rowing machine, weights, yoga mats, and an exercise ball. So if you need a warm-up — or a cool-down — after your run, forest hike, or trail running, this is your spot.


Want to be creative? Maybe you’re finally finding the time on your holiday? Then you’ll love the large table waiting for you, equipped with tools to help you accomplish that masterpiece. It’s also great for a game of chess (very strategic, very quiet… until someone starts gloating).


With the barn doors open to the west, you get a fresh breeze and a beautiful view. Yes, we’re biased. But you’re welcome to judge for yourself.
Family and friends fun starts with a competitive game of ping-pong, rain or shine. We’ve also got a small Foosball table that doubles as a pool table or ice hockey table (sorry, no cold air included in this model). And for fans of darts — yes, we’ve got that too.


Don’t Panic: The Barn’s Supposed to Look Like This


Don’t be spooked by the state the barn is in. These barns, very well known in the area, are meant to breathe.
Until the European Union stopped subsidies for the tobacco industry about 16 years ago (between 2006 and 2010), farming tobacco was one of the major trades in the southwest of France. The big, beautiful plants had massive leaves that had to dry in an area where the wind could rustle through them, so they didn’t get moist and mouldy.
That’s exactly why the wooden planks aren’t airtight — the barn was designed to let the air flow.


Bienvenue à la Nouvelle Grange!


We’ve brought back some lovely seats and benches in the garden and beyond, so there’s even more space to relax, create, and enjoy the outdoors.


If you’re one of our guests this year or in the future, we really hope you love this addition to La Maison Louverie. We think it’s a winner in making a family and friends holiday even more complete and fun.


Let us know what you think in the comments. More new additions for the property are coming up, so follow us and subscribe.


#MakeGuestsHappy. Bienvenue!

First Day of Spring at La Maison Louverie

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It is the 21st of March, the first day of spring, and everything around La Maison Louverie is waking up. The trees are budding, the birds are getting louder, and the Dordogne light is doing that lovely thing it does when it suddenly makes everything look more hopeful.

Last week, Pontours had a soft spring mix of days and nights: cool mornings, milder afternoons, and that in-between feeling that tells you winter is finally on its way out. It is exactly the kind of weather that makes you want to open the windows, step outside, and start planning where to put the next bench.

A few spring changes behind the scenes

We also had a delivery from Chausson: 7 bags in total, made up of 6 bags of gravel and 1 bag of sand. Three of those bags are already going to work on the driveway, helping to make it smoother and giving Louverie a little extra curb appeal.

And the other three bags? Well, that is part of our still-secret project. We are thinking, planning, adjusting, and prepping as we go, because sometimes good things need a little time before they are ready to be revealed.

New places to sit, pause, and enjoy

Spring also brought us some new additions outdoors:

  • A new bench for the front of the house, perfect for poets, thinkers, writers, and of course butterfly and bee enthusiasts.
  • A bench under the old oak tree in the field, reached by following the path from the end of the garden and walking over the broad mowed lane. It is the kind of place where you sit down, look out, and suddenly decide the sunset deserves your full attention.
  • Hammocks, new seats, chairs, and a table, all helping to create more idyllic corners around the property.

For the best version of that oak tree bench? Take a glass of local wine with you. Nature and a good Dordogne bottle tend to get along very well.

The pool area is having a makeover

We are also changing the pool area, although this one asks for a little patience. There is hacking away, fencing out, rearranging, and a little battle with the cement mixer going on behind the scenes. But slowly, this corner is becoming exactly what we want it to be: a small, beautiful space in the best sunlight.

Sometimes a project looks a bit messy while it is happening. That is normal. A little patience is a virtue — especially for us.

Dates still available

If you are thinking about a spring or autumn stay, here are the dates still open:

  • 18 to 27 April
  • 10 to 14 May
  • 17 to 24 May
  • 20 to 24 June
  • From 19 September onwards

The really lovely months for booking are September and October, and if you are coming with 2, 4, or 6 guests, just inquire for an adjusted price for the spring and autumn season. http://www.lamaisonlouverie.com/cal

Why we love this time of year

Spring at La Maison Louverie is not only about new flowers and longer days. It is also about making the place more welcoming, more comfortable, and more beautiful, one little project at a time. We may not reveal everything at once, but we do promise this: there is more coming next week, including a special reveal.

