Mont Joie
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About the home
Mont Joie is located off the ancient cobblestone road leading to the medieval Chateau of Beynac.
The front door opens directly into the main room of approximately 60 sq. meters. Honey coloured stone walls, stone tile floor, old wooden beams and a large medieval fireplace sets the tone for this main floor. A fully applianced kitchen with a granite countered cooking area is built into one of the old fireplaces. Antique carpets and leather seating offers a comfortable area to relax and listen to the stereo or view English satelite television on the 30" flat panel television. The dining table suitable for seating up to 8 diners is next to the window offering spectacular views of the river and the frequent hot air ballons drifting by.
Two large private bedrooms both with modern en suite bathrooms are down a stone staircase leading from the main salon. The master bedroom has a kingsize bed with a tempurpedic mattress and the second bedroom is set up for either a king or two twins, with exceptionally comfortable mattresses. Both bedrooms are remarkably cool, even in the warmest weather - the beneficiary of 3' thick stone walls.
There is a full width balcony off of the master bedroom with loungers, a gas barbecue and an outdoor dining table provides our guests with a very private location to enjoy a glass of wine, relax and watch the world flow by on the Dordogne.
There are two additional flagstoned terraces just above river level. One terrace is covered with a grape and wisteria arbor, while the other allows for full sun exposure. Relaxing loungers and a dining table are located on the terrace.
For those who want to take cooling dip, you can do what the French do and try out the Dordogne, or there is a wonderful crystal clear, chlorine free slow moving tributary called the River Ceau located within 4kms. Wonderfully cooling, with shady banks . Bring a picnic basket and experience the true French joie de vivre!
| Size: | Sleeps up to 6, 2 bedrooms |
|---|---|
| Access: | Car advised Nearest amenities: 100m |
| Family friendly? | Suitable for children of all ages Unsuitable for people with restricted mobility |
| Notes: | No pets allowed No smoking at this property Self-catering |
Facilities
| Luxuries: | Log fire, Internet access, DVD player |
|---|---|
| General: | Central heating, TV, CD player, Telephone, Satellite TV, Wi-fi available |
| Standard: | Kettle, Toaster, Iron |
| Utilities: | Clothes dryer, Dishwasher, Cooker, Microwave, Fridge, Freezer, Washing machine |
| Rooms: | 2 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms of which 2 en suites |
| Furniture: | Double beds (2), Cots (2), Dining seating for 6, Lounge seating for 5 |
| Other: | Please check with the advertiser regarding linen and towels |
| Outdoors: | Balcony / Terrace, Private garden, BBQ |
| Access: | Parking space |
Further details indoors:
Fully renovated with period features maintained.
Fully equipped kitchen and dining service for 6 people. Includes wine, champagne, liquer and cocktail glasses for entertaining and aperos before dinner.
Further details outdoors:
Parking is located just across from the front door. You'll have your own private parking grotto, a rarity in the village. To use this private parking space, you will need a compact or smaller car to navigate the narrow lane. If you have a large car, there is ample parking in the municipal parking lots which are only 1-2 blocks away.
Within strolling distance, there are 6 restaurants,3 art galleries, 3 wonderful patisseries, a butcher, a grocery store, a pharmacy, and a hair stylist. All located within a medieval village setting.
Further details
English-speaking representative on hand to answer any questions.
We accept bank checks in Euro only, wire transfers, or PayPal (preferred).
A deposit is required to confirm a reservation. A damage/security deposit is also required.
Conditions
No pets allowed
Smoking not allowed
Photos
The Aquitaine / Dordogne / Dordogne region
The Dordogne, or the Périgord as it is known by the French, is one of the most beautiful regions in France. The Périgord Noir, which derives its name from the black truffles found here and its walnuts, is to be found in the triangle of Sarlat, Domme and Les Eyzies, cut through by the Dordogne and Vézère rivers. The Périgord Noir is a stunning mixture of prehistoric caves hidden in tree-covered valleys and medieval castles dating from the 100 years war. You cannot fail to be impressed by the number and variety of castles that there are to visit, as well as the multitude of cavemen dwellings and underground sites.The Périgord Noir is also famous for its cuisine. You can expect some form of duck on every menu, either the famous duck or goose liver (foie gras) or “confit de canard” or the lighter “magret de canard”. You should try the truffles, whose farming grounds are kept a very close secret by the truffle hunters, and also the cèpes, a very tasty form of mushroom.
