Vacation Rentals by Owner

The Best in Perigord!

Guest: Lisa (Portland, Oregon)
Date of Stay: 04/30/12 Review Submitted: 05/18/12

We spent a most delightful week at La Maison de Marc, and can't recommend it highly enough! This is a most charming farmhouse in a beautiful part of Perigord. Catherine and Maxence have done an excellent job up-grading this home with all the modern conveniences while retaining all the charm. Everything is beautifully and thoughtfully appointed. The house has everything you may need. The pool area is beautiful and we made great friends with the donkey and sheep. Our thanks to Catherine and Maxence for making our last week in France the best part of our vacation. We hope to be back soon!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Delightful Dordogne Home

Guest: Americans Living in London (London, England)
Date of Stay: 04/06/12 Review Submitted: 04/24/12

My wife and 2.5 year old daughter and I had a lovely holiday at la Maison de Marc during Easter 2012. Maison de Marc is one of three guest houses on a spacious and green property; it was lovingly converted from a chicken coop into a two bedroom house with a cosy living room and well-stocked kitchen. The absence of internal stairs makes the property a good choice for families with small children. The region is especially well-suited for a relaxing vacation: even when it is cool and rainy there is plenty to do--pretty drives through small villages, bountiful regional markets, and interesting caves. Yet there is nothing so urgent that you can't also take a few days to relax at the house, go for a walk through the woods, or read a book. The owners/hosts took time to recommend day trips and restaurants, and even lent us a highlighted map of the area. The highlight for our daughter was the resident donkey and sheep, two very friendly animals who were always eager to see us, probably because we provided them with a steady stream of day-old baguettes. She also enjoyed going on bike rides with us on the provided bikes (in very good condition), sitting high in a child seat over the rear seat. We look forward to returning to Le Maine in the future, and can happily recommend the holiday rental to guests considering a trip to the Dordogne.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect!

Guest: Mark (Toronto, Canada)
Date of Stay: 02/24/12 Review Submitted: 03/31/12

I'm not sure where to start with my review of Le Maison de Marc and of Cubjac, we just loved everything about it! Not knowing a lot about the Perigord area of France we found there was lots to do and, being an outdoorsy family, loved the easy access to great hiking, walks and nature all around us. It's an amazing place and area for children. The accommodations are amazing and it is easy to see the care and attention Catherine and Maxence put into every detail. It is easily the best place we have ever stayed at through VRBO. We definitely want to go back again!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Art de Vivre in Maison de Marc Sept.27-Oct.5,2011

Guest: Kathleen & Alan (Albuquerque, New Mexico)
Date of Stay: 09/27/11 Review Submitted: 10/23/11

What can we say that hasn’t been said by the other guests? We concur with all the positive comments. We have rented houses many times over many years in all regions of France and the US and this was absolutely the best of them in every way. We always hope for the best, but aren’t surprised when the best isn’t quite what we get. This time we got it! During our stay, we felt more like house guests than ‘tenants’. Upon arrival we found wine, bread, cheese, and strawberries to welcome us. The house was spotless. It and the other unit I observed (for possible future use by friends or family) were exquisitely renovated by Maxence and Catherine, and it was apparent that they were both very talented and artistic as well as warm and welcoming hosts who were helpful in every way they could be. Maxence even shared his secrets for buying (at the local market) and preparing magret de canard! Our first try wasn’t bad. Living in Maison de Marc for eight days was simply wonderful. The house was charming and chic. The house, bathroom and kitchen’s renovation was well designed and executed -- perfectly combining historic rustic features and modern convenience. The little garden was private, tranquil-- a great place for reading, drinks and our light evening supper. The internet worked perfectly (a necessity for us). We even became fond of the ‘calls’ of Zebulon the resident donkey. Having bikes at the ready made it easy for us to have a nice bike ride on some mornings, ride to the local boulangerie, or to the market on Friday. There were plenty of safe roads on which to ride as well. We loved the area. Having rented a house on the Fenelon estate south of the Dordogne several years ago, we explored closer to Cubjac this time. Perigueux market was fun and lunches at L’Essential and Ferme St. Louis were excellent. The new Vesuna Gallo Roman Museum that houses a Roman villa is the best of that period we have seen. Further afield we enjoyed the Jardins du Manoir d’Eyrignac and the lovely lunch we had on the terrace there. The local Bergerac rose was terrific on the unseasonably hot days of late September . Communications with Catherine via email were prompt and payment made with ease via Paypal (as opposed to the wire transfer method that requires more cost and a trip to a bank). The listing and photos were very accurate. Being there is even better. Everyone seems to say “we will return”. We certainly hope to be among them!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great place to stay

