Atelier Shambhala is an artistic and cosy home close to the banks of the Dordogne River. This is a perfect base for a break surrounded by apple orchards, pretty hamlets, historic villages and vineyards.
This 2-person romantic apartment has been lovingly decorated and furnished to a high standard throughout. Downstairs you will walk in to an open-plan space with a living area alongside a modern fully-fitted kitchen and dining table. The airy home has wooden and tiled floors and is painted in neutral tones whilst there is artwork throughout which is fitting as this building is known as the art studio!
You can find the gallery bedroom and en suite shower room upstairs via the feature staircase, the perfect place to recharge after a busy day exploring.
Walk out into the walled garden to enjoy a long soak in the jacuzzi, dine al-fresco or just unwind on the sun loungers. Head out of the gate and stroll down to the banks of the Dordogne where there is river access for swimming or fishing and a little garden with a stone table and benches.
It's only 2km to the local village with a handful of restaurants with outdoor terraces, a tabac shop with useful amenities as well as the possibility of hiring canoes or kayaks for sailing along the Dordogne. The river itself is a wonderful attraction to have so close, why not pack a picnic and a good book for a quiet afternoon lying on the grassy banks. Alternatively, take a long walk or hire bikes and look out for local flora and wildlife.
The river acts as a boundary for two stunning areas of south-west France - the Dordogne and Gironde. While staying at the Atelier you can experience the landscapes, cultures and cuisines of both of these regions. The owners can help organise art courses or wine tastings at local vineyards which are great ways to enjoy the gorgeous natural surroundings.
Charming Gensac is only 4km away, a picture-perfect medieval village with historic buildings, ruins and a church which hosts summer concerts. As well as a small weekly fruit and vegetable market, the village is also home to a shop, restaurant and bakery.
Slightly further afield, visit historic Castillon-la-Bataille with its famous battle re-enactments in the height of the summer or experience one of the region's largest and most beautiful markets in medieval Sainte-Foy-la-Grande, again on the banks of the Dordogne.
For a wonderful day out, sample wine in the vineyards close to Bergerac or you could even spend time in the magnificent city of Bordeaux, well worth the drive of just over an hour.
