A rental in the Périgord Noir that has it all

It's not just the rental, although it is a gorgeous, restored cottage in the Périgord Noir set within the peaceful grounds of a small 17th century manor house that was formerly the courthouse for a nearby château.

Both cottage and manor are constructed in the local golden limestone with traditional stoned-tiled 'lauze' roofs and stone window surrounds, typical of the old local architecture. It is set in spacious, leafy grounds with areas for outdoor dining, a very large, private swimming pool and lovely views of the surrounding tree-lined hillside.

Light and airy, with oak floors and beams...

The interior combines traditional and contemporary styles. It is light and airy, with oak floors and beams and is furnished with painted antique furniture and period art. There are 2 spacious modern shower rooms and a handmade painted oak kitchen with dining area, as well as a charming and comfortable living area with a stone fireplace with woodturning stove. 

In the heart of the Vézère valley...

The cottage is unique, meeting the needs of both those needing to relax and de-stress in a quiet, peaceful environment with everything they need to hand and those wanting a more lively holiday. It is in an ideal, edge of village location in the heart of the Vézère valley with its numerous attractions, all within a stone's throw, such as charming riverside towns and villages, medieval settlements, châteaux and gardens. And for those looking for more outdoor activities, there is cycling, fishing and canoeing nearby, as well as international film, music and dance festivals, bric à brac and antiques fairs and day and evening markets.

UNESCO World Heritage site...

The cottage is situated a few minutes on foot from the village of Thonac - where there are 2 shops and 2 restaurants - between Montignac, celebrated for its Lascaux painted caves and Les Eyzies-de-Tayac, home to the National Prehistory Museum and designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Although small, the village has 3 beautiful châteaux which featured on the 2017 Tour de France.

We, the owners, live in the manor and are on hand to help, advise and warmly welcome visitors to our gorgeous corner of the Périgord Noir. See what a selection of past visitors thought of their stay in the Garden Cottage.

Contemporary interior design that maintains the character of the property...

'We found the holy trinity of travel in our first trip to the Dordogne in as much as our stay provided the perfect property, superb hosts and a wonderful location. The owners have renovated the property wonderfully by melding traditional Dordogne architecture with contemporary interior design that maintains the character of the property but also provides modern comforts. The location of the cottage combines a secluded rural position with easy access (5 minutes walk) to Thonac's 2 restaurants, shop and hotel bar. Similarly the main road through Thonac takes you through the picturesque Vezere valley with Montignac and our favourite Saint Leon only a few minutes drive. Medieval Sarlat, Beynac and Domme are slightly further afield but still an easy journey. Caves to canoeing, troglodytes to trekking and food and drink aplenty are all easily accessible from Thonac and you really can make any sort of holiday from this property. C'est magnifique!'

The pool and gardens are private and delightful...

'We loved every moment of our stay. The cottage is pretty but so well appointed; super-clean, well equipped and charming. The pool and gardens are private and delightful. Catarina and Stephen are great hosts - nothing is too much trouble and they are just so friendly. This property is a jewel, and the villages and ancient sites of the Vezere Valley make this a stunning trip.'

It was honestly one of the best holidays we have ever had...

View the property.