Petite Shambhala
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Original artwork, dreamy sunsets, swans on the river and the best wines in the world….Villa Shambhalahas been a firm favourite at Oliver’s Travels for many ...
Read moreOverview
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Original artwork, dreamy sunsets, swans on the river and the best wines in the world….Villa Shambhala has been a firm favourite at Oliver’s Travels for many years and so we are delighted to introduce Petite Shambhala, the owner’s latest creation, a charming and beautifully restored village house just across the lane.
The mesmerising Dordogne River is just 25 metres away and life on the river is very much at the heart of this village – swans glide along the water, wildlife comes and goes, locals pass by on canoes, whilst others try their luck at fishing. Inside, the house showcases the owner’s creative flair and artistic talent. Original paintings adorn the walls and the décor is stylish and elegant. Everything is brand new and totally refurbished to a high standard using natural materials in stone and oak.
Outside it has its own walled courtyard garden with a large terrace with loungers and outdoor furniture as well as table, chairs and a barbecue. Guests can also access the owner's riverside garden around 40m away where you can gaze at the Dordogne from the bench beneath the fig tree, also an idyllic spot for evening picnics.
When in residence, the owner has an art studio (discreetly tucked away at Villa Shambhala) and is also a wine expert.
From the house, a 20-minute drive will take you to charming Saint-Émilion, where world class restaurants sit beside ancient ruins. The fabulous city of Bordeaux, with its new ‘Cité du Vin’ is a must see town and only an hour away.
Read more about the charming Petite Shambhala on Arbuturian and West London Living.
What you should know…
- One of the en-suite bathrooms just a few steps from the bedroom, just across the small landing.
- 5-night autumn and winter stays are possible for an indulgent getaway to this exciting region of France.
- The owner has three homes within this lovely hamlet - Petite Shambhala, Villa Shambhala (sleeps 8) and Atelier Shambhala (sleeps 2). The private off-road parking area is shared between these properties.
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
Cottage Interior
Ground Floor (open plan)
- Fully fitted kitchen with induction cooking
- Dining area
- Sitting area
First Floor
- Master bedroom with super king-size bed (can be made into 2 single beds), en-suite shower room with hand-basin, toilet and electric towel rail
- 2nd bedroom with super king-size bed (can be made into 2 single beds), shower room, hand-basin, toilet, heated towel rail (1m across the landing)
Outside Grounds
- Small private walled/trellis planted garden
- Large terrace with loungers, 4 chairs, parasols, barbecue and 2 picnic chairs (that can be taken down to the riverbank and brought back after use)
- Gravel area with planted bed
- Access to owner’s riverside garden 40m away with bench under a large shaded fig tree
- Private off road parking
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- TV
- Washing machine
- Dishwasher
- Tumble dryer
- Locked entrance gate
- Baby equipment
Location
About the surrounding area of Petite ShambhalaThe welcoming climate and stunning scenery of the Dordogne encourage exploration, and the region has many treasures to delight wine connoisseurs, gourmets, artists and activity enthusiasts alike.
Make the most out of the Dordogne river and enjoy the many outdoor activities such as boating, canoeing, fishing, bird-watching and a lot more.
The chic bustle of St Emilion, only twenty minutes from Shambhala, offers stylish boutiques, contemporary fine art and world class restaurants. Following the Dordogne and Lot waterways will reward the explorer with many new delights, as charming villages and market towns such as Bergerac, Souillac and Cahors were established through trade along their banks.
Bordeaux is an elegant city filled with architectural delights. The visitor can enjoy the narrow streets of the old town, stunning 18th Century mansion houses, the neoclassical theatre and wide boulevards lined with boutique shops in this diverse and attractive city.
Along the Dordogne are many fine chateaux such as Beynac and Monpazier, mainly built for military action against England during the 100 Years’ War. Each summer only ten minutes from Shambhala a dramatic battle re-enactment is held at Castillon de Bataille (July and August). The home of the philosopher Michel Montaigne is only 10 minutes away, and there are fine Gallo-Roman mosaics to be seen in the neighbouring village of Montcaret.
The traditional French hamlet location is a peaceful centre from which to explore the region, with excellent amenities close by.
The local village of Pessac is just along the Dorgogne where you can take a coffee, drink and pick up fresh croissants and papers while enjoying the beautiful countryside, vineyards, apple orchards and walnut groves. When you reach the village there is a small supermarket, boulangerie, tobacconist, hair salon and two restaurants. Slightly further out you have Castillon and Sante Foy that have larger supermarkets and various markets throughout the week which specialise in local produce.
