Travel Chateau Stay France Southwest Dordogne

Summer in the Dordogne - Stay at Manoir de la Malartrie for French Culture, Elegance and Comfort

A Stay at Manoir de la Malartrie: A Garden Retreat in the Heart of the Dordogne
Trouver Travel Blog - Dordogne France Part 2

Tucked beneath the golden cliffs of La Roque-Gageac, the Manoir de la Malartrie is more than just a place to stay—it’s a haven. Ouffaa and Danial, the gracious hosts, have created a garden oasis where every guest is welcomed like family.


Ouffaa’s attention to detail is unmatched—every corner is thoughtfully prepared, every comfort considered. Her breakfast alone is worth the journey: fresh, abundant, and lovingly made. Fresh flowers from her garden are placed in each guest's room. 

   From this peaceful retreat, we set out each day to explore the treasures of the Dordogne. Within just 1 to 55 kilometers lie some of the region’s most enchanting gardens, towns and markets—Sarlat’s cobbled streets, the vibrant stalls of St. Cyprien, nearby Jardins de Marqueyssac, and the prehistoric wonders of Les Eyzies-de-Tayac. 

The private chapel at the gardens of Marqueyssac.

   The National Museum of Prehistory is located nearby in Les Eyzies, with guided tours offered in English. (Easily schedule ahead on their website or contact us at Trouver to book for you.)

Pictured here, we are at the top of the museum next to the recently installed statue guarding over the town below.

Les Eyzies is also a wonderful place from which to launch your canoe adventure. In our next blog we share our favorite canoe company, and other favorite and easily accessible activities. 

     



About to enter and explore the famous cave Font de Gaume, outside Les Ezyies.

On our way back to Manoir de la Malartrie, we stop for Lunch at Les Tilleuls, one of our favorite restaurants in Castlenaud, which is home to the Hundred Years' War famous  trebuchets.  



Almost every Friday evening in summer, Ouffaa and Daniel host apéritifs in the grotto overlooking the river. Champagne from Daniel’s family label is poured, accompanied by freshly prepared appetizers from Ouffaa’s kitchen, inspired by her daily market finds. 

Occasionally, a lively game of petanques springs up, with guests of all ages cheerfully competing for the cochonnet. 

My son searching for the waywardly thrown cochonnet.

The next day, we shop at the Saturday morning Sarlat market in preparation for our dinner at the Manoir later that night. 

Sarlat market day, 4km from Manoir de la Malartrie. (Photo credit: Cameron Hewitt).

When staying with Ouuffa and Daniel, we always reserve the Gingko suite, which has a full kitchen and pergola just outside if we wish to make our own dinner with the fresh produce and meats purchased from the markets. Daniel and Ouffaa will set up your grill for you.  With guests in great spirits, many will stop by to chat, share a glass of wine and compare notes about the day's explorations.   

Kids find each other and eagerly explore the gardens and paths throughout this magical property. The pergola behind the Ginko suite is a perfect example of the expansive gardens that all guests can explore and enjoy. 

Whether you’re spending a lazy afternoon by the sparkling pool, sipping wine on the terrace, or simply enjoying the serenity of the landscaped grounds, the warmth of their hospitality surrounds you. And at the end of each adventure, returning to the Manoir feels like coming home.

In our last Trouver Travel blog, we provided tips for exploring the castles of the famous Golden Triangle.

Next in our Dordogne travel series, families and all will learn about the best places to picnic, canoe, ride bikes, stroll, or to explore abandoned castles.  

Travel Tips from the Manoir:

  • Car Rental is essential – while some towns are close, having your own vehicle offers flexibility and access to lesser-known gems.
  • Market days to plan around:
    • Sarlat: Saturday (year-round)
    • St. Cyprien: Sunday
    • Les Eyzies: Monday (small but charming)
  • Pack layers – even in summer, mornings can be cool and caves notably chilly. For cave exploring, sturdy shoes or hiking boots.
  • Dinner reservations – restaurants in La Roque-Gageac and nearby villages fill quickly; ask Ouffaa for her recommendations (and she can even book for you!).
  • Sunday and Monday - please plan for car pickup, restaurant and museum hours. In the country, many places might be closed on Sunday or Monday. Trouver can help with your planning for perfectly planned and easy travel. 

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Travel Planning with Trouver
As a Fora Travel certified travel advisor and IATA registration, I’d be delighted to help you plan your own unforgettable journey. Let me share some of our favorite places and what we've discovered on our travels through France while sourcing original pieces for import to the United States.

With our deep knowledge and experience of France’s most charming and hidden corners, Trouver creates bespoke travel itineraries and can also facilitate your bookings. Feel free to reach out anytime at shasha@TrouverAntiques—let’s start planning something beautiful together.   

Trouver | French Antiques and Other Treasures
Trouver is a specialist in curating a discerning collection of antique and home décor items, all the highest quality, affordably well-priced, and one-of-a-kind pieces with an intriguing and storied past.

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