Brilliantly Restored Villa in Aquitaine France – La Ferme de la Dronne

Imagine a place that was “brilliantly designed” and “a real gem.” Sounds pretty intriguing, right? Well, you’ll find that those are the exact words used to describe this vacation rental in France by previous guests who just loved it! Bordering the Dronne River, this self-catering accommodation near Chenaud has a peaceful and pleasant setting in the beautiful countryside. Incredible, stunning, and lovingly restored, this is just the place to spend the holidays in France!

2.6 hectares (6.4 acres): The chateau was built in the 17th century, with the foundation dating back to 1090. In the 18th and 19th century the chateau was enlarged with 2 more parts. All sections are attached to each other with 3-foot thick walls. The different styles of the various constructions are visible, which lends an attractive rambling aspect to the building. For example, in the 17th century the cellar, now used for wine storage, was the kitchen. The original details are still visible. The property is accessed via a quiet little road that connects two small villages. The graveled courtyard leads to the house, barn and garden. The backyard overlooks the winding Dronne River where there is a dock (4m x 7m) where guests can sit and to enjoy the riverside and the canoes passing by. The large garden is completely private; the north, south and west sides consist of typical large French walls; the river Dronne is on the east side of the property. The south of the property has a splendid view of the 12th century Roman church of Chenaud. There is garden furniture in both sunny and shaded areas of the garden. There are huge 100-year old oak and line trees, as well as apple, peach, cherry, prune and chestnut trees. New plantain trees have been planted. At the far end of the garden is a little pond.

The largest part of the chateau, an apartment named Silver Truffle, was built in the 18th century, and the second unit, La Floreale, dates back to the 17th century. Both sections are tastefully decorated with antique and exquisite fabrics, combined with pieces of modern European art. All bedrooms (except the two in La Floreale) still have the original fireplaces, but due to safety reasons they are not useable. The 19th century part is still under restoration and in use by the owners. Beside the main house is a large barn with two towers and an old well. La Vesunna is an apartment in the barn, which has been beautifully restored and decorated.

(275 m2)

Silver Truffle

Ground Floor: One enters the entrance hall with floor tiles and wooden beams from the 17th century. From this hall one can access the living area, a bedroom, and a bathroom with a washing machine and dryer. The living area includes a large fireplace (wood is available for an extra cost), a fully equipped kitchen, dining table and comfortable seating close to the fireplace. The decor is a combination of antique and modern art. The bedroom has a king-size bed (or twin-beds, depending upon the preference), 300-year old oak floors, built-in electronic safe, and a small wash basin. The bathroom, separate from the bedroom, has a WC, shower, sink, washing machine and dryer, and radiant floor heating.

First Floor: From the hall there is access to the 300-year old staircase to the first floor. From the landing there is a wonderful view over the Dronne River. From here there are three spacious bedrooms. The first bedroom, with a safari theme, has a king-size bed, and an ensuite bathroom with a WC, circle-shaped shower, sink and floor heating. This bedroom also has a built-in electronic safe. The second bedroom, decorated in red, has twin-beds which can be made into a king-size bed upon request, and an ensuite bathroom with WC, shower and sink. There is a built-in electronic safe. The third bedroom has twin-beds which can be made into a king-size bed upon request, and an ensuite bathroom with WC, shower, sink and radiant floor heating. The bedroom has a built-in electronic safe. There is central heating and each radiator can be individually adjusted.

(120 m2)

La Floreale

Ground Floor: On the ground floor is the living area, including a living/dining room, kitchen an entrance hall and guest bathroom. From the entrance hall one can access the guest bathroom with a WC and sink, as well as the washing machine and dryer, iron and ironing board (located in a closet). Also from the entrance one can access the living/dining room and the fully equipped kitchen. The living room is the oldest part of the chateau, dating back to 1626. The living/dining room decor is modern with antique elements and the room features a wood stove with the furniture surrounding the stove. From the kitchen you can access a large balcony where you can enjoy your breakfast in the morning sun. There is a built-in electronic safe.

First Floor: A staircase goes to the first floor, where there are two double bedrooms, each with king-size beds (or twin-beds, depending upon the preference). There are two ensuite bathrooms, each with a