Atelier Shambhala
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Overview
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.
What you should know…
- Atelier Shambhala is available for adults only. The bedroom can be made up as a king-size double or twin beds depending on what would suit you best.
- There is an air-conditioning unit which covers the living/kitchen space and mezzanine bedroom - it also acts as heating in the winter.
- The owners have two homes within this lovely hamlet - Atelier Shambhala and Villa Shambhala (sleeps 8). The private off-road parking area is shared between these properties.
- Walking distance to a village/restaurant however please note that some parts of the route do not have pavements
Property Features
Villa Interior
Ground Floor
- Open-plan living area
- Open-plan kitchen-diner with oven, induction hob, fridge, freezer, dishwasher, coffee machine, kettle and breakfast bar/dining area
First Floor
- Mezzanine level with gallery bedroom with double bed (180cm, can be split into twins) and en-suite bathroom with shower, sink and WC
Outside Grounds
- Outdoor jacuzzi
- Decked terrace with sun loungers (x2)
- Al-fresco dining table and two chairs
- Barbecue
- Shared river access (accessed via steps, a very short walk from the house)
- Access to small riverside garden area with bench and stone table (reached via above shared steps)
- Off-road parking (one car)
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Air-conditioning/heating unit (covers living/kitchen space and mezzanine bedroom)
- TV
- Outdoor jacuzzi
- Washing machine
- Dryer
Location
About the surrounding area of Atelier ShambhalaLocated in a rural hamlet on the banks of the beautiful Dordogne, Atelier Shambhala is an idyllic spot for a getaway in the south of France. Nearby you can discover the charms of historic villages, visit vineyards or drive to the lively cities of Bordeaux and Bergerac.
This area really lends itself to getting outdoors and spending time in nature. Within 2km of the villa you can try kayaking or canoeing on the river, walk through apple orchards or hire bikes for a day of cycling. If you would prefer to take in the scenery while sipping on a glass of local wine then why not visit a vineyard for a tour and wine tasting, this can be arranged locally with the owners.
If you need to pick up some groceries or want to dine out in the evening then the the local village is a lazy 2km walk along the Dordogne, while the village of Gensac is 4km by car. In Gensac there is a small selection of restaurants which offer outdoor dining with a view, there is also a grocery shop, bakery and historic sites such as castle ruins. In summer the village comes alive and you will discover a programme of concerts held in the local church.
The town of Castillon-la-Bataille (11km) has a wider range of restaurants and shops. People also flock here due to its history as the famous Battle of Castillon, the last battle in the Hundred Years War was fought here in 1453. There is lots to see and do in the town and some of the key attractions include the impressive town hall, the 18th-century Saint-Symphorien church and the museum. There is even a riverside lawn beach in Castillon-la-Bataille where you can sunbathe and try out summer watersports. If you are a history lover then you may enjoy watching the large-scale re-enactment of the battle of Castillon which is held twice a week throughout July and August. Why not grab dinner in a little family run restaurant before settling down to watch the show. With 400 actors and staggering sets involved it is said to be an amazing performance.
Another lovely place to visit is famous Saint-Émilion, a picturesque medieval village surrounded by vineyards which have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This village is the oldest wine-producing area in the Bordeaux wine region and wine has been produced here since Roman times. You can find out more about the history of wine production and see more of the town by booking on to a tour with a knowledgeable guide. If you would prefer to wander around yourself then you will find countless squares lined with incredible architecture dotted around the maze-like cobbled streets. Make sure to visit the vast 12th century Monolithic Church which was carved from one piece of stone, the bell tower of the church also offers panoramic views of the valley. Saint-Émilion is also a great place to visit for dinner as it is packed with amazing restaurants. Be aware that many of the best restaurants such as the Michelin starred Logis de la Cadene are often booked up in advance so this should be arranged before you visit to avoid disappointment. If you would rather try some simple local cuisine then grab some fresh bread and cheese from the brilliant markets and have a macaroon for dessert, they have been made here since 1620!
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Bergerac/Bordeaux
(40km/72km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Pessac-sur-Dordogne
(1.7km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Veline
(6km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis | Pessac-sur-Dordogne/Veline | ||
| Nearest Supermarket |
(2km) |
||
| Nearest Golf | Chateau Vigiers/Castillon la Bataille/St Emilion | ||
| Nearest Restaurant | Pessac-sur-Dordogne | ||
| Nearest Beach |
Lac de Gurcon/La Canau
(16km/116km) |
||
Region
The pace of life in the Dordogne is languid, laid back and positively infectious. Relax in bucolic beauty as you drift along the Dordogne River, or wander among the forests and hillside of the Périgord Natural Park.
The foodie scene too, is a relaxed affair. Take your time over your lazy lunches of local duck, black truffles and goats cheese. If you’re feeling energetic, you can even hunt for them yourself. The wine here is second to none, with famous grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chenin Blanc all having a huge presence here.