So stay tuned, follow the blog, and keep an eye on this little corner of the Dordogne.

Spring Awakening at La Maison Louverie: Behind the Scenes

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Saturday, March 7, 2026 @ 10:30 CET

Like Périgord bears waking from winter sleep, we at La Maison Louverie have emerged after weeks of biting cold and frost. Then came storms Nils and Pedro — read our full story here. Suddenly, our first spring burst forth: yellow butterflies dancing, magnolias blooming, soft white flowers blossoming. We’re now pruning fruit trees in T-shirts instead of fleece, with March sun hitting 22°C (mostly 16-19°C).

Waking the Grounds

We’re clearing trees toppled by Storm Nils. We are mindfully pruning the orchard before birds nest. Although it means less fruit overall, the remaining fruit grows bigger and stronger. With summer storms, some of which are spectacular with electric thunderstorms. Un-pruned branches grow too long. They bear too much weight and snap under wind gusts building from our lower valley fields. We are always eco-friendly. We skip regional burn practices. Instead, we pile branches into hedges for shade, moisture, and homes for hedgehogs, bunnies, and other wildlife. Keep an eye on our blog for more about our environmental friendliness and sustainability efforts.

House & Gîte Revival

We open the shutters, so the house warms naturally with March sun — and they’re soon to be freshly painted. We clear the gutters and do a full spring-clean. Barns get cleared for the season. We’re adding and refreshing new things inside our 4‑star gîte. The pool area is prepped, and new features are arriving. Gardens are raked, with raspberries budding. Bedrooms are fluffed and almost ready for guests.

Guest Plans & Pride

Super proud to welcome returning and new guests (and of course their furry family members — dogs always welcome!) for their stays. Our biggest compliment? Greeting guests with a royal jester saying “Welcome home” at the door. La Maison Louverie is a home away from home. (8–10 guests and dogs come for free)

We’re working hard to get our new reveal out — finalizing plans and turning ideas into reality. We’re so eager to share what’s been waiting for you. This is for you as a returning guest. It is also for new guests. Additionally, it’s for those who might become our guests soon. However, we need just a few more steps before telling the world (and our booked guests) WHAT AWAITS!

Your Spring Availability

Entire private gîte open:

  • April: Until 27th
  • May: 10th–14th and 18th–24th
  • June: 20th–24th
  • July: 29th June–4th July
  • Autumn Bliss: After 19th September through October (our most beautiful months!)

Stay Updated: Subscribe to our blog for behind‑the‑scenes, Dordogne discoveries, Bergerac/Périgord news, and La Maison Louverie exclusives. Book direct via this link: lamaisonlouverie.com/cal

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Wine tasting at “La Maison Louverie” with Dordogne Vineyard Tours

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Last weekend we had the pleasure of welcoming Dordogne Vineyard Tours to “Louverie” for a private wine tasting here in the heart of the Dordogne. Our guests enjoyed a relaxed Bergerac wine tasting at their holiday home, discovering a range of Bergerac, Dordogne wines, different grape varieties and lots of information about the process of making wine.

We were completely surprised and absolutely in love with the local Bergerac bubbles – a cuvée Signature, demi-sec from Château La Tilleraie – a delicious, elegant alternative to Champagne, even if it cannot officially carry the Champagne name because we are outside that region. Personally, we were also in awe of Château Court Les Muts, a dry white we might never have chosen ourselves because of its more “old‑fashioned” label. Yet again, we were happily surprised by the perfect blend: dry, with a delicate aftertaste and a citrus mélange that lingered beautifully.

This tasting really showed how important it is to have inside information and a knowledgeable guide. A wine you might walk past on the shelf suddenly becomes a favorite, and it is especially nice for our guests to have a wine tasting at the beginning of their holiday so they know exactly what to look for during the rest of their stay.