The nearby Chateau Bauduc, favoured by Gordon Ramsay and Rick Stein, is a must for wine connoisseurs and offers a programme of tours and tastings, with private visits by arrangement. Wine tours of the many local vineyards are a wonderful chance to sample world-renowned names. Chateau Monbazillac is at Bergerac and St Emilion, Cahors and others are all nearby, offering a chance to sample outstanding wines on the soil where the grapes are grown.
To accompany the wines are many famous traditional cheeses, truffles, mushrooms, duck and goose delicacies such as foie gras. The wealth of gourmet produce makes this area a paradise for foodies, who will be delighted by the local markets of Castillon, Sante Foy and Libourne. This passion for fine produce is reflected in the many excellent restaurants throughout the region.
Kid's Activities:- Zoo de Bordeaux 1 hr- Water Park Bordeaux 1 hr- Aquarium du Perigord Nord Le Bugue 1hr 25 min- Chateua Bridoire 40 min
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Bergerac/Bordeaux
(45mins/1h 15mins) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Pessac-sur-Dordogne
(2km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Veline
(8km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis | Pessac-sur-Dordogne/Veline | ||
| Nearest Shop | Pessac-sur-Dordogne | ||
| Nearest Supermarket |
(2km) |
||
| Nearest Golf | Chateau Vigiers/Castillon la Bataille/St Emilion | ||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Pessac-sur-Dordogne
(1km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
Lac de Gurcon/La Canau
(25mins/1h) |
||
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 infamous 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 >>
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesA “baby go lightly package” comprising of the following equipment is offered at Petite Shambhala:
Highchair
Standard-size travel cot
Stairgate
Play pen
Pushchair
Baby walker
Baby intercom
Baby toys
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Pushchair
- Stair gates
- Changing mat
- Plastic crockery
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Walk to Restaurant
- <1hr to Airport
- Watersports
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Board games
- Pool inflatables
- Children's videos/DVDs
- Children's books
- Fenced Grounds
Services Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting Available
Oliver's Extras
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting 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 pr...
Read moreExtras
Oliver's Extras
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting 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:
- Complimentary welcome hamper with wine and homemade products
- Mid-week clean
- Babysitting service
- 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 and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | After 4.00 p.m. Please note that early check-ins are possible by prior arrangement only and that extra fees apply. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. Please note that late check-outs are possible by prior arrangement only and that extra fees apply. |
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 and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | After 4.00 p.m. Please note that early check-ins are possible by prior arrangement only and that extra fees apply. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. Please note that late check-outs are possible by prior arrangement only and that extra fees apply. |
| 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 (including clean oven, clean barbecue and all rubbish removed). Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Smoking Allowed? | No. |
| 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. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights (or 5 nights from October to mid-April). |
| Changeover day | Saturday (all other days on request). |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| 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. |
| 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 | 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 | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 4 people:
| Rental period | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|
| Apr 24th 2024 - Apr 27th 2024 | - | £1,895 |
| Apr 27th 2024 - May 25th 2024 | - | £1,395 |
| May 25th 2024 - Jun 22nd 2024 | - | £1,602 |
| Jun 22nd 2024 - Aug 24th 2024 | - | £1,895 |
| Aug 24th 2024 - Aug 31st 2024 | - | £1,602 |
| Aug 31st 2024 - Sep 28th 2024 | - | £1,314 |
| Sep 28th 2024 - Dec 21st 2024 | £1,051 | £1,314 |
| Dec 21st 2024 - Jan 4th 2025 | £1,516 | £1,895 |
| Jan 4th 2025 - Apr 12th 2025 | £1,051 | £1,314 |
| Apr 12th 2025 - Apr 26th 2025 | - | £1,895 |
| Apr 26th 2025 - May 24th 2025 | - | £1,395 |
| May 24th 2025 - Jun 21st 2025 | - | £1,602 |
| Jun 21st 2025 - Aug 23rd 2025 | - | £1,895 |
| Aug 23rd 2025 - Aug 30th 2025 | - | £1,602 |
| Aug 30th 2025 - Sep 27th 2025 | - | £1,314 |
| Sep 27th 2025 - Oct 26th 2025 | £1,051 | £1,314 |
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.