The Dordogne is also brimming with history. Castles and chateaux are scattered throughout the region, among the enchanting medieval villages. History of an altogether more ancient sort can also be explored in the incredible prehistoric cave drawings of Lascaux and Grotte de Rouffignac.
Click to download your definitive Guide to the Dordogne >>
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Wine-Tasting Available
- Maid Service Available
- Early check-in for luggage available
- Bike hire available (at extra cost)
- Private art classes available on request
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
- Babysitting/childcare services
Extras available at this property (at an extra cost):
- Complimentary welcome hamper with wine and homemade products
- Mid-week clean
- Early check-in for luggage
- Wine Tastings
Art Courses
Experiential art company ‘Live in Art’ has launched a series of new residential art courses taught by acclaimed French contemporary artist Eric Bourse.
The location of the courses is Live in Art’s first permanent ‘living gallery’ space and studio, the luxurious Villa Shambhala on the banks of the beautiful Dordogne river in south west France. With its dedicated art studio and gallery space, direct private river access and only 20 minutes from world UNESCO site Saint-Emilion, it’s the perfect spot for an inspirational weekend of painting and wine tasting in the Dordogne.
Take full advantage of the expert teaching techniques of Eric Bourse who will offer you a personal guidance in developing skills and personal style through the versatile medium of acrylics. All abilities are welcome – beginners wanting a taster session to start them on their painting journey or more experienced painters who want to develop their style and technique. All materials and equipment needed to take part in the course will be provided with a small canvas completed to take home at the end of the course.
The art studio at Villa Shambhala has been developed under Eric’s direction and is hung with Eric’s own work, as well as used as his own working space. Villa Shambhala is also hung as a ‘living gallery’ of Eric’s work and other French contemporary artists.
Please note the art studio is a private area with a separate access to it.
Bike Hire
A local bike hiring company which offer helmets and full insurance for all ages and sizes is available.
Contact us for full details.
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 | £500 charged to client’s credit card one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | £500 charged to client’s credit card one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights June to end-September. 5 nights during all other periods. |
| Changeover day | Saturday. Flexible during short stays (approximately mid-April to end-September). |
| 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. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes (for the jacuzzi). |
| Energy costs included? | Included. However charging of electric vehicles is not included. There is a convenient charging station in the nearby town just 1.5km away. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes - there is an air-conditioning/heating unit which covers the living/kitchen space and mezzanine bedroom. |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. If accepted, a pet supplement of £75 per pet per week will apply. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Not allowed. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax is included. |
| Insurance | Guests are required to be in possession of a valid insurance policy, which covers them for cancellations, loss of personal belongings, personal liability and any accidental damage caused during their stay. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | For insurance purposes, all exterior doors and windows must be locked when away from the property. The owner of the property will not accept responsibility for any loss, damage or consequential losses due to theft or any other security related incidents. |
| Other Ts and Cs | The bed can either be a double bed for a couple or 2 single beds for a parent and child. However the villa is not suitable for little children or babies. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 2 people:
| Rental period | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|
| May 21st 2025 - May 24th 2025 | - | £1,304 |
| May 24th 2025 - Jun 21st 2025 | - | £1,499 |
| Jun 21st 2025 - Aug 23rd 2025 | - | £1,773 |
| Aug 23rd 2025 - Aug 30th 2025 | - | £1,499 |
| Aug 30th 2025 - Sep 27th 2025 | - | £1,227 |
| Sep 27th 2025 - Dec 20th 2025 | £982 | £1,227 |
| Dec 20th 2025 - Jan 3rd 2026 | £1,418 | £1,773 |
| Jan 3rd 2026 - Apr 11th 2026 | £982 | £1,227 |
| Apr 11th 2026 - Apr 25th 2026 | - | £1,227 |
| Apr 25th 2026 - May 23rd 2026 | - | £1,304 |
| May 23rd 2026 - Jun 20th 2026 | - | £1,499 |
| Jun 20th 2026 - Aug 22nd 2026 | - | £1,773 |
| Aug 22nd 2026 - Aug 29th 2026 | - | £1,499 |
| Aug 29th 2026 - Sep 26th 2026 | - | £1,227 |
| Sep 26th 2026 - Nov 22nd 2026 | £982 | £1,227 |
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.
When did you become the owner?
2 years ago.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
I fell in love with the romantic fairy tale setti...
Owner Profile
When did you become the owner?
2 years ago.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
I fell in love with the romantic fairy tale setting on the banks of The Dordogne. I immediately called my home Shambhala, a place of peace, tranquility and happiness.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
In the 19th Century the famous art historian Élie Faure lived next door, he wrote the History of Art in France. The house was visited by many artists including Diego Rivera and Soutine. Picasso painted his portrait in 1922, the year Élie Faure bought the house, he was frequently visited by Charlie Chaplin.
