As featured in the Daily Mail: Escape to Brit-owned chateaux.
Legend has it that in bygone days, fruit harvested from Le Jardin Du Château graced the tables of nobility in the majestic 13th-century château just across the way. Today, guests can savor stunning vistas of Château de Duras from the upper garden of their historic holiday abode in this extraordinary setting on the border of Dordogne-Lot et Garonne.
But it’s not only the close proximity to Château de Duras that makes this place extraordinary. The owners have meticulously restored this listed ancient monument to a remarkable standard, fashioning a stylish and inviting abode with an eclectic flair while honoring its storied past. On the ground floor, a spacious living and dining area seamlessly blend into an open-plan kitchen equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, perfect for culinary adventures or unwinding with a glass of local wine and a good movie. The second floor boasts another living-dining area and a superbly equipped kitchen with a wine fridge, providing ample space for large families or diverse groups of friends.
Each of the six charming en-suite bedrooms features unique design touches, from antique furnishings like the Arts and Crafts bed in one room to simple yet elegant styles in others, all adorned with linens from the White Company and Christy towels. At the pinnacle of the house, the private double bedroom in the tower offers solitude, while families will appreciate the adjoining twin and double rooms on the first floor, each with its own bath or shower room.
Step outside from the lower living area into the south-facing garden and marvel at the panoramic views of the Dropt valley through the trees. A tranquil gazebo provides a shaded retreat, while kids frolic in the swimming pool. As evening descends, gather around the al-fresco dining table by the Weber gas barbecue for a memorable meal by the softly illuminated pool.
From the upper garden, accessed via the second floor, follow a charming path that leads straight to the village of Duras in minutes. Explore its quaint lanes, sample treats from the local boulangeries, peruse fresh produce at the twice-weekly market, or savor a leisurely lunch at one of the eateries. The region is dotted with magnificent châteaux and picturesque bastide villages, including Eymet, Monpazier, and Monflanquin in the neighboring Dordogne region.
Venture further afield to Bergerac, with its medieval allure and Maison des Vins, or indulge in sweet wines at Château de Monbazillac and explore the idyllic town of Saint-Émilion. Bordeaux beckons with its vineyards and the impressive La Cité du Vin museum, offering a feast for the senses.
Surrounded by rolling hills, sunflowers, and fruit trees, this idyllic setting promises an unforgettable experience, whether you choose to explore nearby attractions or simply unwind in the comfort of Le Jardin Du Château.
Features:
Chateau Interior
Ground Floor
Open-plan kitchen-diner with large Falcon range oven and living area with TV (French channels). Doors opening up to garden terrace and pool
Separate WC
First Floor
Double bedroom with king-size bed and ensuite shower room with WC
Double bedroom and ensuite shower room with WC (adjoins twin bedroom)
Twin bedroom and ensuite bathroom with WC (adjoins above double bedroom)
Second Floor
Second kitchen with Falcon range cooker, wine fridge, and other high-end equipment
Living-dining area with TV (UK channels)
Double bedroom with ensuite shower room with WC
Double/twin bedroom with king-size double/twin beds and ensuite bathroom with bath, separate shower, and WC
Access to upper garden
Tower wing – Top Floor
Double bedroom with ensuite shower room with WC
Outside Grounds
Heated swimming pool (11mx6m) with safety alarm. Open approximately May to end-September. Solar covering to retain heat at night
Sun-loungers (x8) and shades
Gazebo with lounge area
Al-fresco dining table
6 burner Weber gas BBQ (near pool)
Upper garden with dining and lounge area
4 burner Weber gas BBQ (upper garden)
Facilities
Wi-Fi
Heating
UK Satellite TV
French TV
Fortnum and Mason picnic basket
Pool toys
Table tennis
Boules
Board games
Books
Location:
Le Jardin Du Château is nestled in the charming and historic village of Duras in the Lot-et-Garonne department, near the border of Dordogne and Gironde. Enjoy splendid views of the Dropt valley from the lower garden, swimming pool, and some bedrooms, as well as vistas of Château de Duras from the upper garden.
A quaint path from the upper garden leads directly into the village in a matter of minutes. Discover charming cafes, restaurants, bars, and shops such as bakeries, butchers, and grocery stores, as well as a lively Farmers market on Monday and Wednesday mornings. Don’t miss the Sunday morning oyster vendor!
Throughout the year, the village hosts various events, including delightful weekly night markets from July to early September, featuring local delicacies and live music. Wine enthusiasts will relish the Maison des Vins south of the village, while history buffs can explore the Château de Duras, steeped in history dating back to the 12th century.
Surrounded by undulating hills, vineyards, sunflowers, and fruit trees, the region is dotted with historic châteaux and picturesque bastide villages, many boasting weekly markets. Nearby highlights include charming Monségur (9km), 13th-century Eymet (20km) with its beautiful main square, riverside Sainte-Foy-la-Grande (22km), and Montcaret (26km) with its Roman villa excavations. Further afield, the enchanting Sunday market in Issigeac (43km) and the classified ‘Plus Beaux Villages’ of Monflanquin (57km) and Monpazier (66km) beckon.
Bergerac (40km) offers medieval charm, boutiques, restaurants, and Maison des Vins, while nearby vineyards invite tastings of local wines like Duras (Côtes de Duras) and Bergerac, along with the sweet wine of Château de Monbazillac (35km).
Wine enthusiasts should explore the idyllic wine town of Saint-Émilion (44km) and the vineyards surrounding Bordeaux (98km), including the captivating La Cité du Vin in the city center.
For outdoor enthusiasts, canoeing along the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, golfing, hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and adventure activities in Sainte-Colombe-de-Duras offer endless opportunities for recreation.