Guest: Guy, Helen & Alex (Perth, Western Australia)
Date of Stay: 07/09/11 Review Submitted: 09/02/11

Cannot recommend Le Maine highly enough. We spent two weeks in the converted hen house and could not have wished for a better introduction to French country life. Hosts Catherine and Maxence are welcoming and full of information about the local area and further afield. The Maison de Marc is rustic and comfortable with all the mod cons. Perigeux is a half hour drive away and the old part of the city on market day is a must. Even Cubjac, without a castle or a cobblestone in sight, will start to grow on you. We will be back.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

An exceptional place to stay

Guest: Janet (Edmonton, Alberta, Canada)
Date of Stay: 05/29/11 Review Submitted: 06/25/11

Our stay at Le Maine was the highlight of our trip to France. La Maison de Marc was perfect for us. Beautifully restored, it is immaculate, well appointed and fitted with every modern convenience. The lovely garden is surrounded by old growth trees. The birds sing. Peace and tranquillity reign here. When staying on-site, there was always the opportunity to relax with a leisurely breakfast or read in the garden, take a walk in the woods, a swim in the pool or a visit to Zebulon the resident donkey. The cooking lesson with Jean-Francois was a wonderful chance to learn and experience first hand the cuisine of the Perigord. We found the surrounding area exceedingly beautiful and rich with historical interest. Catherine and Maxence were wonderful hosts and did so much to enhance our exploration of the region with helpful information on things to see, places to eat etc. We particularly enjoyed our visit to Beynac and to the market in Perigueux. Le Maine is a very special place. We look forward to visiting again and sharing this wonderful experience with other members of the family.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Richard and Mika, South Australia

Guest: Richard and Mika (South Australia)
Date of Stay: 05/14/11 Review Submitted: 06/10/11

Fabulous! We stayed at La Maison de Marc with our young boys for a week and thoroughly enjoyed our holiday. Many thanks to our hosts Catherine and Maxence for making us feel so welcome, helping us plan our day trips and creating such a wonderful setting. The property is beautifully maintained and presented. There are lots of great day trips if you can bear to drag yourself away from the property, we especially enjoyed the caves at Tourtoirac, the market at Perigueux and the chateaux at Hautefort and Castelnaud. But back at the property we all enjoyed the pool area, the gardens and woods, and of course Zebulon the donkey and the other animals, a hit with our children.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Refreshing, rejuvenating stay in Perigord!

Guest: expatsatlarge (Warsaw, Poland)
Date of Stay: 05/07/11 Review Submitted: 06/04/11

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Le Maine. The Maison de Marc was perfectly comfortable for us and our two small children. Catherine and Maxence thought of every convenience, having a baby crib and high chair in the house waiting for us. They even put some baby food in the fridge! We so loved the property that we spent most of the time lounging in our private garden or wandering through the surrounding woods. When we were ready to venture out, Catherine and Maxence gave us excellent recommendations on where to eat and what to see nearby. No guide book needed, though there are plenty in the desk drawer for those so inclined. We heartily recommend Le Maine to anyone who is looking for a peaceful, beautiful retreat in Dordogne!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Beautiful Le Maine

Guest: Laurie and Anita (Australia)
Date of Stay: 04/30/11 Review Submitted: 07/24/11

Our stay at Le Maine was wonderful. Our hosts, Catherine and Maxence were delightful. They were very interested in making our stay relaxed and enjoyable. They were generous with their time, sharing with us a taste of life in the Perigord. Staying in Maison de Marc was a pleasure. It was clean and comfortable, very tastefully decorated and every comfort was provided. Le Maine is well located, close to the many attractions of the region, whilst offering a quiet and gracious country setting within walking distance of our morning baguette! We would definitely stay again. Thank-you Catherine and Maxence.

