The French poet Jean Cayrol spent many years at this townhome; perhaps you too will find inspiration in the enchanting walled garden. The historic 17th century main home (built of yellow honeystone) includes two additional residences - guests can retire to private quarters, and join one another to dine on the terrace beside the secluded pool. This family villa carries a sense of relaxed elegance; unfussy, comfortable furniture brings country relaxation into the city.
Here in the tiny hilltop town of Pujols overlooking the Dordogne river, the narrow rows of medieval houses and gardens will utterly charm you - and there's even a local restaurant down the road. In Pujols you’re close enough to bicycle to the market at Castillon la Bataille (6km) and bike are provided.
The UNESCO World Heritage site of Saint-Emilion which has been producing some of the world's best wine since Roman times, can be reached in under thirty minutes.
In addition, less than an hour’s drive will take you to Bordeaux, the heart of the eponymous wine region (and the site of the nearest airport). Following either the Dordogne or the Garonne rivers toward Bordeaux will lead you to wineries and chateaux by the dozens.
Features:
The main house has two bedrooms, one on the first floor with an ensuite bathroom and one which opens onto the garden and contains an expansive ensuite shower room.
There is a huge, fully-equipped kitchen/breakfast room with washing machine and dishwasher, an elegant drawing room opening into the garden and a dining room which seats 16, all with open fires. In addition, there is a contemporary studio-style annexe that overlooks the pool. The annexe contains two large double bedrooms (both with ensuite loos and a shared shower room).
The Independent Gite has two double bedrooms with a shared bathroom, kitchen and living room, overlooking the magnolia courtyard. There is a separate entrance to the gite from the road for added privacy. The gardens include a swimming pool (8m long), covered dining area with a salle d'ete that comes with its own kitchen with washing machine and dishwasher, and intimate courtyards. There is a pool table and table tennis in the salle d'ete and two bicycles in the garage. There are also an inbuilt BBQ and a portable one.
Location:
Pujols is centred in an area rich with historic small towns, picturesque villages and beautiful chateau. Castillon la Bataille is seven minutes away by car (well worth a visit for the Monday market), with Libourne (20 minutes away) having all major retailers. Beautiful Saint Foy Le Grand is 15 minutes in the other direction, and is renowned for its quaint streets, old houses and traditional market every Saturday.
Our personal favourite, though, is the hilltop village of Gensac, just 10 minutes away. Walks and cycle tracks radiate across vineyards in all directions and you don't need to go far to make some lovely new discovery! Typical relaxing holidays might include a visit to Chez Sylvie, a wonderful, informal restaurant/cafe on Pujols Square (a mere 12 euro for a sumptuous 4 course lunch, with wine!)
La Poudette restaurant just a short walk away down the hill - Michelin starred, this relaxed & informal rural retreat attracts visitors from miles around (and we are only minutes away!). For the quality of the food, it's amazing value. It's only a 12 minute drive to the memorable caves of Rauzan, and an exploration of Saint Emilion wouldn't be complete without taking in its narrow winding streets, ancient cathedral and many nooks and crannies.
Coastal & Beaches
The property is only five minutes' drive from a large freshwater lake with a beach, swimming and bar/restaurant. Arcachon (approximately 90 minutes drive away) contains some beautifully long, sweeping beaches and great surfing is located on the Atlantic coast.
Visitors to the region really have to see the "Dune de Pyla" – Europe’s highest sand dune, and a climb to the top (with optional picnic!) is a fantastic way to spend the day, and the views from the top are breathtaking. Visit the impressive lighthouse nearby, enjoy Aquadome or take a boat trip to really enjoy the coast from a different angle - and don't forget the many, many amazing local seafood restaurants!
Golf
20 mins away you'll find the Teynac and Cameyrac golf courses, and for the expert golfers Chateau des Vigiers near Sainte-Foyand and The Medoc courses (just north of Bordeaux) are less than an hour away.
Terms & Conditions:
Security deposit?
€1000.
Arrival time?
4.00 p.m
Departure time?
10.00 a.m.
Energy costs included?
Yes.
Heating costs included?
Yes.
End of stay cleaning included?
Yes. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit.
Linen & towels included?
Yes.
Pets welcome?
Not allowed.
Smoking Allowed?
Outside only.
Changeover day?
Friday. All other changeover days on request.
Pool towels included?
Yes.
Minimum stay?
7 nights. All other durations on request.
Other Ts and Cs?
Please note that the house is not suitable for children under the age of 12.
Smoking - not allowed
