Manoir Tournesols
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Overview
It’s a true privilege to be able to stay at Manoir Tournesols, an artistic and incredibly beautiful house set in enchanting gardens close to the border of Lot-et-Garonne and Gironde, surrounded by landscapes of summer sunflowers, orchards and organic vineyards.
Once an early 19th-century coaching inn for pilgrims, the restoration of this elegant manoir is one-of-a-kind. Its owners have poured their heart and soul into this home and have created a unique retreat for guests who appreciate exquisite interior design and artistic style – it’s even been featured in the likes of Vogue and Elle.
Each of the five gorgeous bedrooms has been inspired by the owners’ travels near and far – admire vintage furnishings, chinoise wallpaper, hand-painted tiles, impressive artwork, characterful objets d’art as well as handcrafted king-size mattresses, high-end bed linen, welcoming robes and organic toiletries in each of the five bathrooms, three of which feature romantic rolltop baths.
The four-acre garden has been rewilded to create a magical ambience whether lazing by the heated swimming pool overlooking the lavender or relaxing in the wood-fired hot tub in a secret corner. Stroll past pomegranate, cherry, apricot, pear and walnut trees, see what may be growing in the vegetable garden and look out for free-roaming chickens alongside red squirrels and butterflies. Sit by the stone koi pond perhaps accompanied by a glass of wine from the manoir’s wine cellar, followed by an al-fresco feast prepared by the barbecue and pizza oven.
This part of France is all about charming bastide towns, pretty villages, vineyards, orchards, local produce markets and atmospheric marches nocturnes in the height of the summer – a true paradise for food and wine lovers alike. Visit the award-winning boulangerie in nearby Monségur by the Dropt valley, hire bikes to cycle along the Canal Latéral’s voie verte, appreciate the beauty of the Garonne River from Meilhan-sur-Garonne and enjoy seasonal canoeing and kayaking opportunities.
Visit the wineries and grand château in Duras, try the delicious tomatoes from Marmande and soak up the ambience of the fantastic Saturday morning in Sainte-Foy-la-Grande by the banks of the Dordogne. Venture to idyllic Saint-Émilion, Bergerac or Bordeaux for a grand day out or, within a 90-minute drive, you could be sampling white wine and oysters by the Atlantic coast at Arcachon Bay.
What you should know…
- Manoir Tournesols sleeps a maximum of 12 guests in total - up to 10 adults plus two additional children/babies using camp beds or cots which can be provided on request - please enquire.
- Please note that no more than four children (including babies) can stay at any one time. A cot, highchair and baby bath can be requested.
- Please supervise children across the house and gardens, especially by the prickly plants and koi pond.
This home is a part of our Great Value Collection!
Our great value homes:
- may be traditionally styled for a laid back feeling
- may have some simple amenities and features
- mean that you can enjoy top holiday destinations for less!
Property Features
Manoir Interiors
Manoir Tournesols sleeps a maximum of 12 guests in total - up to 10 adults plus two additional children/babies using camp beds or cots which can be provided on request - please enquire.
No more than four children (including babies) can stay at any one time. A cot, highchair and baby bath can be requested.
Ground Floor
- Lounge
- Dining room
- Kitchen, well-equipped
- Utility room
- Access to wine cellar
First Floor
- Bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom with free standing bath and shower (over bath)
- Bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom with free standing bath and shower (over bath)
- Bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom with bath and shower (over bath)
- Bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom with bath and shower (over bath)
- Bedroom with king-size double bed and adjacent bathroom with free standing bath and shower (over bath)
Outside Grounds (four acres)
- Heated swimming pool (9x4m, depth: 1.5m) with safety alarm. Open approximately June to September
- Wood-fired hot tub
- Pizza oven and barbecue
- Terrace for al-fresco dining
- Koi pond
- Chicken coop (and roaming free)
- Vegetable garden and fruit/nut trees
- Massage room
- Rewilded garden
- Driveway and parking
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Heating
- Fans
- Wood-fired hot tub
- Wine cellar
- Massage room
- Tennis rackets
- Organic toiletries
- Use of robes and slippers
Location
About the surrounding area of Manoir TournesolsIn the Lot-et-Garonne department, close to the border with Gironde, Manoir Tournesols is surrounded by landscapes of orchards, corn fields, vineyards and summer sunflowers. This region is known as the ‘orchard of France’ thanks to the abundance of fruit and vegetables grown here which can be sampled in local restaurants and bought at produce markets dotted around local towns and villages.