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Five Stars Are Not Enough

Guest: Carolyn and Bill (Sandwich, Massachusetts, USA)
Date of Stay: 10/06/10 Review Submitted: 10/16/10

We would rate the Le Maine experience ten stars if we could. If you have a vision of what the French countryside should be this property will more than fulfill your every expectation. Catherine and Maxence, a most warm and welcoming couple, have with great taste and sensitivity combined the charm of the past with every modern comfort and convenience in the three cottages that are now available to rent. In addition to their gardens, the pool, and the extensive woodland paths, you are surrounded by the lush and gorgeous rolling terrain of the Perigord countryside that include many romantic villages along meandering rivers and local foods and wines that Catherine and Maxence are happy to help you find. In short, this place is the best, in every way possible. Don't hesitate, book now, you will be so glad you did!

Recommended for:Age 55+, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A wonderful experience

Guest: Kate and Tim (Edmonton, Alberta)
Date of Stay: 10/02/10 Review Submitted: 10/19/10

We have rented many homes and apartments throughout the world, and this ranks as one of the best. The "farmhouse" was exceptionally clean, and careful attention was given to every detail: white fluffy towells, well equiped kitchen (with good appliances), fresh flowers on the table, a welcome bottle of wine from the area and many other details that made the stay special. Max and Catherine are wonderful hosts, and helped us locate (and provided maps for) great walking trails in the area. All in all a wonderful base for exploring the area.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Vacation Dream Come True

Guest: Issy (New York City)
Date of Stay: 10/01/10 Review Submitted: 10/06/10

Not only were the accommodations outstanding but the welcoming and travel assistance of Catherine and Maxence were invaluable. The restored farmhouse far exceeded our expectations it had all the modern comforts of home very inviting and very easy to get to nearby activities and attractions. Make sure to take advantage of the wonderful fresh farmers markets and restaurants that Catherine and Maxence recommend. My husband and I look forward to our next visit.!

Recommended for:Romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Warm and inviting atmosphere, delightful hosts, exsquite surroundings, impeccabley appointed

Guest: trishcollins (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 09/29/10 Review Submitted: 10/14/10

Our four night stay in "la Cuisine d'Alice" was the highlight of our 23-day trip to Europe. Catherine and Maxence have created a "picture-postcard" setting full of French country charm. The property is stunning, and our accomondations could have easily been from the pages of architectural digest. The gardens were lovely, and the setting tranquil. Our one bedroom unit -- "la Cuisine d'Alice"-- were spacious, very clean, exceptionally well-equiped, and beautifully decorated, with extraordinary attention to every detail. All the appliances were well-maintained and worked without problem. Only the highest quality linens and towels were provided. Maxence and Catherine were extremely helpful, offering terrific sight-seeing and restaurant advice. They have obviously invested a significant amount of their love, time and energy in ensuring their guests have the best possible experience while staying on their lovely estate. The location is perfect for visiting the beautiful Dordogne-area highlights, including the Lasceax Caves, the Hauteford Chateau, the UNESCO heritage Sarlat market, the cliff-side village of Rocamadour, and roman ruins in Perigueux. It's the perfect location to enjoy the entire Perigord region, with it's winding roads, pastoral views and rolling hills. The village of Cubjac (a few minutes by foot) is charming and welcoming with an excellent bakery, and a terrific pizza restaurant. Excellent restaurants are all within an easy drive, many offering the area specialities of duck. I would highly recommend a stay at this wonderfully charming location, if only to meet Zebulon (the mule) and Rothschild (the sheep). My only regret -- we should have stayed longer than four nights.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Simply the best!

Guest: Brian and Susan (Victoria, B.C., Canada)
Date of Stay: 06/16/10 Review Submitted: 07/03/10

Having returned recently from a 12 day trip to Le Maine with the feeling that this was one of the best holidays that we have had, we deliberately delayed writing about our impressions until we settled back at home to see if the glow would dim. Having given it some time, we both agree that we feel more strongly than ever that this, our sixth trip to France, was the probably the best vacation that we have had! This gracious, immaculate accommodation is a jewel in a region abundant with exciting villages, castles, prehistoric sites and natural beauty, The people of the region were noticeably friendly and helpful as well as patient and encouraging in our attempts to speak French, Not enough can be said about the hosts, Catherine and Maxence, who should take a large amount of the credit for our successful holiday. They were welcoming, friendly and helpful with directions as well as recommending, sights, markets and restaurants. This would be a wonderful place fo extended families or friends now that there are 3 separate accommodations available. We intend to go back soon and would like to go back with other family members, but also for a longer period of time. This place is just too good not to be shared with others.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Winter Stay in the Perigord

