Family‑Friendly Rustic French Countryside Holiday Maison with Panoramic Views

Hidden down a quiet farm track in walnut country, Les Maratoux is a traditional stone farmhouse full of rural French character. Surrounded by rolling fields and open valleys, it’s a peaceful retreat where families – and pets – can relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of country life.

Additional Accommodation – The Dower

In the grounds, The Dower is a separate, self-contained gîte for two. Over two levels, it offers:
Ground floor: small kitchenette, wet-room shower, WC, and living area

Upper floor: a cosy bedroom tucked under the eaves, reached via a simple oak staircase. Decorated with warm colours and rustic touches, The Dower is a peaceful spot for couples or a quiet escape from the main house.

During July and August, The Dower is only rented together with Les Maratoux. At other times, it can be booked separately.


Layout

Step through the private garden into the kitchen, the heart of the home. Terracotta floors, exposed stone walls, and sturdy wooden beams create an unmistakably rustic feel. This is a home where you can cook, eat, and gather together without fuss – simple, comfortable, and full of charm.

Also on the ground floor, you’ll find:
A large bathroom with corner shower, WC, and bidet.
A twin bedroom with a small window overlooking the garden – perfect for children, and cool even on warm summer days.

Upstairs, the master bedroom enjoys open countryside views from two sides. Antique furniture and a seagrass carpet keep the room unpretentious and welcoming. The large ensuite bathroom has a shower and WC.

The salon is a large, rustic living space with a wood-burning stove and traditional fireplace. Original wooden floors are covered with a simple rug, and a sofa and chairs make it easy to relax. Double doors open to the garden via stone steps, where children and pets can explore safely while you enjoy the quiet valley views. This is a house that feels lived-in and loved, with space for everyone to unwind.


Sleeping Arrangements

Main House:
1 x double bed (180x160)
2 x single beds (180x90)

The Dower 1 x double bed (180x160) * see 'Special Offers' section.


Exterior

Outside, you’ll find a large, well‑kept garden where you can sit back and watch the local wildlife in complete peace and quiet. Across the lane lies a lovely, secluded orchard, shaded and entirely at your disposal — a perfect spot for a shady afternoon or a lazy picnic.

For outdoor living, there are sun‑loungers and a terrace for sun‑worshippers, a pétanque “boulodrome” for some friendly competition, and of course a barbecue for simple, shared meals under the sky.

Les Maratoux is pet‑friendly, and we’re delighted to welcome dogs and other well‑behaved animals. Please note that the garden is not fully enclosed, and there may be livestock grazing in the surrounding fields. Owners are responsible for supervising and caring for their pets at all times.


Local Area

Les Maratoux is tucked in the tranquil countryside of rural Dordogne, offering a peaceful base from which to discover the timeless beauty and traditional charm of the Périgord Noir countryside.

Scenic Nature & Rural Walks
Right from your doorstep you’re surrounded by rolling fields, woodland and quiet country lanes — perfect for walks, cycling and simply soaking up the natural landscape. A local circuit around La Chapelle‑Saint‑Jean takes you past gentle farmland views, a traditional village church and a historic wash house, with lovely panoramas across the valley.

Medieval Villages & Chateaux
Within a short drive are some of the Dordogne’s most captivating historic villages and castles. The village of Castelnaud‑la‑Chapelle is classified among the region’s prettiest, with narrow stone streets and a commanding medieval castle overlooking the Dordogne river. Explore the ramparts, enjoy riverside walks, or simply wander the cobbled lanes of this timeless settlement.

Nearby, the Château des Milandes, once the home of Josephine Baker, offers a fascinating glimpse into regional history along with landscaped gardens perfect for a relaxed afternoon visit. A little further afield you’ll also find other charming villages such as La Roque‑Gageac and Domme, each with their own unique character and panoramic viewpoints.

Rivers & Outdoor Activities
The nearby Dordogne and Vezere rivers provide scenic settings for canoeing, kayaking or riverside picnics. Whether you choose a gentle paddle or a longer river excursion, it’s a great way to experience the valley from a different perspective.

️ Historic Towns & Local Markets
A short drive takes you to Sarlat‑la‑Canéda, one of the region’s most visited medieval towns, famous for its lively markets, historic architecture and robust culinary traditions. Weekly markets in the broader area are excellent for sampling local produce — from walnuts and truffle‑infused delights to regional cheeses, foie gras and artisan breads.

Gastronomy & Local Flavours
This region of Dordogne is known for its gastronomy, with farm shops, markets and village producers showcasing the best of Périgord food culture. Guests can enjoy seasonal markets, regional wines, and the rich local cuisine that makes this part of rural France so beloved.

Whether you’re looking to explore ancient villages, enjoy nature at a gentle pace, or simply relax and savour the countryside atmosphere, the area around Les Maratoux offers a wonderful mix of scenic beauty, historic charm, and timeless rural life — all within easy reach of your doorstep.


Getting there

Les Maratoux is set in the heart of the Dordogne countryside and is best reached by car. The nearest major airport is Brive–Vallée de la Dordogne (Brive-la-Gaillarde), approximately 45 minutes’ drive away. Other convenient airports include Limoges (around 1 hour 15 minutes), Bergerac (around 1 hour 30 minutes), Bordeaux (around 1 hour 45 minutes) and Toulouse (around 3 hours).

As with much of rural Dordogne, car hire is essential, as there is no direct public transport serving Les Maratoux. Having a car also gives you the freedom to explore the surrounding villages, local markets, beautiful countryside, and historic sites at your own pace.

For guests driving from the UK, the journey from Calais takes approximately 8–9 hours, depending on traffic and route, making it a scenic and manageable drive through France.

If you’d like help planning your journey to Les Maratoux, please don’t hesitate to get in touch — we’re always happy to assist. Additional travel advice can also be found on our website under “Travel Tips.”


Accessibility

Due to the uneven floorings and stairs this house is unsuitable for those with mobility disabilities.


Registration and Compliance

Registration or Licence Ref: 94072239000017