Name: Kit
How long have you owned the property:
16 years
What did you fall in love with?
I fell in love with the romantic fairy tale setting on the banks of The Do...
Owner Profile
Name: Kit
How long have you owned the property:
16 years
What did you fall 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 any one coming to stay what should they really do?
Soak up the Spirit of Shambhala and the magic of the Dordogne.
What should one really eat?
Foie gras, truffles and cepes. Walnuts with cabacou cheese, figs and honey.
What should one really see?
St Emilion 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 from the roof terrace.
Reviews
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Beautiful setting
Beautiful setting, great reception from the host.
Very well presented accommodation. Has met all expectations so far. -
Joyous
A beautiful cottage in a fabulous location. Love the original artwork on the walls and to have the Dordogne river right outside is a bonus. The dogs are loving it and the river walk with walnut groves and apple orchards to meander through is a joy. Very friendly and helpful host.
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We are thrilled!
An incredibly beautiful and peaceful location
and a wonderfully thoughtful and generous host are already making our holiday a first class experience. We are thrilled! -
Tranquil hideaway next to the river
Beautiful cottage in a gorgeous location near the river. Le Petite Shambhala has everything you need for a relaxing getaway. It is well located to visit Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, Bergerac and many lovely little villages. Loved it!
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Lovely!
Lovely, light property close to the Dordogne river. Well equipped.
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Lovely cottage!
Lovely cottage in rural setting close to the Dordogne. The cottage itself is well equipped, the internet works reliably (a must these days), and the owner maintained excellent contact via email.
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Perfect location
We had booked this cottage before Covid so there was a great deal of anticipation and we were not disappointed. We were greeted so warmly on our arrival by the owner, Kit, and she looked out for us throughout our stay. We loved sitting by the Dordogne (just a few steps away) in the late afternoon with a cup of tea and just watching the wild life and a few swimmers. It was so peaceful. The swimming pool was greatly appreciated, especially on our first two days when it was so hot! Sadly, the pool is not available with Petite Shambhala next season. There are at least two good restaurants within walking distance. We enjoyed excellent meals at both L'Ardoise and Passaquai. Bergerac, St Emilion and Eymet are all short distances away and there are so many wineries locally to visit. In short we had a lovely time and the week simply flew by.
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Wonderful!
The place was just like I expected it to be, a wonderful one by the river. It was neat and clean, and the hosts made us feel as we were at home.
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Oasis of Tranquility
What an amazingly relaxing place you have here - a real oasis of tranquility. We have never tired of the beautiful views of the Dordogne river and the calming pace of life down here. The perfect antidote to the chaos of city life!
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Heavenly
I can't remember the last time we were away and had such a relaxing time. The sounds of the river, the birds, the crickets added to the tremendous views of the Dordogne. We sat on the terrace and played cards whilst drinking the lovely wines, we laughed, we relaxed and we slept like logs. This place is heavenly and we look forward to coming back soon.
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Amazing memories
Thank you for a fantastic stay! We have loved our week in this beautiful riverfront house, and have created amazing memories. Thank you for being so sweet and welcoming, instantly making us feel at home.
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A Wonderful Stay
Thank you for a wonderful stay in your beautiful house. Proof of the restorative power of nature, peace and quiet for body and mind.
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A Warm Welcome
Thank you for your warm welcome. We have very much enjoyed staying at Shambhala - we would definitely be back hopefully one day. Beautiful location, great house - thanks for all your suggestions and help. Your pate and wine were very much appreciated - thank you.
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Lovely setting and very peaceful
Private pool across the road is very welcome after a hot day. There is one very nice restaurant about 15minutes walk away but nothing else within easy walking distance.
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We have had a wonderful holiday in your lovely home!
What a perfefct and peacful setting. We hired bikes to go exploring and kayaking along the river. The kids have enjoyed the pool a lot. We hope to come back one day with our dog, she would love it.
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Lovely getaway!
Lovely villa on a lovely property. Enjoyed the markets, wine, and gentle pace of life.
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Lovely Property!
Lovely situation. Clean house tastefully decorated. Access to pool across the lane was shared with the big house as we rented this as well for a family of 12 in total. Worked very well.
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Wonderful!
Great place, pool, location!
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Really Nice!
Well presented and excellent position for touring the area!
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What a delightful stay !
