Europe, France, Le Domaine de Foncaudière, Pércharmant, Bergerac

From hills to valleys, past rivers and lakes, through orchards and vineyards. Retreat to an oasis of calm at Le Domaine de Foncaudière – where you are free to roam a private estate, established centuries ago as an exclusive retreat from the responsibilities of the world beyond its ancient stone walls.

More than 250 years ago, wealthy landowners constructed the chateau and the accompanying hamlet on the foundations of a medieval castle. Since then, Le Domaine de Foncaudière has attracted ladies and gentlemen in search of solitude amongst the bountiful joys of the south-western French countryside.

Le Domaine de Foncaudière offers plenty of room for children to run about, and the absolute silence adults and couples desire. Just minutes from the lovely city of Bergerac, the estate is far from the crowds, yet close to the region’s major sites and world-famous wineries.

La joie de vivre existe encore! Your holiday at Le Domaine de Foncaudière begins with a beautiful drive over rolling hills, through the vineyards of Pércharmant/Bergerac.

The entrance to the hundred-acre estate is a long, winding drive through our woodlands. Through a clearing, a chateau appears in the distance, proud in the heart of the rich Dordogne landscape. And you suddenly become aware of a magical sensation – this is going to be a truly excellent vacation.

Built in 1733, the estate’s chateau has been lovingly restored with fully modern facilities, while maintaining its elegant country ambiance. It comprises a large drawing room, with medieval fireplace and period cabinets, which cleverly conceal a modern home cinema.

The classic library features finely carved wood panelling and an elegant fireplace. Adjoining this is a cosy reception room with a long dining table.
These rooms open onto a private formal garden with a stone fountain, fruit orchard, a delightful covered barbecue and dining area – and fabulous views!

The chateau’s suites feature satellite television, in-room refrigerators and en-suite bathrooms with full bath.

Just beyond the chateau are enchanting stone cottages in the form of a hamlet - each truly unique and completely comfortable with a rustic fireplace, large
dining table, fully equipped kitchen, a luxurious bathroom, a private garden - and lawns stretching wide and green.

Other facilities include a swimming pool, a library, bicycle hire and a restored barn filled with fun for the kids with honesty bar, table tennis, darts, etc.

Beyond the lawns are age-old paths that lead to untamed woodlands, organic orchards, a historic beech walk and flower and vegetable gardens.

Take a copy of the estate map and search for the cave where a medieval Catholic priest hid for his life during the religious wars.
Discover the man-made pond and the 100 year-old carp.

And make sure to ask us about the local farmer’s tips for finding the most coveted of wild mushrooms – boletus edulus or cèpes - and his secret for finding truffles growing at the foot of wild oaks!

FACILITIES

Services with a personal touch
Upon request, Le Domaine de Foncaudière’s chef will cater your events at the chateau using local specialties and the estate’s organically-grown produce.
He is also available as your personal chef, to prepare gourmet meals in your cottage. Ask about guided wine tasting tours and our special French cooking courses, taught by our international chef. And for the ultimate in relaxation, make an appointment with our aroma therapy masseuse!

Library
In the chateau, you will find an elegant period library dating back to 1750, with cherry panelling and a stately fireplace. The library's
terrace faces south, and overlooks the formal gardens and fountain. Feel free to borrow a book or two! Then step out into our formal garden for breathtaking sunsets and the starriest nights.

Swimming
Choose your lounge chair and prepare for a peaceful poolside afternoon. Our swimming pool measures 6 x 12m and is located halfway down a sloping hill, far enough from the cottages to reduce any noise - yet close enough to keep an eye on any children
splashing about.

Walks
Crisscrossing the estate are age-old paths for adventurous walks through woods and meadows. Take a deep breath and smell the refreshing scent of wild mint crushed underfoot. Walk quietly and
you will certainly spot deer, hare and foxes. Don’t forget a basket
for all of the cherries and apples and pears and figs and berries
and walnuts and mushrooms you’ll pick along the way. Delicious!

Bikes and kids
Mountain bikes are available for hire, so you can peddle beyond the estate. It's also the perfect way to visit the local wineries! And your children will love our restored barn filled with their favourite games.

Laundry
Guests are welcome to use the estate’s laundry facilities, for which
a small service fee is charged. Though we would completely understand if you prefer to dry your wash in pure air and sunshine
on our outdoor line!

Other estate facilities include bicycles, picnic areas, a swimming pool overlooking rolling hills and a restored barn with a bar and games room.
Crisscrossing the estate are age-old paths, for adventurous walks through woods and meadows.

COTTAGES

The cottages at Le Domaine de Foncaudière have been restored by craftsmen to preserve their original farmhouse character – oak beams, sandstone and timbered walls and wood and terracotta floors. Quality beds ensure a good night's sleep. Every cottage also has a cosy fireplace, satellite television and a luxurious bathroom. Outside are picnic tables, your own personal fruit trees, well-kept lawns, incredible views and the peace and quiet of idyllic nature.

Meals can be prepared with ease in the fully equipped kitchens, each with a proper stove and oven, quality utensils, a variety of pots and pans, dishwasher, microwave and refrigerator. You will also find a complete set of dinner and glassware. If you love to cook, ask about our organically grown herbs and vegetables and the local markets and regional specialities. And if you don’t feel like cooking, we’ll point the way to great local (and very affordable) restaurants. Each of the four cottages is unique, so read further for more details. If in doubt, we will be happy to suggest the most suitable cottage for your party.

Le Gros Dondon	La Fraise Soûle
Parfum de Rose	l'Ange Gardien

EMCO Travel LLC DBA E&M Travel is registered with the State of Florida as a Seller of Travel. Registration No. ST36902
California Travel Seller # 2079011-40
Privacy statement

Le Domaine de Foncaudière chateau features 3 luxurious suites of 40 m2 each, sleeping up to 3 - 4. Facilities include living area, spacious ensuite bathroom (all with bathtub, sink, toilet, bidet), satellite television, mini-bar, a comfortable double bed, and a separate (dressing) room with an extra single or double bed. Suite hire includes a full breakfast, featuring organic produce grown on the estate. Weather permitting, breakfast is served in the formal garden. Guests of our suites are welcomed with a bouquet of fresh flowers, picked from the estate’s gardens. From the suites, you have access to the chateau library and formal gardens. On chilly autumn evenings, we build a roaring log fire in our stately, medieval fireplace in the drawing room. Just step outside for the most dramatic starry skies – and listen closely for the lonesome cry our resident owls.