Chateau De Bardoulye

This Perigordian Chateau brims with the charm and nobility of its gracious 400 years of existence. The original features include a panelled dining room that was installed by the same artisan that completed many of the rooms at Versailles. The house is brimming with antiques, but maintains an atmosphere of a comfortable family home. Bardoulye sleeps 14 in 7 spacious bedrooms: five in the main house and two in the neighbouring guest house ‘Le Pigeonnier’. Enjoy absolute privacy in this meticulously maintained property set in 32 acres of gardens, woodlands, and tended grounds. Within the estate are a private pool and a tennis court. Table tennis is provided as well as immaculate grassy areas ideal for croquet and badminton. There are several lovely paths for walking within the estate.

The Chateau de Bardoulye is situated between the small market towns of Eymet and Issigeac and is easily accessible by air from the Bergerac airport or by train from Paris to Libourne. The area surrounding the house provides a plethora of activities including horse-back riding, canoeing, fishing and boat rides on the Dordogne river – all of which we are happy to organise for you. Many historic chateaux are a short drive from the house. First class wineries abound, tours of which are available almost daily. 

Chateau de Bardoulye was built in the reign of Henry IV and the grounds were awarded by the King to the family for loyal service at court. The house is situated halfway up a limestone hill above the Dropt River.

One enters the Manoir into the main hall which is in traditional Perigordian style. To the right is the Salon Cariele that still has its original tiles and is a superb spot for reading on a warm afternoon. The Salon also has a large table from which buffets are usually placed when dining on the east terrace of the house. Two further grand salons open out on to the east terrace which is an ideal place to relax and enjoy views over the woods and rolling hills surrounding the property as well as to dine on balmy summer evenings. The salons are comfortably furnished with a mixture of new and antique furniture including a grand piano. Walking straight through the entry hall to the north side of the house you will find a family room complete with satellite TV, DVD player, stereo, internet access, numerous board games (monopoly, chess, backgammon, Cluedo, etc.), a well-stocked library and toys for children. To the left of the entrance hall is the formal panelled dining room with seating for 14 and a magnificent fireplace. Further to the left is the large eat-in kitchen, with a table seating twelve, massive stone fireplace, dishwasher, and all other appliances and amenities.  The laundry room in back of the kitchen has a sink, washing and drying machines.

On the first floor are five luxurious bedrooms, all with ensuite bathrooms that have been finished to the highest standard. The bedrooms are furnished with antique armoires and chest of drawers; some from the original period of the house. Each bedroom has comfy chairs and writing tables. The ‘blue’, ‘yellow’, and ‘Chinoise’ rooms are equipped with King (European)/Queen (American) size beds.  The first floor landing has a cosy space for reading, writing or relaxing.  Each of the bedrooms and bathrooms has lovely views over different aspects of the Park.

The guest house called ‘Le Pigeonnier’ contains a large sitting/dining room with a TV/DVD player and stereo on the ground floor.  Also on the ground floor is a fully equipped kitchen (all appliances, including a dishwasher) and has been recently modernized. Both bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms. The first floor master bedroom is furnished with a queen size bed and divan. Washing and drying machines are located on the first floor landing. The second floor bedroom has two twin beds and a sleeping loft. Child cot and baby equipment are available upon request.

Within the magnificent grounds there are three outdoor eating areas: one in front of the kitchen that benefits from sun the entire day, the second on the east terrace shaded by several mature lime trees, ideal for afternoon tea and buffet suppers, the third is situated at the pool – adjacent to the guest house kitchen and is convenient for luncheons, and late dinners to enjoy the spectacular Dordogne sunsets. To the back of the pool and guest house is a rock garden with a pleasantly gurgling fountain that is a bastion of tranquillity.  It enjoys sunshine throughout the day, with a few well-placed trees for shade.

The heated pool and the area surrounding it is equipped with sun loungers, occasional tables, umbrellas and large comfy towels. The hard surfaced tennis court sits in a secluded area to the back of the property. Table tennis, croquet and badminton sets are provided. Gorge on beautiful peaches, apricots, plums, cherries, pears, apples and figs from the mature orchards in the park. The various paths throughout the estate are lined with blackberry bushes – providing juicy and delicious fruit. Enjoy walks through the grounds which boast lots of species of mature trees including oaks, cedars, chestnuts, magnolia, elm and Judea.

