The Retreat
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Overview
In a stunning rural setting, just south of the Dordogne river, perfectly located between Sarlat and Rocamadour, The Retreat is a charming home full of original features and great character. With vast gardens, a heated swimming pool and delightful interiors, this is a wonderful place from which to explore this enchanting region.
The caring owners have beautifully restored this 18th century home ensuring they have retained traditional features such as the wood-beamed ceilings and exposed stone walls in the inviting living room whilst adding modern comfort throughout. There are three sweet bedrooms, each with the added benefit of air-conditioning.
Outside you can enjoy the spectacular views of the Dordogne valley from the glorious grounds, where you will also find a heated swimming pool, a traditional stone barbecue and peaceful spots perfect for relaxing in the tranquil surroundings.
This home has a wonderful family ambience, not only because of the lovely interiors and spacious gardens but also because of the activities provided such as table-tennis, football, basket ball, badminton and more. Even pets have been thought of by the owner who has secured part of the vast grounds to allow dogs to play.
In a remote and quiet location in the Lot department near the Dordogne, it's just a short drive to the shops and restaurants in nearby St. Julien de Lampon or Souillac, both of which also have a lovely weekly market. In this glorious area you can explore some lovely villages across the region of Lot such as Gourdon with its honey coloured houses or the spectacular Rocamadour, built on the edge of a cliff.
Not forgetting the lovely Dordogne river where you can picnic on a beach, go for long walks or hire canoes. Follow the river to the west and discover idyllic villages such as Domme, La Roque Gageac and Castelnaud-la-Chapelle.
Another must is the glorious medieval town of Sarlat to the north, with its vibrant Saturday morning market and amazing restaurants often specialising in Foie Gras or truffles.
The whole area is a true haven for nature and sport lovers alike from horse riding and tennis to mountain-biking and golf, not to mention the number of hiking and fishing opportunities in the area. The Retreat really does offer access to the best of south west France.
What you should know…
- As well as six guests, two additional children can stay on request - please enquire
- Pets are welcome on request - the owner has enclosed part of the vast grounds for dogs to enjoy
- Air-conditioning is featured in the bedrooms only
- Walking distance to a restaurant however please note that the route does not have pavements and car hire is essential to be able to explore the surrounding area
This home is a part of our Sustainable Collection!
To be part of the collection, homes must meet a minimum of four criteria from our sustainable checklist, or three from the checklist and have a daily carbon footprint of 5kg or lower, based on full occupancy per bedroom. View the full collection here >
This home meets the following criteria from our sustainable checklist:
- Supports the local community (promotes local businesses)
- Protects and conserves local Heritage
- Promotes Sustainable Living (Recycling)
- Travel by Train possible
Property Features
Main Villa Interior (250m2 over two floors including a mezzanine level)
- Lounge and dining room (52m2) with open-fire
- Kitchen-diner (31m2), well-equipped
- Laundry room (basement)
- 2 x Double bedrooms
- Twin/double bedroom
- 2 bathrooms with showers and WC
- Separate WC
Outside Grounds
- Heated salt-water swimming pool (9mx4m), open April to October, with pool safety alarm
- Terraces
- BBQ
- Covered well
- 1 hectare parkland
- Secured area of parkland (200m2) for dogs
- Private parking for two cars
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Air-conditioning (bedrooms and living room)
- Heating
- Volleyball
- Football
- Table-tennis
- Badminton
- Bikes (these are kept in the garage so please ask the owner to use these)
- Basketball
- Washing machine
- Pool fence on request
Location
About the surrounding area of The RetreatThe Retreat is located in beautiful countryside in the Lot department, close to the Dordogne river. With wonderful views, just off a small country road, it’s a very tranquil place to stay. The local sleepy village (2km) has a hotel-restaurant (usually only open in summer months) where you can dine in the evenings.
You’ll find a bakery, butchers, restaurants, cafes and a lovely weekly market in nearby St Julien de Lampon (8km) or head over the Dordogne river to Souillac (11km) for a greater choice of large supermarkets. Be sure to visit the impressive Abbey Sainte-Marie in Souillac and even better combine with a trip to the atmospheric market on a Friday morning.
Head south to Gourdon (15km) with its honey stone coloured houses set beautifully on the hill and lovely warren of little streets. Beautifully preserved Rocamadour (32km) is another amazing place to visit, built on the edge of a cliff with the river at the bottom of the gorge.
