When an architect and a former banker decide to leave Paris and start a new project restoring a farm and barn in the Périgord, there is a fair chance for the project turning into something special. And this is indeed an understatement. La Colombière has been carefully restored with a great sense for detail, using natural materials and relying only on local craftsmen. The place breaths authenticity. On the inside, both apartments are brand-new and equipped with a state of the art kitchen, a beautiful bathroom you would like to have at home and enough place to rest and have a good night sleep. The stunning barn separating the two apartments offers plenty of space for relaxing, reading or for children to play. The large terras offers plenty of shade, the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The swimming pool is disinfected with salt making the water so soft you want to stay in all day. A real gem in the large garden is the beautifully restored dovecote which is Olivia’s hidden retreat for reading while husband Alain is mowing the lawn or reading car magazines, a classic car-aficionado and collectioneur he sure is.
We had a wonderful time. Olivia and Alain have have redefined hospitality. We were welcomed with a glas of champaign, a basket with a bottle of Monbazillac, foie-gras and the best home-made Mirabelle confiture we ever had. Add some delicious Brioche bread or a crusty Baguette from the local baker and your in heaven. In France, eating is feasting. A sacred ritual, and to fully enjoy. You suddenly recall why the Italian word for tomato is pommo d’oro : they come in all colors and are so tastefully you would be prepared to pay in gold. And in the Périgord, the truffle is never far away, the cheeses are so delicious you want to relocate. At once.
Olivia and Alain do everything to make you feel at ease. They really enjoy having people around. They were very helpful in assisting us what to visit and when. Bastides, chateaux, gardens and beautiful villages scattered over rolling hills covered with sun-flower, vineyards and golden wheat : the Dordogne valley is such a beautiful place.
We will come back. Fair chance we ‘ll rent the two apartments. So, you better make haste ;-). Want to know more? Just ask them : olivia.gracco@gmail.com