Charming 5-Bedroom/5-Bathroom French Countryside Retreat near Sarlat-La-Canéda

I live in Washington, D.C. with my wife and our two children, but this home in the Dordogne region of France holds a special place in my heart. Over 20 years ago, my mother—who was a single parent raising two kids in Oakland, California—decided to take us on a vacation to the French countryside. She wanted to immerse us in the language and culture while giving us space to breathe and explore. We fell in love with the area and returned to the same village for several summers. Eventually, she bought a piece of land and, brick by reclaimed brick, built this home with the help of both French and American architects.

After her recent passing, my sister and I began managing the property. Hosting has become more than just sharing a beautiful space—it’s about keeping her memory and vision alive. I enjoy welcoming guests because this house is full of stories, family, history, and love. It’s a deeply personal place that we hope brings others the same peace and joy it’s brought us.

The home is located in the heart of the Dordogne region, about 10 minutes from Sarlat-la-Canéda, one of France’s most beautifully preserved medieval towns. Though our village has a bakery and charming shops and markets. What I love most about this area is its warm, welcoming feel—neighbors who wave hello, fresh air, quiet mornings, and the deep sense of history that surrounds you.

Whether you’re wandering the cobbled streets of Domme or taking a day trip to castles like Beynac and Castelnaud—fortresses from the time of the Hundred Years’ War—you feel transported. Lascaux’s famous prehistoric caves are just 20 minutes away, and for the outdoor enthusiast, there are endless opportunities to bike, canoe, swim, or hike in nature. It’s a place where time slows down, and the land, food, and people nourish the soul.

This home is truly one of a kind—not just because of its design, but because of the story behind it. My mother and I built it from the ground up, using reclaimed materials from old barns and working closely with both French and American architects to blend local character with the comforts of modern living. Every detail was chosen with care—from the stone fireplace and handcrafted doors to the layout that allows for both privacy and togetherness.

Unlike many rentals, this isn’t a generic vacation house—it is a real family home, filled with decades of memories. It features five bedrooms and bathrooms, high-speed internet, cable TV, and a well-equipped kitchen, but more importantly, it feels warm and lived-in. The home is surrounded by peaceful woods with a garden perfect for relaxing, gathering, or even celebrating. It’s a place that honors the past while welcoming guests into something deeply personal, and that’s what makes it special.