Villa Shambhala continues in this artistic tradition and houses a working artist studio.
Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
Many.
For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really…
Must do?
Soak up the Spirit of Shambhala and the magic of the Dordogne.
Must eat?
Foie gras, truffles and cèpes. Walnuts with cabacou cheese, figs and honey.
Must see?
St-Émilion and the numerous chateaux, Medieval bastides, market towns, Bordeaux and the Cite du Vin. The wild life of The Dordogne.
What insider tip would you pass on about the property and the area?Escapism from city life. Getting back to nature and watching the early morning mist on the river revealing the swans gliding silently by and soaking up the glory of the evening skies, watching the stars.
Reviews
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Wonderful ! Enjoyed our stay … Beautiful house and beautiful host
We completely enjoyed our week stay in this well appointed house and thoroughly enjoyed the care and concern of the hosts to assure our stay was perfect. The house book and all the advices were greatly appreciated. The local area and ease of travel was perfect.
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5/5 - Amazing week
It was everything we could have hoped for and more. Location excellent, and exactly how it was described, Thank you Thank you Thank you
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Perfectly located accommodation for this lovely part of France
The accommodation was very comfortable and ideally located for this beautiful stretch of the Dordogne. A perfect base for exploring the region without having to venture too far.
Perfectly located. Very nice conversion in an authentic building. Air conditioning was a welcome bonus! -
The most fantastic holiday in the Dordogne
We have just returned from the most fantastic holiday in the Dordogne in France. We stayed at Atelier Shambhala which my husband booked at the last minute and we were met by our lovely friendly host Kit who owns the property. Kit made us very welcome showed us round and gave us loads of information about the area. Both Kit and Eric her husband assured us that if needed any help or information we could e-mail or ‘phone her anytime. There are an enormous number of places to visit and things to do in this area. We love golf so we played golf at the sensational Chateaus des Vigiers. The people were very welcoming and helpful we thoroughly enjoyed it. The rest of the time was spent visiting Markets, sightseeing and enjoying wonderful French food. The Villa was very comfortable very well equipped and the icing on the cake was the Hot Tub. After a busy day wallowing in the hot tub was bliss. Kit and Eric were brilliant hosts and we would recommend both the Villa and this wonderful area with great views of the Dordogne River.
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Our hosts are very helpful!
Our hosts are very helpful!
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The house is situated in a very nice and totally French Village with lots of charm.
The house is situated in a very nice and totally French Village with lots of charm. Nice big bed,bathroom,kitchen and living area. No complaints at all and had a lovely stay there. Kit is a charming, warm and extremely helpful hostess and makes the stay there all the more pleasant. She is helpful to the extreme and if anything needs to be taken care of while you are living in her little house, she is on it very promptly. We highly recommend her, the house and the area.
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Lovely riverside location
We had a wonderful week staying at Atelier Shambhala. It’s a really lovely house/gite that has been beautifully converted to a high standard and comes with air conditioning (was super useful the week we stayed!) and a nice jacuzzi. Clean, modern and classy in keeping with the quaint architecture of the building. There was lots of beautiful artwork on display too painted by the artist Eric Bourse who along with the charming Kit were wonderful hosts. We really enjoyed the paintings.
A short hop, skip and jump out of the front gate and you find yourselves on the banks of the River Dordogne which is very lovely. It’s a very beautiful location and great to just chill on the banks or take a swim in the river.
We found the Atelier to be an excellent location to explore the delights of the region - Saint-Émilion, Eymet on market day (Wednesday) with a lovely meal in the excellent Italian on the square, Beynac et Cazenac, Sarlat, Bordeaux City and we even went chic beachside over in Cap Ferret with the lovely Oyster restaurants and cool cafes and boutiques and outstanding beaches.
It was always a delight to return to our lovely gite at the end of the touring day as the location is so lovely by the river. Lots of good places to eat in the area, some walkable too.
A super week in a beautiful location on the peaceful banks of the Dordogne in excellent accommodation. We really enjoyed ourselves. -
Perfect for two
We had a super holiday at the atelier and wish we could have stayed longer. The property is in a wonderful, tranquil location next to the beautiful river and by a stunning private chateau, nestled in a hamlet surrounded by chestnut orchards, apple orchards and vineyards. Lovely contemporary, creative interior and outdoor space. Everything we could need plus an amazing hot tub. Lovely riverside walks and a good restaurant too within walking distance. We played tennis at the next village of Presac; it was like having our own private court. Ideal spot for exploring the region including St Emillion, Bergerac, Sarlat and the Saturday market at St Foy la Grande. Many thanks to Eric and Kit for their warm welcome, discrete hosting and for being there if we needed them. It was special to be able to meet Eric Bourse the artist, whose works form such an important part of the atelier. We look forward to our next visit.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