The Beynac / Le Bourg area
The medieval village of Beynac is dominated by its spectacular castle, which overlooks the Dordogne valley, giving an unrestricted view over many miles of countryside, dotted with castles. The village itself clings to the steep hillside below and is an extraordinary sight to behold. You will find restaurants, antique shops, a post office, a bakery and, more recently, a small grocery store at the foot of the hillside, beside the river, and you can also take a traditional boat along the Dordogne from Beynac to discover the other castles that line this part of the river. Given its location, halfway between St-Cyprien and Sarlat, Beynac is an ideal departure point for exploring the many tourist attractions of the Périgord Noir. and Mont Joie is right in the heart of Beynac. A perfect spot to start your day and to relax after a long day of sightseeing, hiking or canoeing down the Dordogne.
How to get there
Click map icons for more information
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| Nearest Travel Links | |
| Airport: | Bergerac: 60 km |
| Railway: | Sarlat: 10 km |
Most likely you will fly to Paris, Bordeaux, Toulouse, or Bergerac from your departure point. You can fly Ryan Air (www.ryanair.com) direct from Stansted airport in London to Bergerac. If you choose to begin your trip with a visit to Paris, you should take the train to Brive-la Gaillarde. From there you can rent a car at the Avis agency which is very close to the train station. You will need a rental car to get around the countryside. Prices are best when booked from home.
From Bordeaux (2 hrs): Take the A89 to Perigeux, then follow signs to Sarlat, then Beynac
From Toulouse (2 hrs): Take the A20 north and exit at Souillac, then follow signs to Sarlat, then Beynac
From Bergerac (1 hr): Take the D-roads east towards Lalinde, St. Cyprien, then Beynac
From Paris by car (5 hrs): Take the A20 south, exit at Souillac, follow signs for Sarlat, then Beynac
From Paris by train/car (5 hrs): Depart at Gare d’Austerlitz train station, disembark at Brive-la Gaillarde. Europcar Rental Agency is one block downhill from the Brive Station. Follow D-roads to Sarlat, then Beynac.
Activities near Beynac
Tennis in town
Watersports
Horse Riding
Golf within 30 mins drive
Fishing
Walking holidays
Rural / countryside retreats
City breaks
Cycling holidays
Reviews
 30 Oct 2011 |
My wife and I and another couple spent mid-October 2011 at Mont Joie - beyond our expectations for charm, comfort and locale. We felt at home in the village of Beynac and Mont Joie felt like... more |
04 Sep 2011 |
This home is beautifully furnished with french antiques, copper pieces, very comfortable beds, tons of linens & more gadgets in the kitchen than you may have at home! The photographs are accurate... more |
21 Jul 2011 |
We rented Mont Joie along with Petit Maison from Vincent last summer. Vincent was great to deal with and provided us with excellent information before and during our stay. Beynac is an excellent... more |
Guestbook for Mont Joie
July 10, 2010
A fantastic property in the Dordogne. The listing description was accurate regarding the location--the town of Beynac and the Dordogne area are beautiful. Photos accurately reflect this property--we chose this property largely on the photos and were not disappointed. The property was exceptionally well maintained. The owner was great to deal with from the start of the process right to the very end. We had prompt replies to our questions, detailed information on getting to the property and a very useful handbook at the property on things to do in Beynac and the surrounding area. Our favourites: 1. The two homes, La Petite Maison and Mont Joie are beautifully period-decorated and the views from Mont Joie are awesome. Both homes were comfortable and welcoming to return to each evening. We loved the library, both film and book. The orientation booklet was invaluable. We also viewed the suggested films that portrayed views and castles in the area. The homes were really well equipped; virtually everything that we wanted to use was there, the microwave, dishwasher, TV, WiFi , washer and dryer, and dishes, cutlery, pots and pans, etc. Being part of an authentic local neighbourhood was a bonus; we were a bit afraid that we would be surrounded by tourists, but such was not the case. We were able to chat daily with the woman in the wine store and with the proprietor of La Petite Tonnelle. 2. Food-The food at La Petite Tonnelle is delicious. We also thoroughly enjoyed Le Grand Bleu in Sarlet for dinner and passed a lovely afternoon near Domme at the ferme-auberge, La Borie Blanche, however, it was good to have a French speaker at the table at La Borie Blanche. La Récréation in Les Arques was amazing. 3. Activities/Visits We loved the town of Les Eyzies and the National Museum of Pre-history, as well as the cave paintings in nearby Font de Gaume. Paddling down the Dordogne was a highlight, with a ride on the motorized Gabarres a less strenuous option. Domme was pretty, with that incredible view from the Terrasse, and we loved the shopping and market. St Cyprien market was huge and very good. The 'plus beaux villages de France' were great; we particularly enjoyed Carrenac, Autoine, the Chateau de Montal and Chateau de Castelnau. The castles of Beynac and Castlenaud were interesting, as were the nearby Jardins de Marqueyssac. Don't miss: St Cirq-La Popie, Peche Merle, Rocamadour, Roque Gageac or Sarlat.
