Tag 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!

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

    Bleu Monday

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    Feeling down on this Blue Monday? Transform those January blues into sunny excitement by booking your spring or summer getaway at La Maison Louverie in Dordogne today.

    What is Blue Monday?

    Blue Monday falls on January 19, 2026, marking the third Monday in January as the year’s most depressing day due to post-holiday blues, cold weather, and low motivation. Originally a 2005 marketing stunt by a UK travel company to boost bookings, it cleverly highlights the perfect antidote: planning a dream vacation.

    Beat the Blues with a Booking

    Combat the gloom by securing your spot now—early reservations lock in the best rates, prime availability, and flexible options like low deposits or cancellations up to 60 days out. Dordogne holiday rentals fill fast for peak seasons, especially premium villas with heated pools amid stunning countryside.

    Why Book Spring/Summer Now?

    Spring brings blooming valleys and mild hikes along the Dordogne River, while summer offers lazy pool days and bastide town festivals—perfect for families or groups up to 10. Booking early and ensuring your ideal dates in Pontours close to Lalinde, right in the middle of Sarlat and Bergerac, and lets you plan flights stress-free.

    Discover La Maison Louverie

    This 4-star secluded villa on 4 hectares features 5 elegant bedrooms, a heated pool, BBQ area, and timeless charm from its medieval roots—ideal for your Southwest France escape. Pets welcome, fiber WiFi, and proximity to riverside adventures make it a top pick.

    Ready to ditch the blues? Visit lamaisonlouverie.com and book your slice of Dordogne paradise today!

    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

    How to survive the winter in the Dordogne

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    Sometimes we feel completely closed off from the world here in the southwestern part of France. January is the month of – 50 Shades of Grey -. Some complain about it, but I love it. I think there is a reason why nature takes a nap when it’s cold and boring outside. It needs rest after that really busy season of hot summer that rolls in the beautiful long season of autumn. There are no 3 months straight spring, summer, autumn, or winter. And here in the forgotten world of January and the Dordogne, there is just a small nook that is registered for winter. Yes, it snows. And yes, it’s definitely cold, especially at night. But no other homecoming to the Dordogne than sniffing those smells like a haunting dog on a Sunday; all those roaring wood stoves and fireplaces with burning French oak.

    If you arrive in the dark, you feel like Elon Musk built a Starfleet to Mars and you missed that ship. There will be no life -other than crossing deer, badgers, and foxes, that also had no desire to leave planet Earth-, and there will be no light; all shutters, blinds, curtains, everything that can cover up the proof of life is hidden. No sound; French people tend to stay at home in the winter evenings, drinking their homemade red wines. No terrace is occupied, and most of the restaurants have also adjusted to the hibernation of men and closed for the season. The rolling fog, coming from the Dordogne River or the Vezere when the water is warmer than the outside temperature takes over the outer banks, the valleys, and will climb up onto the hills. Leaving every sound dampened. And the world is silent.

    In the morning when the world decides it’s time for a beautiful day, the sun will come out late. And after a frosty night, it can only be described as magical. Driving down the hill, direction the artist of bread and croissants in the nearby village, the river is waking up. The fog will leave the trees covered in a white breakable coat against a blue sky. Stepping into the bakery I am first in line because there are no tourists and well, the rest of the inhabitants also crawled back under the rock where their ancestors the Cromagnon came from, ages ago. They also survived winter. In their caves. With a fire to keep them warm. Nothing has changed much. We still live in, under, and in between stone walls. We changed however the open fireplace into a more efficient wood burner. I still gather wood daily, also no change there.

    So if you ever decide to come to this part of the world. This gentle side of life, in winter, in our 50 Shades of Grey. Be prepared for some true peace and quiet. Smell the Dordogne fog, enjoy those calm wind-free days and drink that red wine in front of that roaring, but contained fire. Have a walk in the mossy green forests and don’t forget to bring a camera. It’s easy to survive winter, just embrace the slow steps in this nook of the year. This is how you survive winter in the Dordogne

    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.

    the dordogne’s best kept secrets; candlelight evenings and cave sailing

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    If you are looking for a magical and unforgettable experience in the Dordogne region of France, you should not miss the candlelight evenings in the Marqueyssac Gardens and the boat trip in the Padirac caves. These are two of the most amazing attractions in the area, and they will leave you breathless with their beauty and charm.

    The candlelight evenings in the Marqueyssac Gardens are a unique event that takes place every Thursday evening in July and August, from 7 pm until midnight. The gardens are illuminated by over 2000 candles, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere that invites you to explore the winding paths, the exotic plants, and the stunning views over the Dordogne valley. You can also enjoy live music, dancing, and entertainment on the terrace of the chateau, or relax in one of the many romantic spots along the way. The candlelight evenings are a perfect way to discover the Marqueyssac Gardens, which are considered one of the most beautiful gardens in France.

    The boat trip in the Padirac caves is another must-see attraction that will take you on a journey to the center of the earth. The Padirac caves are one of the most famous caves in Europe, and they are home to a subterranean river that flows through spectacular galleries and chambers. You can access the caves by a lift or stairs, and then board a boat that will take you along the river for about 500 meters. You will marvel at the incredible formations, such as the Grande Pendeloque, a 60-meter-high stalactite that hangs over the Lac de la Pluie, or the Salle du Grand Dôme, with its 94-meter-high vault. The boat trip is an unforgettable adventure that will make you feel like you are in another world.

    The candlelight evenings in the Marqueyssac gardens and the boat trip in the Padirac caves are two of the best ways to enjoy the Dordogne region in a different and enchanting way. They are both suitable for all ages and tastes, and they will make your holiday memorable and special. If you want to book your tickets or find out more information, you can visit their websites12 or contact them by phone or email12. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of the Dordogne!