Domaine Claria

Dating back to the late 1600s, the main château is said to have been built by a local duke for the woman he loved (and later married), a cousin of King Louis XIV. Its rich heritage remains with high ceilings, spacious rooms and many original features. It feels like an authentic family home, simply yet comfortably furnished, with six pretty bedrooms sleeping up to 16 guests. Arrange a cook to prepare meals as you relax in the salon while children play upstairs in the large games room with toys, ping-pong, board games and a little puppet theatre. The château terrace is a grand spot for al-fresco meals, whilst the 16m swimming pool sits proudly in the garden below with wonderful open views of the Lot-et-Garonne countryside.

The neighbouring 17th-century stables have been charmingly restored to sleep a further 16 guests across three dwellings. In an L-shape, each has its own open-plan lounge, dining and small kitchen area. Stables I and II each have three bedrooms and two bathrooms (one en suite) whilst Stables III has two bedrooms and a bathroom. All exude rustic charm and simplicity with characterful décor, furnishings and a restful ambience.

There is a second swimming pool near the stables, and each stable dwelling has its own terrace and barbecue. Look out for splashes of summer colour, trees and lavender across the glorious open grounds.

The domaine sits on a country road leading to a picturesque village just 1.5km away. Discover half-timbered houses, medieval lanes, a weekly Farmer’s market and a handful of restaurants and shops. Admire the Renaissance castle before strolling by the gorgeous lake with picnic benches.

Appreciate the beauty of the Lot-et-Garonne as you visit bastide market towns such as Castillonnès, Miramont-de-Guyenne, Villeréal and Monflanquin. Canoe or kayak along the Dropt and Lot rivers and browse atmospheric markets for delicious local produce (tomatoes from Marmande, Tonneins ham, Agen prunes steeped in Armagnac and more).

Wine-lovers can head to the vineyards of Duras, Château de Monbazillac and even Saint-Émilion, or spend time exploring the Dordogne with nearby Eymet only 9km away alongside idyllic Issigeac and Monpazier. Finally, soak up the splendour of Bergerac’s old town and architecture before taking a traditional gabarre vessel along the Dordogne for a truly relaxing day out.