-Frank, Victoria B.C.
March 27, 2010
My husband and I, and another couple spent a week in Mont Joie last March and loved every minute. In fact we loved it so much that we’ve booked it for the whole month of March this year. I’ll try to be brief with my comments, but it’s going to be difficult!!!
The House Itself: The House is perfect for 2 couples or a family of 4. The bedrooms are totally private…..each being located on a separate floor and each having their own private bath. The house is furnished to an extremely high standard with many quality antiques and has been restored beautifully. The baths and all appliances are very new. The entire property is maintained meticulously and we found everything to be in great working order. The view from the windows, terrace and gardens is something we’ll never forget…..truly. There are 4 chateau across the river, and we just couldn’t stop taking pictures at different times of the day, depending how the sun was hitting them. If there is any negative about the house, it would be that it could seem dark depending on the hour of the day….due to the fact that it’s on the side of the hill. I do remember the sun streaming in brightly in the morning in the living areas, though……and then watching the sun set from the terrace off our bedroom.
The Village and the Region: When I research an area, I read everything I can get my hands on, but we weren’t prepared for how perfect Beynac turned out to be. In fact the other couple traveling with us last year has literally traveled the entire world and can afford to stay anywhere they choose…..and they acted like 2 small children exploring the village and Mont Joie. We always try to stay in historic towns or villages, but have never been in a place where every inch of the village seems to be so perfectly restored like Beynac is. Another thing we loved about Beynac is that it turned out to be the perfect hub for visiting lots of other beautiful villages and towns. It’s about 10 – 15 minutes from Sarlat, which is a great small city to explore with wonderful markets and restaurants and shops. Within 2 miles of Beynac are 3 other small villages and chateau to explore…..Domme, Castelnaud, and La Roque-Gageac. And if you enjoy gardens at all, DO NOT MISS Jardins de Marqueyssac, which is about 2 miles from Mont Joie and can be seen from the house. We spent a day enjoying the city of Bergerac and the tons of wineries in that area, and another day exploring the caves nearby. Also, don’t miss Roussilon or Rocamadour. There just wasn’t time to explore it all……that’s why we’re going back for a month this year…..plus to have some time built in to just sit in front of the warm fire in Mont Joie and relax…..enjoying being residents of Beynac.
Working with Vincent: Again, I can’t come up with anything negative here. He was so prompt in responding to every question or request. We e-mailed him enroute to Beynac because our rental car broke down and caused us to get in quite late. He responded within minutes while we were stranded in a service station waiting for a replacement car (deep in the countryside of France with us knowing no French)…..assuring us his “agent” would be waiting for us however late we arrived. His “agent” – Christoff and his wife Sarissa - turned out to be the owners of a small hotel in Beynac, and they became our friends by the end of our stay. They speak perfect English and were so patient with us. I’ve corresponded with Vincent throughout the year by e-mail and feel like I know him and Michele, even though we’ve never met. We feel so confident about his character that we plan to do our first ever home exchange with him and Michele and their family…..they are staying at our house here in Lancaster in exchange for one of our weeks in March. I don’t think our experience with Vincent is an exception…..every review I read about his properties describes him to be on top of every detail with perfect follow-through. He is a man of his word, and that is important to us.
LuAnne, PA
July 6, 2009
Perfection in a villa rental Bottom line, Villa Mont Joie is equal to our best villa experience in 40 years of extensive traveling and my 20 years of travel consulting . VIEW: Magic. Certainly the best villa view in Beynac and equal to the best overall take-in villa view of our travels. We always seek a stunning view in a villa. Mont Joie is true magic and the pictures just cannot do it justice - 180 degree view of the Dordogne, castles, boats, hot air balloons, swans - that is changing and mesmerizing dawn to dusk. The huge top floor window and large covered second floor deck with table/chaises/bbq are focal points to this. INSIDE: This is a beautifully renovated medievel era home with the finest touches of period interior design and furniture and lighting. Many of the walls are the glowing honey color stone of the region. The master bath is spectacular with the glass sink set against the local stone. KITCHEN: Equipped at the highest grade with stainless steel appliances, granite, and extensive dishes, serving and kitchenware, and accessories. As cooks, we were in heaven. BEDS: Among the most comfortable of all our travels. SETTING: Mont Joie is in the fairy tale town of Beynac, consistently one of the most beautiful villages in France. The key sites of the area are all within easy reach by car (chateaux, Sarlat, etc). We were a party of 4 - myself and husband and daughters 9 and 15. We found Mont Joie as close to perfection as a rental could be. The owners use this home as their own for their vacations which speaks volumes to the quality. As renters of Mont Joie, we stepped in as "residents" rather than mere villa renters for the week due to the quality and beauty. The ultimate compliment to a rental is that you want to stay there rather than venture out as it is so nice. Mont Joie is truly a rare gem . .and we were lucky to experience it. A week of magic moments in a magic villa in a magic setting - what more could you want from a vacation?