Guest: i4sa0b4el (Edmonton)
Date of Stay: 02/13/10 Review Submitted: 05/01/10

Bonjour Catherine et Maxence, When we left Cubjac near the end of February your slow spring was just beginning. But even in winter the Cubjac countryside was beautiful. The woods were mossy and quiet; the land was both rugged and accommodating; the villages were various and interesting. It was a part of the Perigord we did not know and we thoroughly enjoyed (with your assistance and encouragement) getting to know it. And then there were Le Maine and la maison de Marc to which we could return at the end of each day! La maison de Marc was perfect. It is comfortable, clean, equipped with everything a traveller could need, and so much more than merely functional. It is like living in the home of a friend who shares similar interests and who has excellent taste. We look forward to returning and will certainly recommend Le Maine to friends. Not the least of its attractions for us was the opportunity to meet you both and to begin an acquaintance which we would welcome an opportunity to develop. Your genuine interest in your guests is only matched by your deep regard for the home you are making for yourselves and others. Perhaps this is why you succeed in making Cubjac a home away from home for all who stay there. Have a wonderful summer. Give Zebulon a few crusts and give our regards to Christophe. Nous vous embrassons, tous les deux. Kathryn and Rob

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A truly French experience

Guest: Kellie And David (Melbourne, Victoria, Australia)
Date of Stay: 01/14/10 Review Submitted: 08/15/10

When we decided I would again journey to France the first action I took was to contact Catherine and Max to ensure I could again stay with them at Le Maine. Having stayed a week in May,2006 we still remember this amazing experience and knew we would love to sample some more, and in particular catch up with these wonderful hosts. My second visit was as great, if not better than the first. The house so familiar and it seemed I was never short of company, whether it be my hosts, their cat or the lovely donkey. The Dordogne in winter was just as amazing as spring and I was treated with snow covered fields. As I travelled alone Catherine and Max asked me to join them at the Saturday market in Perigueux and I must say that was quite a treat. They shared their knowledge of local produce, making sure I sampled many wares. The house has all you need for a comfortable stay, is warm and inviting. From what I saw of the newest gites, they will be just as beautiful. Please do yourself a favour and experince this delightful vacation destination....you will not be disappointed, I promise

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Bryce & Fonda (Paris, France)
Date of Stay: 11/03/08 Review Submitted: 11/03/08

Hello Catherine & Maxence we would like to thank you so much for your lovely farm home and your hospitality! It's nice to be able to go on vacation and feel right at home! We settled in like we were part of your family! The information you provide us was very helpful on places to visit and things to see. Our five year old son had a wonderful time, especially feeding Zebulon the donkey! :) This will be a vacation we will remember always! The only thing we could have added was more time with you, Catherine & Maxence! We plan on seeing you again! Thank You! Bryce, Fonda and Carson94

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Guest: Ross Taylor (Perth Australia)
Date of Stay: 07/15/08 Review Submitted: 07/15/08

'Le Maine' was just 'perfect'. We had stayed in the Dordogne region two years earlier in the town of Puy L'Eveque and we loved it...but this was even better! A delightful setting, wonderful hosts and easy access to all the wonderful sights of this region. Imagine just a short bike ride to the local village each morning to collect fresh bagets and pastries for breakfast; walks in the nearby woods; lazy late afternoons sipping a nice wine as evening decends. The cottage was a delight. Cosy, friendly yet functional. It almost 'broke our hearts' to leave this beautiful home. We thoroughly recommend 'Le Maine' in the village of Cubjac and if any reader would like some detailed comments and photos just email us and we will amaze you with the enchanting beauty of this region and this lovely home-away-from home. Thank you Maxence and Catherine for allowing us such a perfect week.

