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Above the Dordogne valley, Le Bastion offers the rare pleasure of staying in a beautifully restored French home while being part of everyday village life. Set in pretty Gensac, with cobbled lanes, village amenities and local events just a stroll away, this handsome Maison de Maître is particularly well suited to families and groups spanning the generations. Here, days can move at everyone’s pace, from splashing in the pool or working out in the gym to leisurely lunches and glasses of local wine as the sun goes down.

The restoration of Le Bastion has been a true labour of love. Original stone walls, oak beams, flagstone floors and Louis XV fireplaces celebrate the character of the house, while thoughtful contemporary touches make it wonderfully comfortable for modern stays. In the lounge, generous seating creates a relaxed gathering place, complemented by a 65 inch satellite TV and views across the valley. The atmospheric dining room leads through a stone archway to the bespoke Neptune style kitchen, complete with two ovens, a large island with bar seating, Sonos music system and everything needed for long lunches and convivial evenings together.

Upstairs, four bedrooms each have their own bathroom, alongside quality linen, Sonos speakers and USB charging. Three feature super king-size beds, while the beautifully finished bathrooms include rain showers and, in two rooms, roll top baths. The house works especially well when different generations holiday together, giving everyone space to follow their own interests before gathering again for meals and evenings. Younger guests will especially appreciate the games room for table tennis, board games and puzzles. 

Across the quiet village lane, a private courtyard becomes the focus of summer days and a natural gathering place for all ages. Spend hours dipping in and out of the pool or you may prefer to linger over lunch, read in the sunshine or settle in with a cool drink as the scent of lavender fills the air. Later, everyone can come together for a barbecue before heading to the west facing terrace as evening light falls across the Durèze valley. With so much to enjoy at home, some of the best days may be those with no plans at all.

Gensac is far more than a beautiful backdrop to a stay at Le Bastion. It is a village that has stolen the hearts of guests, offering the chance to experience what it really feels like to live in a French village for a week or two. Wander along its cobbled lanes, stroll out for dinner or a glass of wine, browse the annual brocante, and enjoy occasional marchés nocturnes on warm summer evenings. There is a wonderful sense of becoming part of the rhythm of the place. Thoughtful local recommendations add a personal touch, making it easier to discover the restaurants, vineyards and experiences that suit your group. 

Beyond Gensac, there is plenty to fill your days. Browse the colourful stalls of Sainte Foy la Grande’s Saturday market, visit surrounding vineyards, explore Saint Émilion and Bergerac, or take to the Dordogne river by canoe. From châteaux and markets to restaurants and wine tasting, the variety makes it easy for every generation to find something they enjoy, with plenty of time left for long afternoons back at the pool.

Le Bastion brings together the pleasures of a high-end French house, space to relax, village life within walking distance and memorable experiences throughout the surrounding countryside. It is a place to explore when the mood takes you, slow down when it does not, and simply enjoy being with family and friends.