Sixteen of us, aged 1 to 80, stayed in the Main House and Stable
in July 2009. We all had the most fabulous time. Both properties
are grand, (especially the main house which is incredible) yet
cosy and comfortable. We were looked after by Heidi, (and her
children who befriended our teenagers) who went out of her way
to assist us in our needs, even preparing food for our arrival.
The owners of the house were only a phone call away, however,
had we needed them. .The townsfolk were really friendly and
welcoming, and there are lovely restaurants, pizzerias and ice
cream parlours just a stones throw away. The teenagers were
welcome to go and play pool in a local bar sans adults, (we made
sure they bought some cokes, though I'm certain they also had a
few cheeky beers!). A special mention has to go to the local
butcher who prepared a range of 'just heat it in the oven'
French specialities, so we didn't have to do much cooking. This
was a Godsend when catering for 16 people! The local market
is gigantic and fantastic! Lots on offer from clothes to toys
and amazing local produce. Really fun and lively. Our
youngsters aged 1 to 7 were thoroughly entertained by the
vegetable garden and the abundance of toys available. DVD
players (with DVDs) and CBeebies also helped. The property is
large enough for everybody to have their 'space', and has some
fabulous communal areas for 'get-togethers'. It was so hot
that the unheated pool was divine (I was concerned that it would
be too cold). The whole party made full use of it. The security
gate around the pool laid to rest any worries of children
falling in. The local train is worth a mention. It's great
for day trips to Bordeaux and Perigeaux, (and other places along
the way which we didn't get to). It is super efficient, really
clean and it provided our teenagers with extra freedom to roam.
Near the station is a basketball court and running rack, which
provided endless entertainment. I have to mention 'Le Nuit de la
Bandas": The 'Night of the Bands, (although I don't want to
because then you'll want to book the house when it's on and we
won't be able to) where 15 of the bands of the region battle it
out around the town, visiting all the restaurants and bars,
culminating in the town square for a "Band Off". There is a
really festival feel, with bars and food stalls in the streets.
We all went out for dinner and danced 'til the small hours
(little ones in pushchairs). A truly brilliant and memorable
night. We shall return.
Victoria Speed and
extended family – 28 Aug 2009: ‘ Many thanks for a
wonderful two weeks. The house successfully kept teenagers
and tots entertained. The garden is a dream and we will
miss it lots when we return to London. '
Rob and Angela Law and family -
(cottage only) Sept
2009: 'We have had a super holiday here in St Astier.
We visited Bergerac and the the scenic surrounding Percharmont, Monbazillac and Saussignac vineyards - a lovely
day out and returned to the pool for a swim! We went
on the local canoe trip and visited the pretty towns of
Perigueux, Brantom, St Emilion and Auberterre. We had
a good meal at La Palombier (nice to be able to walk there
so no one had to drive!). We also ate at La Calzone
and highly recommend Heidi's meals which were tres
delicieuse! Thank you so much for a wonderful relaxing
holiday xxx.'
‘Thanks x 100000000
for Heidi’s help during our stay. It really helped knowing
you were here to answer our random queries and you always
did with a smile.’
‘Heidi’s lasagne to
die for will you marry me?’ Dave (part of same group).
Party with Lindsey
Davies 25 July 2009 – ‘ Wonderful house and a great
location. Eleanor loved the trampoline. We have had a
fabulous time and a great holiday. The Night of the Bands
will always be remembered’
‘We had a superb
family holiday, teenagers adults and toddlers alike’
4 -11 July 2009 ‘We
all had a wonderful time in your beautiful house. The
children really loved the pool and walks into the town to
buy breakfast!. All the toys here were much appreciated.
Thank you also to Heidi for looking after us so well’.
25 Nov Owen Holt
2009 ‘Homely, welcoming, thoughtfully equipped. We
recommend the ponies for the children, the local market,
wandering the back streets of the town and as much relaxing
and outdoor time as possible – thank you!’
26 Sept 2009 Caroly and family (cottage only) – ‘ We couldn’t have asked for
more from our holiday – a hugely warm welcome, a beautiful
setting, a fantastically equipped house, lovely weather - a
real home from home. We hope to be back!'
...