-Chris Tompane, California
April 16, 2008
My husband and I loved our stay in your beautiful home. It was everything you advertised to be. The views of the river and castles are magnificent. The furnishings are lovely, and the bed extremely comfortable. We enjoyed many lovely evenings on the terrace overlooking the river. The area has many wonderful sites and great things to do. We would highly recommend your home to anyone! Thank you!
-Dawn, Ann Arbor, Michigan
May 25, 2008
My husband and I and our two friends were absolutely enchanted by Mont Joie. The phrase "million euro view" is right on target. One or all of us were constantly standing at the dining room window if we weren't on the balcony or one of the terraces: river, castles, chateaux, flowers, birds, hot-air balloons, made a fairytale picture we couldn't get enough of. The kitchen was nicely equipped; the dishes and glassware were pretty; the bedrooms were spacious and comfortable; the gardens around the split-level terrace were exquisite. Wonderful village markets every day of the week; great walks; excellent restaurants nearby; wonderful towns and other excursions all around. Mont Joie lived up to the pictures and description on the website where we found it. I'd never rented a property online before, and this experience was 100% satisfactory.
-Martha Spaulding, Belmont, Mass.
Aug 21, 2008
We loved Mont Joie. After 6 weeks in France, this was by far our favourite vacation rental. The house is beautiful as well as comfortable and well-equipped. The views from all three levels can't be beat. (They take up a big section of our photo album!) This is a perfect spot to visit the lovely Dordogne.
-Katherine, Mark, Olenna, and Ella, North Vancouver, BC
Aug 24, 2008
We had a fabulous time, Mont Joie was absolutely perfect. The views from the balcony will keep us going through the long Canadian winter! Our first visit to the Dordogne will not be our last. There was lots for the kids to do - the Air Parc and other such tree climbing adventure parks were great for our older kids. I thought the best things we did were to visit Beynac castle, canoe on the river and then the Gouffre de Padirac, which is worth the drive but get there early! The balcony provided an excellent view of the hot air balloons and also a spectacular lightning storm. Mont Joie is centrally located for many things to do, and the accommodation is first class.
-The Stewarts, Toronto, ON
Rental prices
| Rental prices originally quoted in: Euros € | Convert to: |
| Prices for group size 6 | ||||||
| Period | From | To | Weekly | Nightly rate | Minimum stay | |
| Weekday | Weekend | |||||
| Off Season | 5 Nov 11 | 17 Dec 11 | € 780 | - | - | 1 Week |
| Christmas/New Years | 17 Dec 11 | 7 Jan 12 | € 1100 | - | - | 1 Week |
| Off Season | 7 Jan 12 | 10 Mar 12 | € 855 | - | - | 1 Week |
| Low Season | 10 Mar 12 | 7 Apr 12 | € 925 | - | - | 1 Week |
| Early Spring | 7 Apr 12 | 19 May 12 | € 1175 | - | - | 1 Week |
| Mid Season | 19 May 12 | 30 Jun 12 | € 1575 | - | - | 1 Week |
| Peak Season | 30 Jun 12 | 1 Sep 12 | € 1725 | - | - | 1 Week |
| Mid Season | 1 Sep 12 | 6 Oct 12 | € 1625 | - | - | 1 Week |
| Low Season | 6 Oct 12 | 3 Nov 12 | € 1245 | - | - | 1 Week |
| Off Season | 3 Nov 12 | 22 Dec 12 | € 855 | - | - | 1 Week |
| Christmas/New Years | 22 Dec 12 | 5 Jan 13 | € 1150 | - | - | 1 Week |
NB: Prices may be subject to change at the advertiser's discretion.
Rates include all taxes, fees, normal cleaning, and linens.
Rates are for 4 guests, add 25 euros for each additional guest.
We accept Visa, Mastercard, and AMEX via Paypal, Wire transfers, and cheques in Euros.
Availability
See below for next 9 months' availability - to see the next 24 months click here
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Contact the owner
* Required fields Please check the following errors: | 4 years listed You are contacting Vincent Shrader
Payment accepted
Languages spoken    The owner is based in the United States and has advertised with Holiday Lettings since 2007. This villa has received 4 reviews from previous guests.  |
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