We also tasted a fresh and modern white, Prémices from Domaine de Combet, with a label and style that immediately speaks to the eye and mind in summer – bright, approachable and perfect for sunny days by the pool at “Louverie”. For the reds, we discovered a young and very light Baouillet from “Bergecrac”, (no, no spelling mistake) with lovely blackcurrant notes, and an absolute winner from Château Terre Vieille in the Pécharmant, a 2018 with depth, structure and a long, satisfying finish.

The tasting took place around the table at “Louverie”, accompanied by a generous cheese platter from local fromagerie Chez Pauline & Co, with plenty of time to ask questions, compare favorites and enjoy an easy-going evening together without leaving the house.
NB: Dordogne Vineyard Tours does not sell wine – they simply share their expertise to help you discover and love these local gems.

It was a wonderful way to experience Bergerac wines, support local vineyards and add a special memory to a holiday in the Bergerac wine region.

If you’re staying at “Louverie” and would like to add a Bergerac wine tasting at your holiday home in the Dordogne, let us know and we’ll be happy to help you arrange it with Dordogne Vineyard Tours.

Last Chance for Spring Family Escape Discount

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SPRINGBIRDS DISCOUNT ENDS

Valentine’s Day lovers, this one’s for you: Book a romantic family escape (or friend reunion) at La Maison Louverie with our SPRINGBIRDS code and save 15% (€375 off the €2500 weekly rate) for April/May weeks. Only 5 days left—deadline hits February 14! Picture swapping chocolates for wisteria blooms, woodburner dinners, and forest walks instead of crowded summer.

Romance Meets Family Adventure in Périgord

Spring paints our 4-hectare gîte magical: south terrace wisteria frames poolside aperitifs, lavender drifts from the fenced garden where kids (and dogs) chase deer shadows. April/May means mild days for canoeing empty Dordogne stretches, brocante treasure hunts, and bastide lunches minus queues. Our 4-star retreat sleeps 10 with king 4-posters, cool attic AC, ping-pong battles, and that massive dining table for shared feasts—perfect post-Valentine’s reset.

Last Chance Deal Details

  • Discount: 15% off (€2500 → €2125/week)
  • Stays: Full weeks April or May 2026
  • Code: SPRINGBIRDS (enter at booking)
  • Deadline: February 14—only 5 days from today
  • Why Now: Limited spring weeks, fills fast with early birds

Don’t let your perfect spring slip—apply SPRINGBIRDS before Valentine’s and lock in Périgord paradise!

BOOK NOW
SHARING IS CARING
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    Pet-friendly, forest-edged tranquility awaits.

    Publish Setup: Jan 9, 10AM. Featured image: terrace at sunset or couple by pool. Rank Math keyword: “Dordogne spring gîte discount Valentine’s.” Links back to today’s post. Share on social 9th/10th. Ready to paste!

    Spring in the dordogne

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    Are you dreaming of a dog-friendly holiday home in France with a private heated pool for a peaceful spring break? At La Maison Louverie in the Dordogne, in the sunny South West of France, you can enjoy style, privacy, and space – and a special 15% discount on the weekly rate of 2,500 € in April and May if you book before 14 February 2026.

    Our 4‑star country house is a stylish,h family‑friendly gîte with 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and a large, fully fenced garden for children and dogs. The heated in‑ground pool is set in complete privacy, surrounded by cherry trees and orchard views, so you can swim and relax without being overlooked. Inside, you’ll find a cosy playroom, fast fibre Wi‑Fi and all the comfort you need for a spring escape.

    Spring in the Dordogne is one of the best-kept secrets in the South West of France. The valleys around Bergerac are full of blossom, the weather is mild enough for riverside walks, and local brocante and vide‑grenier markets in Lalinde, Le Buisson, Trémolat, and Beaumont‑du‑Périgord are in full swing. It’s the perfect season if you love exploring villages, tasting local food, and coming home to your own quiet, stylish holiday home with a pool.

    La Maison Louverie is truly dog-friendly: dogs are welcome in the house, the garden is fenced, and there are walking routes straight from the door. After a day out in the Dordogne, you can come back for a swim in the heated pool, a barbecue under the trees, or a relaxing evening in the living room.