The Dordogne department also hosts a wealth of beautiful villages and towns, many of them classed as France’s Plus Beaux Villages such as pretty Saint-Amand-de-Coly (41km), with the famous Lascaux caves nearby or the 13th century bastide village of Monpazier (59km).
Sarlat (27km) is one of the area’s most famous towns with its maze of medieval narrow streets, lovely squares and amazing restaurants plus a famous market on a Saturday morning.
Other magical day trips include idyllic Domme (23km) high above the Dordogne river with its amazing caves, La Roque Gageac (28km), a perfect picture postcard village backed by steep cliffs and Castelnaud-la-Chapelle (34km) just across the river.
Visit the topiary gardens at Eyrignac (22km) which opens up on Monday evenings in the summer for picnics and dance or Les Jardins de Marqueyssac (32km) set high above the river which also open on Thursday evenings in the summer when you can explore by candlelight.
The whole region is a true haven for nature and sport lovers alike offering a wide array of outdoor activities, from horse-back riding and tennis, mountain-biking, golfing and canoeing along the river, not to mention the number of hiking and fishing opportunities in the area. Children will love exploring prehistoric caves and parks and historic castles or even a magnificent hot air balloon ride across the stunning region. The more adventurous may enjoy tree-top activities in the forests near Sarlat.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Brive–Souillac/Bergerac
(33km/96km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Gare de Souillac
(13km) |
||
| Nearest Ferry Port |
Ouistreham-Caen
(640km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
(2km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Hotel-Restaurant in local village (summer only)
(1km) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
St Julien de Lampon
(8km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Souillac
(11km) |
||
| Nearest Town/City |
Souillac/Sarlat
(11km/27km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Résidence Souillac Golf & Country Club
(20km) |
||
Region
One of France’s most visited destinations, Sarlat-la-Canéda is a beautiful medieval town with a superb reputation for its gastronomy. Staying near Sarlat allows you to experience the town’s rich heritage alongside its fine cuisine, whilst also being close to idyllic villages and natural scenery of the Périgord Noir, never far from the meandering Dordogne River.
Exquisitely restored, explore the old town with its warren of winding lanes with inviting shops, restaurants and characterful cafes. Take a guided tour to truly appreciate Sarlat’s rich history dating back to medieval and Renaissance times – the small yet attractive Cathédrale Saint-Sacerdos de Sarlat, once a Benedictine abbey, is one of the main highlights of the town.
Spend time learning all about the region’s gastronomy, best experienced at the traditional outdoor market on a Saturday or Wednesday morning. Local specialities are of course served in Sarlat’s many excellent restaurants or bought in little shops across the town – look out for foie-gras, truffles, honey, chestnuts and walnuts. There is also an organic market on Thursday afternoons and a charming covered market near the cathedral.
If staying in the height of the summer, join in one of the region’s marchés nocturnes in nearby villages where you can enjoy local food amongst locals accompanied by good wine and music.
Elsewhere, visit the grand châteaux of the Dordogne (Château des Milandes and Château de Beynac are both less than half an hour away from Sarlat), stroll around elegant gardens (Les Jardins de Marqueyssac by candlelight is especially atmospheric) and visit picture-perfect riverside villages such as La Roque-Gageac and Domme, both classified as ‘Plus Beaux Villages’. Heading north instead, the famous caves of Lascaux are also within easy reach.
Hot air balloon rides are a great way to admire the landscapes of the Périgord Noir or simply canoe along the Dordogne River in glorious surroundings. There are of course wonderful walks, tree-top adventure centres and fantastic cycling routes including the 29km-long voie verte stretching from Sarlat to Cazoulès following a former railway line passing magnificent Dordogne countryside.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesThe area around the Dordogne river offers a wealth of activities for all ages and is very welcoming to families.
To keep the kids amused you could visit the toy museum in Souillac (11km), Musée de l'Automate or spend the day at Quercyland, a waterpark with all sorts of activities.
Kids may be fascinated by the famous Lascaux caves near the pretty village of Saint-Amand-de-Coly (41km) or visit the fascinating weekly market in the beautiful medieval town of Sarlat (27km).
There are picture postcard villages dotted along the Dordogne where you can hire canoes to paddle in idyllic surroundings.
Indeed, the whole region is a true haven for nature and sport lovers alike offering a wide array of outdoor activities, from horse-back riding to tennis and mountain-biking.
