The most stunning country homes and manor houses to rent in Dordogne

Bel Estiu is the ultimate countryside escape, inviting guests to leave behind the hustle and immerse themselves in the charm of rural life. This spacious stone farmhouse — fittingly named “beautiful summer” in Occitan — provides a serene retreat for families or groups of friends, comfortably accommodating up to 14 guests. Perfect for slow, nature-inspired vacations, the property features a lush garden, a swimming pool, a barbecue area, and even a badminton court for friendly matches under the sun.

For those craving a mix of nature and culture, the surrounding region is brimming with remarkable sights. Explore the iconic Lascaux Caves, stroll through the elegant gardens of the Manoir d’Artaban, discover medieval history at the fortress of Beynac, or venture into the Château de Commarque to see its fascinating troglodytic site and prehistoric cave. Adventure and tranquility go hand in hand at Bel Estiu.

As you pass through the gates of Château de la Bourlie, you enter a world where the art of living, contemporary creativity, and heritage preservation come together in perfect harmony.

Half of the château’s spaces are available for rent, offering 1,000 m² of contemporary-meets-medieval design, where luxury and comfort go hand in hand. The main wing boasts six refined suites, each with its own distinctive style, while the Fournial, the secondary wing, provides additional rooms, accommodating up to 18 guests. Every room tells a story, with interiors that celebrate culture and craftsmanship in equal measure.

Set within a 6-hectare park, the estate is a true haven of nature and tranquility. Guests can enjoy a beautiful saltwater pool and stay in Les Bories, a former tobacco barn converted into a stylish loft for four. To elevate the experience, bespoke services are available, provided by a discreet and attentive team. Guests can also savor exquisite meals prepared by a skilled chef, featuring fresh ingredients sourced from the château’s permaculture garden or local organic producers.

A traditional farmhouse dating back to 1789, transformed into an adorable countryside cottage. Designed to accommodate two to four guests, La Maisonnette des Vignes has been beautifully renovated by the lucky owners, making it a perfect retreat for city dwellers craving some greenery. Nearby, there are hiking trails, forests, and ponds where walkers can enjoy themselves to the fullest. The cherry on top? The hostess ensures that guests are well taken care of from start to finish, so all they have to do is relax! Whether for a week or for life, head to La Maisonnette des Vignes.

At the border of Périgord Pourpre and Blanc, a 70 m² barn built in 1800 has been transformed into a charming countryside home for five guests. What’s on the agenda for the stay? Swimming pool, forest walks, and a swing for the little ones. The perfect rural getaway.

It’s in the small Périgord village of Jaure, just 30 minutes by car from Périgueux, that Pauline and Geoffrey chose to settle down and start their new life. Former bakers from Lorraine, they set sail for Dordogne in 2021 after finding a small hamlet for sale. Among the buildings was a 70 m² barn from 1800, which they turned into a charming little countryside home. Nestled between fields and forests, the barn, named “Le Figuier,” welcomes five guests (or six if the sixth guest is a baby), ready to explore the Périgord. Holidays here unfold quietly, with time spent by the pool, walking in nature, and wandering through the cobbled streets of the many picturesque medieval towns found in the region.

True to its name, La Petite Grange Cachée is a hidden gem at the end of a lush garden. The stone house peeks out amid pumpkins (or tomato vines, depending on the season), tall trees, and dense shrubs. This charming cottage—perhaps a nod to the English affinity for this corner of France—offers a cozy retreat, perfect for a tranquil escape for two (or four, with children). Nestled on a hillside below the main property, it’s fully equipped with modern comforts, including a dishwasher, Wi-Fi, and microwave, plus a private 200 m² garden. Guests also have access to the shared vegetable garden, where they can pick fresh produce to add a farm-to-table touch to their meals.

After a day of exploring the wonders of the Périgord, there’s nothing better than curling up by the fire. The added perk? The shops and restaurants of Montignac-Lascaux are just a 15-minute walk away, making it easy to stock up on local specialties. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to admire the village’s listed church. For a day trip, the enchanting towns of Sarlat-la-Canéda and Cénac-et-Saint-Julien are just a 30-minute drive away, offering the perfect opportunity to soak in the region’s rich history and charm.