    SPECIAL DISCOUNT USE SPRINGBIRDS AS YOUR DISCOUNT CODE in the booking form

    If you’re planning a spring holiday in France with a pool, this is a great moment to book. We’re offering 15% off the weekly rate of 2,500 € for all stays in April and May, when you book before 14 February. Secure your dates now and enjoy a stylish, private, dog-friendly holiday home in the Dordogne this spring. (*pool heating for a surcharge of € 20 a day)

    #GiteDordogne #DogFriendlyGite #PrintempsEnDordogne #BrocanteDordogne #PerigordPourpre #BergeracAirport

    Unesco sites in the Dordogne

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    When I still was a traveler and roamed the planet freely, unburdened, and curious, I lived by the backpackers ‘bible’ the Lonely Planet. The funny thing is, when you travel by yourself you might be many things but not one of them is lonely, but that aside. I was the kind of traveler who knew beforehand what was there to see and what places to visit. The UNESCO (World Heritage list) sites were highlighted in my book and high on my list because even when I was traveling like a hobo, my appetite for beauty, architecture, nature, and history never died contrary to my savings in my bank account.

    In fact, when I was about to turn 31, I realized that I had never seen much of that beauty in the world; I spent all my time working, went on vacation once a year to a party island, and sometimes visited my sister overseas. What did I want to see before I died? I made a list of those places in the world. I discovered that they were all UNESCO sites, and that’s when I decided to leave everything behind and wanted to travel. And what was said, was done; I quit the job, sold the house, and strapped on a backpack.

    I came prepared. I was a traveler like that. I did a Vini Vidi Vici at places. A serious traveler I was, quick, no-nonsense, travel with an open mind, spend time in places where there needs to be time, and sleep at night preferably on a bus so transport and accommodation are one. I visited all the continents with my trusted Lonely Planet guide and ‘ticked off’ many boxes.

    On my last big trip, this was going from Ushuaia, Argentina via the South Pole, to South Georgia, Tristan da Cunha, St. Helena (yes, I talk about the place where Napoleon Bonapart was exiled) and more islands, I met a lot of fellow world travelers, people that, mostly had 40 years on me, have seen – so much – of the world. I felt like this was my crowd! There was this one gentleman from Illinois, we call him Donald P. and he was in the top 2 of the most traveled people in the world and with the most visited UNESCO sites on his name. Can you imagine that? A walking Lonely planet with all the intel of the most beautiful places to see in the world. And as an -AI- now, he could tell about all those places including the ones that didn’t survive recent wars.

    I had great admiration for Donald and an even greater admiration for World Heritage sites than before. If only people would travel more, to understand each other better and learn how to respect other cultures. Also knowing that people make so much effort to get their ‘Pet project’ on the world stage of preservation and respect. No matter if it’s a natural phenomenon, a temple, a fortification, or a cave. They need to be protected and nurtured for an understanding of man, and safe keep.

    On that same trip, in that well-traveled crowd, I met the only other person who was in my age group, fell head over heels, and now call him my husband. We moved to the Dordogne a couple of months later. Apparently, I live and love like I travel: quick, no-nonsense, love with an open mind, spend time in places where there needs to be time.

    Setting up our Country Retreat for future guests, we decided to keep the Sundays to ourselves and explore. Not only to tell our guests where to go and what to do but also for ourselves: to appreciate where we landed our lives, the southwest of France is just fascinating and full of Heritage sites.

    Two UNESCO sites are in our backyard (8 km away) and we visit them always when we have friends and family over. It’s the Abbey of Cadouin and the old church of Saint Avit Senieur, both on the Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France. And needless to say; both with such an interesting history.

    And we almost forgot that we just ‘Live’ in a UNESCO site:

    Bassin de la Dordogne | Man and the Biospere Programme (MAB)
    The Dordogne rises on the flanks of Puy de Sancy (1,658 m) in the town of Mont Dore, from the confluence of two small torrents: the DORE and DOGNE. The river traverses a variety of landscapes and functions – mountains, hydropower, large meanders -before flowing into the Gironde at the Ambès beak. The Dordogne is one of the mythical rivers that drain the center of France and provide important ecosystem services to the region.

