La Maison de l’Arche

Formerly known as Matignon, La Maison de l’Arche dates back to the 16th century and played a key role in the rise of the Matignon family in Eynesse—a Protestant lineage known for its business acumen and strategic alliances. Determined to expand their influence, the family established a ferry crossing on the river, facilitating trade and local commerce.

“The story of the Matignon family in Eynesse reflects the social, economic, and cultural dynamics of their time. Their ability to adapt and invest in the future allowed them to leave a lasting mark on the region,” says Mathieu, who learned all this from his friend Laure Ciccione, whose family has lived in Eynesse for generations and has ancestral ties to the Matignons.

In 1972, Steve Vujacic first discovered the house during a summer stay with his godfather, then its owner. Forty years later, he and his wife Yvona acquired it, driven by a desire to preserve the soul of this home, rich with memories and history. With the help of Mathieu and Elisabeth, they embarked on a meticulous renovation, honoring its authenticity while introducing modern comforts.

La Maison de l’Arche is defined by its evolving architecture. “The main building has expanded over the centuries, with the addition of a central house and a vehicle passage—the arch. The Art Nouveau ceramic façade reflects the influence of modern trends of its time. The Matignon house, with its double-leaf door bearing the family monogram, showcases their ambition to project a modern, urban image. Parisian influences are evident in their architectural choices, reflecting a desire to stand out and adapt to societal changes,” explains Mathieu.

Inside, the house strikes a perfect balance between elegance and authenticity. Exposed stone walls, antique parquet floors, and vintage patterned cement tiles create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Thoughtfully selected antique furnishings blend perfectly with wallpapered walls and soft, muted tones. In the dining room, a piano invites spontaneous musical moments, while the patio and pool provide the perfect setting for candlelit dinners and long, leisurely afternoons. At the heart of it all is the kitchen, a space that feels straight out of a period film: copper pots hanging above a grand stove, diamond-patterned floor tiles, and a rustic wooden farmhouse table. A beautifully nostalgic space—equipped with every modern comfort. Now, all that’s left to do is start cooking!

At La Maison de l’Arche, vacation days unfold at a relaxed pace—bike rides through the vineyards, canoe trips down the Dordogne, and afternoon naps beneath the shade of centuries-old trees. Evenings bring the warmth of shared moments, whether gathered for lively dinners under the patio or cozying up by the piano in winter, embracing the beauty of life’s simple pleasures.

And the icing on the cake? Elisabeth ensures every guest feels truly cared for on Rue de l’Arche. For an additional fee, travelers can enjoy a completely stress-free stay—breakfast service, curated activities like Pilates, yoga, dried flower workshops, and musical theater, as well as canoe and bike rentals. Guests can even indulge in meals prepared by a chef, private concerts, or wine tastings. Almost anything is possible, so all that’s left to do is relax and enjoy!