Anne and Bruce are South Africans who have retired to France in pursuit of a lifelong dream. We looked at 50 houses before selecting the Manoir de Rieuzal. We are mad about everything French, the cuisine, architecture, decor, fashion ( Anne ran her own fashion house in Johannesburg for 36 years before retiring). Bruce is a headhunter who loves books and current affairs. Anne is passionate about history and all things Russian because of her family background.. Living and owning businesses in South Africa opened us up to great cultural diversitywhich we have enjoyed. We continue to travel to experience other cultures. We like having people around us and want them to share our enthusiasm for this beautiful region.

This 18th century manor house overlooks the Dordogne River valley with a 180 degree panoramic view. It is the main dwelling of what was once a hamlet for 40 people. It now houses us and our wonderful neighbour, a walnut and sheep farmer whose wife regularly brings freshly grown organic produce and is a fountain of wisdom on local tradition and folklore. Entrance to the property from the Rieuzal lane is through a large stone-arched wooden door . One arm of the L- shaped house provides guest accomodation. The large bedrooms are comfortable and stylishly furnished The beds are Queen size extra length, the linen pure Egytian cotton with goose down duvets and pillows. Hypoallergenic bedding available on request. Each bedroom has a good size en suite bathroom, double washbasins and a shower or bath/shower. In the comfortable sitting area is a TV and a kitchenette. Anne and Bruce,are on hand to see to your needs and invite you to join them for a sundowner glass of wine on the terrace before you head out to one of the many surrounding restaurants.

We are surrounded by wonderfully picturesque villages and a region offering great outdoor activities. Most villages host a market day selling artisanal produce to enjoy on a picnic . The Lot is well known for its Cahors wines. There are numerous "antiquités" outlets and fairs. History boffs will enjoy the three chateaux visible from our terrace and the museum on the final battle of the Romans against Vercingetorix at Uxellodorum in Vayrac. The architecture of the region has been heavily influenced by the English occupation during the Hundred Years' War. The region is also well known for the brave French Resistance fighters of WWII. There is a museum on Neanderthal man at La-Chapelle- aux- Saints. You can visit an Angora goat farm or take a walk to the cascade outside of Loubressac. A boat ride on the subterranean river of the Gouffre de Padirac is awe inspiring and refreshing on a hot day. There are cooking lessons at the Michelin Star 'Trois Soleils de Montal' restaurant, which borders on a 9-hole golf course. There are many good restaurants in the area For the more adventurous, hot air ballooning can be arranged from Collonges, Turenne or Curemonte.