    We just visited the world-famous Lascaux caves in Montignac. This is a must-see! Unbelievably interesting and only found in the ’40s by a couple of young men who lost their dog. (Un)fortunately, people can no longer visit the original cave as there is the danger of extinguishing what they once created, simply by exhaling CO2. But what they created in the modern International Centre for Parietal Art is ‘real’. There are guided tours in different languages and suitable for all ages. Plus a perfect cool down on hot summer days.

    Another part we visited and less than a 30-minute drive is the Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère Valley a UNESCO World Heritage Site in France since 1979. It specifically lists 15 prehistoric sites in the Vézère Valley mostly in and around Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil, which has been called the “Capital of Prehistory”. This valley is exceptionally rich in prehistoric sites, with more than 150 known sites including 25 decorated caves, and has played an essential role in the study of the Paleolithic era and its art. Three of the sites are the namesakes for prehistoric periods; the Micoquien (named after La Micoque), Mousterian (after Le Moustier), and Magdalenian (after Abri de la Madeleine). Furthermore, the Cro-Magnon rock shelter gave its name to the Cro-Magnon, the generic name for the European early modern humans.

    We still have to go to the Cathedrale of Saint Front in Perigueux. This Saint has a special place in the Dordogne by fighting the water dragon of the Dordogne; Le Coulobre (see previous post) and if we have more time we definitely drive to the beautiful Rocamadour (65 km) to see the Basilique Saint Sauveur and its crypt.

    When we decided we needed to have – a change of scenery -from our holiday-home-base we went to the beautiful wine area of St-Emilion (86 km) which is close to my husband’s and his family’s hearts. Yes, from time to time we also forget that there is more than work in our lives but then we realize, after all these years in the Dordogne we haven’t seen it all and there is still so much to explore; UNESCO sites, some of the ‘most beautiful villages’ of France are in the area, so much history in the old medieval villages (who recently used a lot for filming movies) and let us not forget the pre-history. Maybe we roam the planet a little bit less, but the curiosity of the world is still there. And so easy to reach from our little hamlet that the backpack and the Lonely Planet can be left behind.

    If you like to read more about the Dordogne, click the follow button and automatically you get emails with the latest blogs. If we can help you create a holiday to remember in the Dordogne, in Country Retreat La Maison Louverie, please don’t hesitate to contact us via email or the WhatsApp button on the Home page.

    List of UNESCO sites in the Dordogne

    1. Routes of Santiago de Compostela in FranceEglise Saint-Avit (Saint-Avit-Sénieur)France
    2. Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France Eglise abbatiale Notre-Dame de la Nativité (Le Buisson-de-Cadouin)France
    3. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyRoc de Saint-Cirq (Saint-Cirq)France
    4. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyLa Mouthe (Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil)France
    5. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyFont de Gaume (Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil)France
    6. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyAbri de Cro-Magnon (Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil)France
    7. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyAbri du Poisson (Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil)France
    8. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyLe Grand Roc (Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil)France
    9. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyLaugerie basse (Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil)France
    10. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyLaugerie haute (Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil)France
    11. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyLa Micoque (Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil)France
    12. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyLa Madeleine (Tursac)France
    13. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyLe Moustier (Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère)France
    14. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyCro de Granville (cro de Rouffignac) (Rouffignac-Saint-Cernin-de-Reilhac)France
    15. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyLascaux (Montignac)France
    16. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère Valley
    17. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyLe Cap Blanc (Marquay)France
    18. Prehistoric Sites and Decorated Caves of the Vézère ValleyLes Combarelles (Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil)France
    19. Routes of Santiago de Compostela in FranceCathédrale Saint-Front (Périgueux)France

    List of UNESCO sites close to the Dordogne

    Also check UNESCO sites in Nouvelle Aquitaine for more sites, just a little bit further like for example Bordeaux.

      The Legend of the Dordogne River Dragon, -Le Coulobre-

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      A long time ago, a legend took root in the Dordogne, France. In times of need and desperation, people always sought to look up and maintain hope – hope for a better future and hope for safety. Allow me to share a story of that hope, which was held by the ancient inhabitants of our village, long before our time.