*Please note, locations shown on the maps are approximations only

Bardoulye is 19 km from the Bergerac airport which is serviced by several airports in Europe including London Stansted. The house is a one hour drive from Libourne train station, which is easily accessible from Paris. In addition, the house is an hour and a half drive from Bordeaux and two hours from Toulouse (both have major international airports).  Avis, Hertz, and Eurocar provide rental car services at Bergerac, Bordeaux and Toulouse airports as well as the Libourne train station. The nearest towns, about a 10 minute drive, are the historic bastide Eymet and Issegiac, well known for its colourful Sunday morning markets. Guests will find a range of restaurants in each of these towns as well as a post office, pharmacy, banks, petrol and well stocked supermarkets.

In the immediate area is a horse riding school, canoeing, fishing in the Dropt and boat tours on the Dordogne. Balloon rides can be arranged as a great way to get a panoramic view of the exquisite Dordogne valley.  A 10 pin bowling alley is 15 minutes by car. Two world class golf courses are within one hour drive. We provide maps of historic walks showcasing the natural beauty of the region and many of the churches, bastides and other building of note.  The valley is a regular spot for keen biking enthusiasts because of the gently rolling hills.  A spectacular son et lumeire show of the re-enactment of the 100 years war battle at Castillon is a short journey by car.

The region boasts the world renowned Bergerac appellation wine area which covers 12,700 hectares. Wine has been produced in the region for well over 400 years. Wine enthusiasts will find similar grapes to those found in the Bordeaux region including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec reds; Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadet whites.  Many vineyards welcome visitors and offer tastings. The formal ‘route de vin’ maps out a plan of the vineyards in the area.  The owner can arrange tastings and recommend favourite wineries. The Dordogne is the supplier of almost half of France’s fine produce including truffles, cepes and foie gras which is available at the Metairie adjoining the estate. 

The area is awash with sightseeing opportunities. Historical chateaux, gardens and bastides are abundant in the region – we provide guides not only to the major sights, but also to the gems that are off the beaten track. A favourite outing for guests is to the prehistoric caves at Lascaux about an hour and a half drive through magnificent emerald green countryside.  Ancient towns such as Sarlat and Perigieux are well known for their cathedrals and are excellent for shopping and antiquing. 

Cleaning is provided twice a week and linens/towels are changed once a week for guests staying more than a week. Additional housekeeping/cleaning services are available upon advance request. Babysitters can be arranged, again at some advance notice. A chef service can be provided only at if notified well in advance of the stay.

A shopping service is available if you would like us to stock the fridge before you arrive.  We can also arrange gift baskets or flower services for special occasions.

- Security deposit: £1000.
- Linen & Towels: Included.
- Energy costs: £100 per week.
- End of stay cleaning: Included.
- Arrival time: 4.00 pm.
- Departure time: 11.00 am.
- Pets: Only outside and in the kitchen area.
- Smoking: No.
- It is recommended that all guests take out insurance to cover against potential cancellation and any accidental damage caused during your stay at the property.

Came to celebrate my husband’s 30th birthday.  A fabulous time was had by all!  The house, location and the wonderful welcome were all appreciated, will no doubt be back in the future. A la prochaine!

Griffin House Party

We came to celebrate a 70th birthday and had the most wonderful party in this beautiful house.  Thank you. We’ve thoroughly enjoyed our birthday celebrations in your beautiful home and thanks to JC for his caring hospitality – an added dimension that was much appreciated.

Underwood House Party

We came to celebrate a 21st birthday with family and friends and had a fantastic time.  The house and gardens were beautiful; we saw a deer just outside eating fruit from the orchard!  We had lovely weather and so enjoyed swimming and tennis – a great house for playing ‘sardines’! An idyllic setting – thanks for a wonderful week.

The Robinson Family

What a fantastic place!  We had the most amazing time here. Lovely house, great facilities, and a lovely setting. Everyone has said this is the most brilliant house in which they’ve stayed abroad. We definitely hope to be back.

Winkworth Party