The properties are perfectly situated between Bergerac (25 minute drive) and Bordeaux (40 minute drive), both of which are served by international airports with flights daily to and from a variety of UK airports. The beautiful sandy beaches of the Atlantic coast are just 90 minutes from the properties by car, and the famous vineyards and wineries of historical Saint Emilion are only 20 minutes away.
 
Our location offers easy access to beautiful sleepy villages, bustling market towns, the cosmopolitan hub of Bordeaux, and easy access to the Dordogne river just 1500m away.  Car hire is essential in order to enjoy what the area has to offer and secure private parking is available onsite.
 
local area
 
On our doorstep, Montcaret, or 'Moncaret la Romaine' as some call it, boasts an 11th Century church plus a Roman Villa, partly excavated and said to be one of the best in all of France. The mosaics are superb and these alone are well worth a visit. The cruciform gallery is said to have been the largest in the entire 5th century Roman Empire. Guided tours are available. 
 
In 1453, Castillon la Bataille was the last major battle of the Hundred Years war. Every summer in late July and early August, a spectacular floodlit re-enactment of that battle takes place. Spread over 16 acres and involving some 800 participants, 500 of whom are actors with 50 cavalry, this is a magnificently organised and executed show. The highlight is an intense two hour battle incorporating amazing stunts and pyrotechnics.  The festival runs for two weeks with the battles being re-enacted daily. Booking is essential for this exceptionally well organised event. If all this sounds too much for you you'll be glad to hear that after hostilities have ceased Castillon la Bataille returns to being a peaceful little town with an excellent market each Monday morning.
 
Saint Emilion is a truly beautiful village set into a hillside on the north side of the river Dordogne. The twelfth century town consists predominantly of old stone houses with shuttered windows and cobbled streets. Hidden beneath the town is Europe's largest underground church, a magnificent place hewn out of the soft rock by Benedictine monks in the ninth century. Louis XIV described the wines of Saint Emilion as the 'nectar of the gods'. At the foot of the thirteenth century chapel lies a small cave which is said to have been the home of the monk Saint Emilion. To this day infertile women come and sit on the stone slab reputed to have been his bed, in the hope of conceiving!  The first weekend in May sees about 20 of the local Chateaux open their doors to visitors and numerous concerts and wine tastings are held throughout the year. Particularly popular are the festivals of Fete de Printemps (June) and the Harvest (September). Recently added to UNESCO's World heritage list it would be a pity to come so near and not visit this beautiful town.

Other local activities include kayaking along the Dordogne River, the nearest location is just 10 mins from the property in Pessac.  A choice of journey length is available to suit all.  Many guests also choose to visit Lac de Gurson which is approximately a 25 minute drive from the property.  It offers a beach and safe swimming environment for children over looked by lifeguards along with cafes and changing facilities.  Entry is free and car parking is onsite.