      The village of Pontours, named after the tower bridge that once stood, was, for many decades, a dreaded obstacle for merchants and travelers alike. To venture south, one had to cross the formidable Dordogne River, with Pontours and Lalinde offering two of the few shallow crossings. Despite appearing deceptively safe with its clear bottom, many attempted to traverse it by foot or boat. However, the current, already strong, used to be even more relentless, claiming the lives of hundreds. Boats would capsize, taking their passengers with them, while others would succumb to the rushing waters, unable to fight against the force. But was it solely the swift river causing such tragedies, or were the haunting tales told to children at bedtime also to blame? Could there truly have been something or someone lurking in the shallow depths of the River Dordogne?

      As the legend goes, there was a cave high above the cliffs of the river where a serpent, a water dragon, or an atrocity of an unearthly reptile was living. Some people described it with fangs, vicious reptilian eyes, a skin made of armored scales, and wings – it was the most frightening thing, the Coulobre, as they called it. It kidnapped people and drew animals into its lair to devour them, leaving nothing but bones behind. The villagers were desperate and didn’t know what to do; the future looked bleak. However, where there is hope, there is a way. One brave villager took it upon himself to journey to Perigeux, the capital of the Perigord, to seek the help of a bishop.

      This bishop’s name was Sir Front and he chose according to one legend violence to defeat the water dragon. He lured him with great speech out of his lair and the Coulobre appeared in front of him. He shot him, fearlessly with a bow and an arrow with fire, till the excruciating pain caused the dragon to lose his balance and plunge into the river. Another legend is that with a special sword, he was killed and Sir Front blew the last thrust into the heart of the beast before his ending. (A few different stories are told about the ending but these are the most spectacular ones). The dragon, according to this lore fell back into the waters where he roamed and killed so many and it is said that in summer when the water in the Dordogne River is very low, you could see his fossilized vertebra on the bottom of the river. But some will only see boulders or big rocks…

      To thank the great Sir Front for his effort and his bravery, the people built a chapel on the steep cliff that overlooks the Dordogne River and the village of Lalinde. Bishop Front was after this known as the Holy Front or Saint Front. The little chapel got his name, as well as the next village direction Bergerac, Couze et St. Front. The chapel can still be visited and stands tall with its intriguing history in a beautiful green mossed environment. In the summer there is a Coulobre festival and you will find from time to time artwork around Lalinde in the form of a dragon. Also on the market square in Lalinde is a bustling restaurant since 1970 named after this creature.

      Some people believe that long ago, St. Front didn’t kill the Coulobre. Instead, it’s said that he used his willpower to make the Coulobre stay away from human lands. The Coulobre supposedly went west and was last spotted heading towards the ocean. Legends say that the creature is now waiting for a chance to seek revenge and emerge from the depths of the Dordogne River again.

      Le Coulobre, Dordogne River

      Truffle Hunting in the Dordogne: A Guide for Beginners

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      If you are a foodie who loves to explore new flavors and experiences, you might want to try truffle hunting in the Dordogne region of France with our local guide Xavier Mathiaud from Ma Terre Premiere.

      Truffles are delicates that grow underground near the roots of certain trees, such as oak, hazel, and beech. They are highly prized for their rich aroma and flavor and can fetch very high prices in the market. Some of the most famous types of truffles are the black Périgord truffles from the Dordogne.

      Truffle hunting is a traditional activity that involves searching for these hidden delicacies with the help of trained animals, such as dogs or pigs (or even flies..). The animals can sniff out the truffles and dig them up, while the hunter follows them with a special tool called a truffle hook or a truffle knife. The hunter must be careful not to damage the truffles or the surrounding soil, as this can affect the future growth of the fungus.

      How to Find Truffles in the Dordogne

      The Dordogne is one of the best places to find truffles in France, as it has a favorable climate and soil for their development. The truffle season runs from November to March. During this time, you can find many truffle markets and festivals in the region, where you can buy fresh or preserved truffles, as well as other products made with them, such as oils, cheeses, chocolates, and wines.