We were so comfortable and relaxed. Your home is beautiful, the Dordogne right outside is spectacular. And of course the wine! Thank you again for your hospitality. We loved every minute of it!
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A Lovely Time!
What a wonderful little house this is and what a truly beautiful setting. We watched many a sunset down by the river with a glass or two of local wines.
You and Eric went out of your way to make this holiday truly special and you turned it into an experience none of us will ever forget. We hope to come back soon and would recommend this picturesque slice of heaven to any and all
We will look forward to a glass of Vin rouge upon our return! -
Thank you for this Great Stay!
Thank you so much for this delightful stay. We are all the way from Perth Australia and expected a relaxing, peaceful and beautiful stay here and that’s exactly what we received! We enjoyed visiting the towns and surrounding area but our favourite part was our evening strolls and sitting out the front of this beautiful house having afternoon drinks and fabulous local wine and platters, while the kids played all sorts of games .The water was freezing but our daughter couldn’t resist swimming and we loved how beautiful the sun was as it glistened on the water. The swinging chair across the road was a hit for the kids and we enjoyed watching the swans swimming below. Thank you so much, this was the highlight of our trip and we are so grateful for your kindness. We will try to visit again soon!
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Mindfulness Achieved
Petite Shambhala’s easy-going way of life...helped me discovered a wonderful retreat. In just five days we had discovered a wonderful retreat, explore world-famous medieval towns, dined like local kings and drunk… well, too much frankly. This tiny little chink in the great Dordogne had won us over and somehow it already fels like home.
Read Jessica’s full review:
http://www.arbuturian.com/travel/travelfeatures/petite-shambhala-dordogne -
Faultless Property. Faultless Service.
Our stay at Petite Shambhala was fantastic. The property was exactly as we had anticipated and the owner went above and beyond to make us feel welcome- even providing lots of extras fo our baby. Oliver's Travels were incredibly efficient and helpful and we loved the thoughtful touches throughout - from selfie stick to beach ball!
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Perfect for the Family
Thank you so much for a wonderful stay. I am really happy to have discovered this tranquil spot. The house was perfect for our family stay. I loved the great set up and dreamy river views…Rosie loved kicking around in the lovely pool area…and josh! John loved getting the BBQ going at Eric’s fantastic art works…even if some of his collection was in China.
St.Emilion was great, if a little tricky with the pram. We also loved exploring the local markets. But my lasting memory will be your wonderful house and the river – it is hypnotic. What a great place to ‘just be’!
We hope to return and see it in another season one day.
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Thank you for a wonderful stay!
We feel very lucky to have found this perfect spot. The house is beautiful and had everything we needed and the pool was a real blessing in this heat!
The location by the river is incredible and we loved taking our little one for evening strolls exploring the vineyards, orchards, and the riverside garden.
All your recommendations were great - we loved the medieval market towns and trips to St Emilion, Pessac and especially Lac du Gurcon; a really peaceful spot perfect for kids.
Most of all thank you for your kindness - you have been so warm and welcoming; recognising that a seven month pregnant woman with a toddler in tow (and husband!) was about ready to pass out in this heat!
You looked after us beautifully and we may well hope to come back as a family of four in the future. -
Amazing Stay
Had an amazing stay at Petite Shambala, in France. The location was beautiful and the service/hostess was perfection. A really unique and beautifully relaxing stay. Thank you to Renata and the staff at Oliver’s Travels for all their hard work and finding us something ‘last minute’ that suited our needs perfectly. Can’t wait to return.
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A Magical Holiday Home
Thank you again for a truly magical time at Petite Shambhala. You've created a magical place and we've loved absolutely everything about it.
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Thank you again for a wonderful stay
We were delighted to be the first guests to stay in this lovely property. We had previously stayed in Villa Shambhala so were expecting Kit to have created something special. We were not disappointed. The cottage is light and airy with comfortable and attractive furnishings in the open plan sitting area. The kitchen/diner is well equipped. Upstairs there are two spacious bedrooms with very comfortable, huge beds dressed with cool white linen, two bathrooms with great showers and a washing machine and drier in the ensuite. The outside small courtyard is a project in the making but was perfect for breakfast. The real bonus was having use of the riverside garden. The panoramic view of this beautiful and tranquil part of the river was very special at any time of the day but particularly in the evening with a glass of local wine! Kit was, as always, a charming thoughtful host and met our requests promptly and cheerfully.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
