Le Moulin de l'Abbaye ★★★★

Are you sitting comfortably? As we're just about to begin our story...

Once upon a time, in a village called Brantôme, one of the south France's most beautiful villages, there lived a mere 2,000 people. Amongst the prehistoric caves, Charlemagne's abbey, the stone houses and their dwellers; past the running waters, a 14th century right-angled bridge, an old windmill that still turns, and an 11th  century bell that still rings, you will find the beginning of our tale; Le Moulin L'Abbaye.

Interlinked by rich greenery, incessant flowing waters, and air of romantic charm, are three historic buildings: Le Moulin, La Maison du Meunier, and La Maison de L'Abbé. We begin with these beautiful houses, positioned on an isle in the “Venice Verte”; the green Venice of Périgord, Dordogne. Each house comes with its own story...Le Moulin, which once upon a time milled the village's grain, weaved their wool, and even was the first to provide electricity for the village. Next is La Maison du Meunier, the miller's house, which sits looking out onto the river, in front of ancient caves. And finally, La Maison de L'Abbé, the Abbot's house, dating back to the 13th century, which was once home to Pierre de Bourdeille, abbot and lord of Brantôme. The Abbot's house is situated just across the river, over the right-angled bridge of Pont Coudé, facing the other two buildings. Inside this combination of grand houses there are 20 exquisite bedrooms decorated with colourful reds and yellows, cosy and familiar enough to make you feel as if you are spending time in your own country home. Outside, though the waters run and the birds sing, time comes to a standstill. The surroundings will transport you back to the time of fairytales, of princes and princesses, so let yourself unwind in complete serenity.

Now, in the village of Brantôme, traditions and customs are honoured and well-kept, and to a spectacular advantage. The natural wealth of the land lends its produce to delicious southern French cuisine, delightful in taste and VeryChic in presentation at Le Moulin de L'Abbaye's restaurant. But there's even more to this story... you can reach two other restaurants by foot, with the same high level of cuisine. Just over the bridge of Pont Coudé, have a try of Les Bistrots Périgourdins: Le Fil du temps and Le Fil de l’Eau. At Le Fil du Temps enjoy traditional braised meat dishes, slow- roasted in a customary oven, and, if that's not enough to whet your appetite, over at Le Fil de l’Eau you can enjoy traditional seafood dishes on a riverside terrace, immersed in the natural environment. Just ask back at the hotel for any reservations that you wish to make.

Make more of your wishes come true when you explore the area; the regional park is just round the corner with acres in which to explore and wander around. Lose yourself in the greens, and purples, and yellows, and reds of the flowers and plants. If you're looking for a more adventurous fairytale try a little mountain biking, horse riding or canoeing. Or even take a trip back in human history, back to the interglacial age by exploring the Palaeolithic caves.

Voila, the beginning of our fairytale story, but it's up to you to write the rest!

*If choosing the half board option, you will be given a Menu de l'Abbaye, drinks excluded (this menu is subject to change depending on seasonal produce):