      If you want to experience truffle hunting yourself

      You can book a tour with Xavier, a local truffle expert who will guide you through his own truffle farm. Xavier runs Ma Terre Première, (www.materrepremiere.fr) where you can learn more about his passion and services. He will show you how to find and harvest truffles and share with you his knowledge and secrets about these mysterious foods. You will also get to taste some of his homemade truffle products!

      La Maison Louverie has a special autumn deal for you to enjoy the Dordogne even more

      La Maison Louverie is a cozy and elegant Perigourdine house just 25 minutes from Bergerac (airport), 45 minutes from Sarlat, and 30 minutes from St. Alvere with its famous truffle market. ( Fly with Transavia, RyanAir, or Flybe)

      • Stay with 2 for only € 224 a night* in Chambre Truffe on the ground floor.
      • Or book with 6 for just € 63 p.p.p.n**. (Chambre Figure, 2 pers | Chambre Noix, 2 pers)

      Book between the 16th of September and mid-December 2023 and get a goody box with homemade jams, walnuts, and hazelnuts for your winter stock and your Christmas holidays.

      Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the magic of truffles in the beautiful Autumn Dordogne.

      You are persuaded that you need this holiday and experience this autumn but still have questions? Contact us.

      A bientôt at La Maison Louverie!

      *Book for a minimum of 4 nights, € 224 a night for 2 people. Stay in the large bedroom downstairs – Chambre Truffe- with an attached bathroom. The pool open till the end of October 2023

      **Book 1 or 2 rooms extra for € 75 a night each. No minimum nights. The rooms Chambre Figue and Chambre Noix on the first floor are both available for this Autumn deal and both have a private bathroom. max 2 guests per room.

      Tourist tax of € 1,10 p.p.p.n is not included

      Fall in Love with the Dordogne in Autumn: Why You Should Visit La Maison Louverie in September and October

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      Are you looking for a place to escape the crowds and enjoy the rustic beauty and tranquility of nature? Do you want to experience the authentic charm and luxury of French living? If so, you should visit La Maison Louverie, a 4* awarded holiday home that offers you everything you need for a perfect getaway.

      La Maison Louverie is located in Pontours, in the Perigord Pourpre region of the Dordogne, famous for its exquisite cuisine, fine wines, and stunning scenery. You can explore the rich history and culture of the area, with medieval towns like Sarlat-la-Canéda and Bergerac nearby, or enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, canoeing, or golfing.

      But what makes September and October the best time to visit this region? Well, there are many reasons why you should fall in love with the Dordogne in autumn:

      • The weather is pleasant and mild, with plenty of sunshine and moderate rainfall. The average daytime temperature in September is around 24°C (75°F), while in October it is around/above 19°C (66°F). The nights are cool and comfortable, with average lows of 12°C (54°F) in September and 10°C (49°F) in October. You can expect about 5 hours of sunshine per day in both months and about only 4 days of rain per month.
      • The forests are beautiful in color, with shades of red, orange, yellow, and green. You can admire the changing foliage as you walk or bike through the woods, or take a scenic drive along the country roads. You can also visit some of the most beautiful and romantic gardens in France, where you can enjoy the colors and scents of nature.
      • There are fewer tourists, which means more peace and quiet for you. You can avoid the crowds and queues at popular attractions, such as chateaux, prehistoric caves, and villages. You can also get better deals on accommodation, flights, and car rentals.
      • There are extraordinary things to do that are unique to this season. For example, you can join a truffle tour or a regional cookery class and learn about the local gastronomy. You can also taste the new wine harvest at one of the many vineyards in the area. Or you can treat yourself to a balloon flight with Montgolfière. Périgord Dordogne Montgolfières (perigord-dordogne-montgolfieres.com)  and see the Dordogne from above. This is an unforgettable experience that will let you admire the breathtaking views of the castles, villages, rivers, and forests in their autumn glory.

      So, as you can see, there are many reasons why you should visit La Maison Louverie in September and October. You can relax on the terrace with a glass of wine and admire the views, or cozy up by the fireplace with a good book. You can swim in your private pool or take a stroll in the woods. You can savor the delicious local cuisine and visit the nearby attractions. You can create memories that will last a lifetime.

      Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the authentic charm and French living at La Maison Louverie. Book your stay today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.