Children will love exploring prehistoric caves and parks and historic castles or even a magnificent hot air balloon ride across the stunning region. The more adventurous may enjoy tree-top activities in the forests near Sarlat.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Walk to Restaurant
- <1hr to Airport
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Badminton
- Bikes
- Soccer
- Pool Safety Feature
- Heated Pool
- Bicycles Provided
- Games Room
- Indoor Games
- Outdoor Games
- Table Tennis
- Fenced Grounds
Services Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Yoga Classes Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service 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 (payable locally):
- Maid service
- Chef (not available in July and August)
- Yoga classes (not available in July and August)
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 paid on arrival to the owners in cash in Euros (Pounds Sterling on request only) and refunded on departure subject to full inspection. Please note that access to the villa will not be possible without this payment. |
| Arrival time | 2.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 9.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €500 paid on arrival to the owners in cash in Euros (Pounds Sterling on request only) and refunded on departure subject to full inspection. Please note that access to the villa will not be possible without this payment. |
| Arrival time | 2.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 9.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, including pool towels. |
| Changeover day | Saturday. |
| Minimum stay | 4 nights in low season, 7 nights during all other periods. |
| Pets welcome? | Yes, on request only and with prior agreement with the owner. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Extra €150, payable locally. 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 garbage disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Pool heating charge? | No. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Other Ts and Cs | The pool is usually open from April to October. 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 | Stag/hen parties are not permitted. Weddings and other special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax payable locally (typically costs €1-€10 per adult per night- please enquire if exact amount is required). |
| Other Ts and Cs | Air-conditioning is featured in the bedrooms and living room only. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 6 people:
| Rental period | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 17th 2025 - May 3rd 2025 | - | - | £1,628 |
| May 3rd 2025 - May 31st 2025 | - | - | £1,357 |
| May 31st 2025 - Jun 21st 2025 | - | - | £1,764 |
| Jun 21st 2025 - Jun 28th 2025 | - | - | £2,035 |
| Jun 28th 2025 - Jul 5th 2025 | - | - | £3,391 |
| Jul 5th 2025 - Jul 12th 2025 | - | - | £3,663 |
| Jul 12th 2025 - Aug 16th 2025 | - | - | £4,748 |
| Aug 16th 2025 - Aug 23rd 2025 | - | - | £4,341 |
| Aug 23rd 2025 - Aug 30th 2025 | - | - | £3,934 |
| Aug 30th 2025 - Sep 6th 2025 | - | - | £2,306 |
| Sep 6th 2025 - Sep 20th 2025 | - | - | £2,035 |
| Sep 20th 2025 - Sep 27th 2025 | - | - | £1,764 |
| Sep 27th 2025 - Oct 4th 2025 | - | - | £1,628 |
| Oct 4th 2025 - Oct 18th 2025 | - | - | £1,289 |
| Oct 18th 2025 - Nov 1st 2025 | - | - | £1,628 |
| Nov 1st 2025 - Dec 22nd 2025 | £737 | £921 | £1,289 |
| Christmas & New Year | - | - | £2,035 |
| Jan 5th 2026 - Jan 29th 2026 | £698 | £873 | £1,221 |
| Jan 29th 2026 - Apr 4th 2026 | £737 | £921 | £1,289 |
| Apr 4th 2026 - May 2nd 2026 | - | - | £1,628 |
| May 2nd 2026 - May 30th 2026 | - | - | £1,357 |
| May 30th 2026 - Jun 20th 2026 | - | - | £1,764 |
| Jun 20th 2026 - Jun 27th 2026 | - | - | £2,035 |
| Jun 27th 2026 - Jul 4th 2026 | - | - | £3,391 |
| Jul 4th 2026 - Jul 11th 2026 | - | - | £3,663 |
| Jul 11th 2026 - Aug 15th 2026 | - | - | £4,748 |
| Aug 15th 2026 - Aug 22nd 2026 | - | - | £4,341 |
| Aug 22nd 2026 - Aug 29th 2026 | - | - | £3,934 |
| Aug 29th 2026 - Sep 5th 2026 | - | - | £2,306 |
| Sep 5th 2026 - Sep 19th 2026 | - | - | £2,035 |
| Sep 19th 2026 - Sep 26th 2026 | - | - | £1,764 |
| Sep 26th 2026 - Oct 3rd 2026 | - | - | £1,628 |
| Oct 3rd 2026 - Oct 17th 2026 | - | - | £1,289 |
| Oct 17th 2026 - Oct 19th 2026 | - | - | £1,628 |
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.
