Enjoy the beauty of two gardens at Le Chai, a holiday rental house in the Dordogne. The large 19th century home sits within 7.5 acres of private grounds, including a picturesque landscaped garden for relaxation and another designed around a large swimming pool (18x9m), with a lawn for outdoor activities such as badminton, table tennis, cricket and a giant chessboard.

Inside, this traditional home features high ceilings, beautiful hardwood floors, antique furnishings and characterful decor. With 2 charming living rooms and a dining room for 12 with a large window for fresh air, it feels like an authentic old French home where you can all gather in pretty surroundings. The 6 bedrooms, some with exposed wooden beams, sleep 12, and there are 4 modernised bathrooms. With wireless broadband internet and cable TV with English and US channels, you can keep in touch with home.

The region is known for its Perigord cuisine—like truffles—and Bergerac appellation wines. Le Chai is a short drive from Monbazillac and Pecharmant vineyards, 2 of the most famous AOCs. The countryside is also dotted with fortified hilltop towns where you can explore the past, such as the medieval castle at Hautefort.

Close to the village of Mouleydier (5km) and Lalinde (10km), Le Chai is only 14 kilometres from the Bergerac airport.

• There’s a village within walking distance with a great kids playground, but no boulangerie or shops. Stock up in nearby Lalinde (10km) or Bergerac (15km).
• The pool is 100 meters from the house on adjoining grounds, so pack up your towels, sun-cream and shades for the afternoon
• The owner lives just next door, for check-in and check-out, but you may occasionally see her on the grounds as well