The house is located in a little hamlet and just a couple of minutes away on foot is a tennis court that is free to use for guests (the manoir has rackets available to borrow).
The nearest bastide town is Monségur (8km), a charming place overlooking the Dropt valley. There’s an award-winning boulangerie here as well as restaurants, a weekly food market and a night market in the height of the summer, a superb experience where local food and wine is served accompanied by live music. You can also find summer canoeing and fishing opportunities along the Dropt River, not to mention some picturesque walking routes.
Other pretty market towns include Duras (15km), famed for its wine, summer night market and impressive château, and Sainte-Foy-la-Grande (32km) by the banks of the Dordogne which hosts one of the largest and most beautiful markets on a Saturday morning. Still in the Dordogne but a little further afield, Issigeac (52km) is classified as one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’ and its Sunday morning market is loved by locals and visitors alike.
Closer to home, discover characterful villages and historic towns such as La Réole (13km), Castelmoron d’Albret (18km) and Eymet (30km) as well as Marmande (14km), known for its tomatoes. Enjoy walks by the Garonne River alongside summer canoeing and kayaking excursions and soak up the ambience of the summer night market in the idyllic hillside village of Meilhan-sur-Garonne. Cyclists of all ability should follow the voie verte by the Canal Latéral, passing relaxing scenery en route.
Wine-lovers have a choice of wonderful vineyards both near and far and shouldn’t miss a trip to the gorgeous hilltop village of Saint-Émilion (53km), surrounded by its historic vines which are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bergerac (55km) and Bordeaux (77km) can also be visited for a fantastic day out or venture west and you could be sipping white wine accompanied by oysters near Arcachon (136km) on the Atlantic coast or sampling the fine wines of Margaux (112km) on the Médoc peninsula.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport
(54km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Bordeaux Airport
(84km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
La Réole
(12km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
Monségur
(8km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Monségur
(8km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Sainte-Bazeille
(8.5km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf Marmande
(17km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis |
In the hamlet
(Short walk ) |
||
Region
Aquitaine’s reputation as a varied and enchanting destination is well-earned – whether you’re looking for relaxation or excitement, this beautiful part of south-western France is a feast for every one of the senses. To make sure you’re getting the very best of your holiday (and to clue you up if you’re thinking of going) check out our wonderful travel guide – it’s full of tips, info and the things you really shouldn’t miss when you visit unforgettable Aquitaine.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesPlease note that no more than four children (including babies) can stay at the property at any one time.
The Lot-et-Garonne and Gironde regions of France are perfectly located for beautiful riverside activities, glorious countryside and so much history across bastide towns, enchanting villages and impressive châteaux.
Just beyond nearby Monségur (8km), discover the Dropt River for summer canoeing and fishing whilst there are also water-based activities in the summer months along the Garonne, around a 15-minute drive away. The iconic Dordogne is also within reach – take a day trip to Bergerac for a boat ride in a traditional gabarre vessel as well as many other family attractions in and around the handsome market town.
Cyclists of all abilities can follow the Voie Verte trail alongside the Canal Latéral which runs near the Garonne River whilst there are some lovely walks around the countryside and local villages.
Around a 10-minute drive away is a little farm and leisure park, Parc du Griffon, open in high season with a range of farm animals and play areas. A little further north is a tree-top adventure centre, Des-chênes-toi Aventure, with trails for children depending on height (0.9m-1.4m+) as well as a huge zipline (1.4m+).