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Guest: Debby B. (Tucson, Arizona)
Date of Stay: 06/17/08 Review Submitted: 06/17/08

We found the cottage to be a charming, quiet and fun place to stay. We booked a week in late May, 2008. We loved the kind and sophisticated owners, who were always generous with their advise. Their cats and donkey were our new friends. The cottage is immaculate, well-equipped for a serious cook and private. The bed was comfortable. The bathroom was lovely and looked out over a private garden. The cottage was an ideal base to explore SW France. Nothing at all negative to say. Anyone who stays is lucky. We are very discriminating travelers, used to 4-star or better accomodations and this cottage exceeded our expectations. The photos on their wen site are all good images of what you will find.

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Guest: Richard and Arlene (Duxbury MA USA)
Date of Stay: 11/01/07 Review Submitted: 11/01/07

Cubjac is a real working village and along with its shops and weekly marketmake for an authentic place to stay. Le Maine is a superb property and the rental cottage exceeds the description in VRBO. The kitchen and bath are first class and the terrace and back yard are private and lovely. Catherine and Maxence are the best of hosts going way beyond expectation in terms of support and friendliness. The combination of friendly atmosphere, agrreat cottage, lovely surroundings and nice village, well what more could you ask for.

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Guest: David Houghton (Ottawa, Ontario)
Date of Stay: 10/25/07 Review Submitted: 10/25/07

Our stay at Le Maine was perfection. Beautifully located in the centre of the Perigord, the cottage was our oasis at the end of our busy days. The kitchen, bedroom and livingroom (with fireplace) were fabulous and the bathroom must be the best in all of France. We loved the terrace with its barbecue and enjoyed several meals with local wines; Our hosts were very thoughtful, enthusiastic and helpful in guiding us to the best of the local sights. We will certainly return.

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Guest: Lucinda, Russel and Alex (5yrs) C
Date of Stay: 11/18/05 Review Submitted: 11/17/05

Merci beaucoup !! Très magnifique !!We have had the most magical week in ‘la Maison de Marc’. You have an absolutly beautiful setting here in ‘Le Maine’ and the cottage has been carefuly prepared to ensure that there is nothing lacking to make our stay as comfortable as can be.Thank you very much for your generosity, your local advice and the attention to details that have made this week so special.We will walk away with very fond memories with the promise to return to this wonderful spot and fully indulge ourselves once again in everything the region offers.

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Guest: Michelle & Len T.
Date of Stay: 11/04/05 Review Submitted: 11/03/05

Thank you for being such gracious hosts. We loved having drinks with you and especially our fun dinner together with lots of laughs. The cottage is charming and so welcoming with the wine, cheese and loaf of bread awating us. We very much appreciated all your advise and what to see in the Perigord. We certainly would have missed two of our favorite sites without your recommendation : La Roque-Saint-Christophe and Beynac.

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Guest: Dorota & Gary S.
Date of Stay: 09/23/05 Review Submitted: 09/22/05

From the moment you turn off the road you know you are in for something special. The cottage is fantastic, certainly the best we have ever stayed in and the welcome is equal to it. Thank you for all your advice and help, from booking restaurants to planning itineraries. Your local knowledge was vital in making this a great week.

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Guest: Bryan, Rieneke, Rod & Julie D.
Date of Stay: 07/09/05 Review Submitted: 07/08/05

Merci beaucoup for sharing your little corner of the world with us ! From the lovely white you introduced us to upon our arrival, the tranquil canoe ride we enjoyed from Cubjac in your very own little wessel & the helpful advice you gave us as we planned our week, to the very nice chats we shared, the herbs we were allowed to pick from your garden & the generous use of your beautiful pool, you have been the most affable & hospitable of hosts. You live in an absolutly gorgeous little nook of the world, but the true testament to your warmth and consideration (as well as the comfort of your adorable little cottage) is that we always looked forward, at the end of our days, to returning to our ‘home away from home’.

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Guest: Lynn, Jeana & Andre R.
Date of Stay: 06/03/05 Review Submitted: 06/02/05

Thank you for sharing your beautiful home with us. Your warmth and generosity made us feel at home away from home. We will remember our first very special truffle dinner prepared by our wonderful hosts – a memory to treasure as well as our comfortable stay in your beautiful cottage. Your place was wonderful and the Perigord was magical. We hope to come back for another visit very soon.

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