If your dream holiday house in France is one within easy walking distance of the boulangerie yet a haven of peace, then this imposing 18th century mansion, situated in the centre of the little town of Ribérac, is for you. The walled garden is safe for children and the proximity to local entertainment means you do not have to run a teenage taxi service or take turns to drive at night, giving you the makings of real fun and relaxation for all.
Drive through the lively market town of Ribérac, turn into a quiet side street which in turn leads into a small Place, along one side of which runs the imposing façade of Place Jules. Enter directly off the street through impressive front doors or drive through the electric gates into a large, lawned and cobbled courtyard with the cooling tinkle of an ancient fountain.
To the right and behind you is the main house. The rooms are large and newly decorated in a contemporary style but with nod to its historic past. There is a formal dining room, a comfortable drawing room and a master bedroom, all furnished in rich colours and the latter with an impressive ‘Napoleonic’ style bed. In fact all the bedrooms and bathrooms are large and light and are a very pleasant feature of this house. The well-equipped, farmhouse-style kitchen overlooking the courtyard makes it easy to make the most of one of the two lovely outdoor dining areas.
At the end of the courtyard is a very large barn which has been converted into a games room with table tennis, darts and table football. Beyond this the garden creeps up a small hillside giving superb views over the town and countryside, providing glorious tranquillity for adults and a safe adventure playground for the young. There is a raised terrace overlooking the pretty flower beds, woodlands and winding pathways leading to the heated pool and a long terrace with an electric awning.
