I feel a fool as I drive through the stunning countryside, past elegant French manors, rolling hills of vineyards, occasionally catching glimpses of the majestic, green river. I cannot believe that in all my travels I have never visited the Dordogne before! It is truly magnificent! I now fully understand why so many have fallen in love with it. It embodies all the beauty, elegance and romance of classic French rural charm.
I am starry-eyed by the time I reach the hotel, and when I see where I am to be staying I almost melt with sheer delight. It couldn't be more perfect! The rough stone walls, the swooping tiled roofs, the miles and miles of picturesque landscape falling away in all directions, the dusky light and deep serenity seduce me immediately. Then, in case any part of me was left unconquered, the congenial welcome by owners Brigitte and Jean-Louis Viargues, do the rest. I was almost overwhelmed with such kind and personal hospitality and felt rather like a guest in their special home than a visitor at a hotel.
The interior décor of the hotel is tastefully done in soft shades of pastel, bright wood panelling, open fireplaces, exposed beams and large windows that look out onto the spectacular views in all directions. The bedrooms are done with that same simple, yet polished taste and I am delighted to see I have my own private terrace to take in those captivating vistas. That night, I dine at the hotel restaurant and am once again wooed by the mouth-watering seasonal menu, made with organic, fresh local produce and clearly cooked with flair and passion.
After a hearty breakfast the following morning, I find myself wandering down to the ancient cellars where they gleefully guide me to a wonderful little Home Cinema. A classic film projected in an old cellar below a gorgeous rustic house perched on a hill overlooking the Dordogne with a glass of wine in my hand... Yes, I could get used to this. Whatever your taste may be, there is plenty to entertain anyone and everyone at La Chartreuse Du Bignac.