You could even drive to the Atlantic coast for a superb day out whether admiring the sand dunes around Arcachon or the surfing beaches and gorgeous watersport lakes of the Médoc peninsula, both reached in around a 90 to 110 minute-drive.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Baby bath
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- <1hr to Airport
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Tennis rackets
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
Services Available
- Babysitting Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Babysitting Available
- Massages Available
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Massage service
- Babysitting
- Mid-stay cleaning and/or linen change
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
| Security deposit | €850 paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €850 paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes except the wood-fired hot tub - wood is provided for one session and after this there is a cost for additional wood (approximately €20 per session). |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax is included. |
| Changeover day | Friday. All other changeover days on request. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. all other durations on request. |
| Pets welcome? | Not allowed. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only and only on the terrace (not in the garden due to the risk of fire). |
| Pool heating charge? | Included. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately June to September. Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Manoir Tournesols sleeps a maximum of 12 guests in total - up to 10 adults plus two additional children/babies using camp beds or cots which can be provided on request - please enquire. Please note that no more than four children (including babies) can stay at any one time. A cot, highchair and baby bath can be requested. |
| Security deposit | Two cots, two highchairs and a baby bath can be requested at the time of booking. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 10 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| May 3rd 2024 - May 4th 2024 | £4,003 |
| May 4th 2024 - Jun 1st 2024 | £3,634 |
| Jun 1st 2024 - Jul 1st 2024 | £4,153 |
| Jul 1st 2024 - Aug 1st 2024 | £4,492 |
| Aug 1st 2024 - Sep 1st 2024 | £5,184 |
| Sep 1st 2024 - May 2nd 2025 | £4,153 |
| May 2nd 2025 - May 31st 2025 | £3,634 |
| May 31st 2025 - Jun 30th 2025 | £4,153 |
| Jun 30th 2025 - Jul 31st 2025 | £4,492 |
| Jul 31st 2025 - Aug 31st 2025 | £5,184 |
| Aug 31st 2025 - Nov 4th 2025 | £4,153 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
How long have you owned the property?
I found the property when I was 29 years old and wanted to create a guest house, I have now owned the Manoir for 11 year...
Owner Profile
How long have you owned the property?
I found the property when I was 29 years old and wanted to create a guest house, I have now owned the Manoir for 11 years.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
I wanted something that had grandeur but felt like a family home too. The house had so much history, romance and charm that I knew instantly it was ‘the one’. The original features oak floor, beautiful staircase, fireplaces and large windows also really draw me in. The light is very special in summer, when the sun glows against the stone walls and the gardens vast with mature trees and fruit trees, a little magical!
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
The Manoir has a history as a coaching in for over 100 years, merchants and pilgrims to the church that is well known in the area for its holy water, would pass through, trade and stay the night. It also used to a vineyard and produce cider.
Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
YES! The actor James Norton (Happy Valley), the actress and singer Jessie Buckley, a French actor who its the French voice over artist for James Bond! We have also have had a film director and a ballet dancer. Artists and creatives really enjoy the house for it’s bohemian vibe.
For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really…
Must do?
The produce markets! The day and night ones. Visit some of the local 'brocantes' - antique shops.
Must eat?
Drink local wine! If you eat meat, cook steak over vine twigs on the BBQ and try the breads from La Chocolatine- Pain de Papa is a favourite. Try chocolate covered prunes and cherries, eat local fruits- strawberries, peaches and kiwis and the famous Marmandais tomato!
Must see?
St Emilion, Bordeaux and make a trip to some of the pretty Bastide and medieval towns.
What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
This is undiscovered France, slow France where life revolves around food, drink and family - there are land mark things to do if you can tear yourself away from the pool, but this area is the best place to eat, drink and relax!
Reviews
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Truly special place
A truly special place. Some places just manage to nail it, and this is one of them. Beautiful decoration, sumptuous sprawling garden, sparkling pool - Manoir Tournesols has it all. And the owners are the perfect hosts.
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2nd visit
This was our 2nd visit to this beautiful house and gardens. The house is wonderfully artistically decorated inside with imagination and luxury always in mind. We were a large family and there is plenty of space. The gardens are a peace haven with butterfly meadows at the back. Creative paths mowed sympathetically through them to make a stroll all the more enjoyable. The swimming pool has been thoughtfully placed at the far end of the garden and is perfect for adults or children. The house and gardens are without question the best we have stayed in.
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Impeccable attention to details
Inspirational Manoir with bohemian vibes and impeccable attention to detail. Luxury linens, wondrous antique/quirky décor and magical pool and gardens. A place to lose and find yourself...
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The owners put their heart and soul in
Wonderful place! The ambiance is truly special, you can see that the owners put their heart and soul in making it the unique house it is. The wonderful garden has a swimming pool and hot tub. Every room in this house tells a story. I cannot imagine a better place to relax and enjoy nature, food and great wine.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
