We, Jim and Susan Youden, just returned home to Nova Scotia, Canada after spending 3 relaxing and enjoyable weeks at La Penoterie La Jolie, a holiday gite in the Perigord/Dordogne area of France. The setting is idyllic, with the rolling hills, farmland, groves of walnut trees, fig trees, plum trees, grape vines, roses, gardens....
Our hosts, Jan and Elly, were very friendly and greeted us warmly on our arrival with an orientation to the property, then a glass of wine in the warm September sun. Elly also prepared a tasty hot dinner for our first evening. They are very knowledgeable of the area and offered helpful suggestions on areas to visit and numerous activities to pursue. We shared in a few community events with them, including a hiking tour and outdoor “repas.”
The gite is located about 4 km from the peaceful town of Montignac, on the Vézère River. Shops and grocery stores met all our needs. We hiked to the village of Auriac-du-Périgord and toured a local family castle and church. There are many local roads and paths suitable for daily hikes. A car is needed to visit the many historic sites - a walled town in Sarlat, prehistoric caves, museums, wonderful restaurants including a Michelin Star restaurant.....We enjoyed the delicious French cuisine and local wines and were never disappointed in any meal.
The gite, which we shared with my sister and her husband, was clean, well stocked, roomy and comfortable. Elly and Yan have done a very beautiful and tasteful conversion of the old barns and vineyard. My husband enjoyed and appreciated a daily swim in the clean, well maintained pool. We also enjoyed the presence of 2 cats, 2 goats and several hens, all of whom appeared interested in the guests’ visits to their pens. They contributed to the rustic and delightful atmosphere of the Gite.
We highly recommend La Penoterie to anyone wanting to visit this southern area of France. The setting offers peace and solitude together with as many cultural, historic and outdoor activities as you may desire.