Reviews
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We had an amazing time
We thought this house was beautiful, amazing location and wonderful accommodation. It was within walking distance of some lovely restaurants & cafés and easy driving distance to small local shops or larger supermarches with lots of lovely open air markets to wander around. The cottage and grounds were spotless on arrival and well kitted out with a well-equipped kitchen , family rooms, laundry room and outside entertaining places including a wonderful swimming pool with an amazing view over the neighbouring countryside.
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We spent a very relaxing and enjoyable two weeks
We spent a very relaxing and enjoyable two weeks at the Retreat in September/October. The hosts were extremely welcoming and on hand if we needed anything. They really went the extra mile to ensure that our stay was enjoyable.
The property was very well equipped. We brought our two small dogs with us and felt relaxed as the property is dog friendly, enclosed and good walks were on the doorstep.
If you want to get away from the daily grind and spend time in a rural setting with amazing views then the Retreat is for you.
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Beautiful cottage
Beautiful cottage in scheduled location. Owner Phillipe is lovely friendly and welcoming.
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Lovely House
Lovely house. Worked really well for us with our two young children. Everything we needed was there and there was also ac downstairs in the lounge which was a real bonus with an 8 month old. Thee view from the garden is amazing.
Worth saying some elements have been change since the photos were taken but nothing massive.
Also worth noting that the garden (whilst absolutely lovely!) boarders to road and is not fenced in which isn’t ideal with little kids. -
Lovely property
Such a lovely gite. The owner was charming and visited on arrival. Beautiful setting and remote with plenty of space and pool to use. Would love to visit again
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Remote and beautiful house
Beautiful house in idyllic location. Views of meadows, forests and rolling countryside go on forever. Very remote but loads of lovely villages within 10 minute drive with everything you need for a stay in France. Perfect for local attractions like Sarlat, Rocamadour and chateaux and caves a plenty. The owner is really helpful and lovely. Enjoy your stay.
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Idyllic, total relaxation
We simply adored our stay at The Retreat. We loved the house and especially the garden. We could never tire of the view. The house had everything that we needed and we were very grateful for the air conditioning! Philippe kept the grounds and pool immaculate. The location in the little hamlet of Nadaillac de rouge was peaceful and exactly what we wanted. We will be back next year.
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Peace and Tranquility
Beautiful rural gite in a quiet location with easy access [20 mins max] to local town and supermarkets. Walking distance to a lovely hotel and restaurant that supplied bread and croissants required. Wonderful swimming pool and sunbathing area. Two nice sitting areas at the front of the gite for sunny breakfasts and at the rear for balmy sunny evenings. Also under cover which helped since we had a few storms so could still sit outside.
Very well equipped kitchen and very roomy and comfortable inside. -
Peaceful retreat
We had a wonderful stay - the house was perfect for us. Peaceful with lots of outdoor space and a great pool. The house is well equipped and comfortable with everything you need for a stay away from home. Philippe was very welcoming and helpful. We recommend this as a great option for those who want some peace and quiet whilst still being close enough for lots of great places to explore. We hope to return.
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Quiet stay in beautiful French countryside
We had an amazing week at this house. The house had everything we needed, and was clean and bright. We walked a short 12 mins each morning to the local hotel Chastrusse for fresh croissants and baguettes. The town of Souillac was a 15 min drive away, and had grocery stores, green grocers, butchers, bakers etc. Philippe was very helpful, answered any questions we had, and made us feel welcome. Communication was easy. We are so glad we found this house to stay, and would come back in a heart beat. Merci, Philippe!!!
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Beautiful house!
Beautiful house in such a peaceful beautiful area….great host.
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A nice property for us
Amazing views from the property, very quiet area with good access to amenities in Souillac. This is a lovely area of France, lots of villages & chateaus nearby to visit and only 10mins to the Dordogne river. The house itself is large and has everything you need, we did have some issues with the outside space during our stay which were a concern due to having young children & babies in our group, we were in regular contact with Phillipe during the start of our stay to try to resolve these. Great property if you are looking for a good base for exploring the area.
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Holidays in the heart of nature
We had a great week of vacation. The whole family was delighted. The house is close to all the beautiful sites. We will come back with pleasure. -
Magnificent house in its green setting
Beautiful house in its green setting! Philippe gave us a very warm welcome and responded to all our requests very quickly. Spacious house, well equipped, sublime setting, close to superb sites and very quiet environment! Ideal for a family and with a small baby. All amenities within 15 minutes and all sites within 30 minutes, restaurant 3 minutes away. We had a fabulous stay and would highly recommend!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
