LONDON, U.K. – 18 January 2012 – TripAdvisor, Inc., the world’s largest travel website, today reveals Le Chevrefeuille was chosen as a winner in the  bed and breakfast Category by TripAdvisor in its 2012 Travellers’ Choice® awards.

Now in its tenth year, the annual TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards honour the world’s best hotels, earning their distinction from those who know them best – real travellers. Unlike any other hotel honours, TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice winners are based on millions of valuable reviews and opinions from travellers around the world.

“With the help of millions of travellers around the globe, TripAdvisor is thrilled to recognise the world’s most outstanding hotels for the tenth year of the Travellers’ Choice Awards,” said Christine Petersen, president, TripAdvisor for Business. “From the best bargain hotels to best luxury hotels, remarkable service, value and quality are the hallmarks of our Travellers’ Choice winners.”

For reviews on the Le Chevrefeuille go to Le Chevrefeuille on TripAdvisor 

In search of Self is Intensive therapies for mind, body and spirit, for those who wish to effect positive change in their lives through Massage, Meditation, Counselling and Tai Chi.
The courses are run by Dave Tabb who we have known for many years. These courses are being offered exclusively at Le Chevrefeuille for one week stay incorporating a five day course and include counselling, massage, meditation and tai chi sessions.

Daves interest in the field of self development began some thirty years ago, when he started to learn the art of Tai Chi. In the West the art of Tai Chi is seen as a form of exercise, in the East it is seen as being a system, not just a martial art, designed to promote the accumulation and flow of chi. Daves instruction in meditation came from Tibetan, and Theravada Buddhist Monks. Both here in U.K. and in Malaysia.
Tai Chi was taught by Daves friend and teacher Lim Chong Watt (A former international Tai Chi judge, and President of the Malaysian Tai Chi Association) who to this day instructs him in Chi transference and the healing power of massage. Through the study of meditation it became a natural step to pursue the understanding of what it is to be human and the psychology of this. Through this interest he first volunteered and trained to be a Samaritan, he did this for some years, and later qualifiying as a counsellor with CSCT (Counselling Skills and Counselling Training). He qualified as a Humanistic Counsellor, and further to this he became a member of BACP, The British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (www.bacp.co.uk). The largest professional body representing counselling and psychotherapy in the UK, which sets the standards for therapeutic practice.
Later through his interest in chi transference he trained and became a member of the Holistic Healers Association (HAA). During this period of development he has practised and taught Tia Chi in the U.K. and abroad. he was bereavement counsellor for a number of years and trained as a cancer counsellor.
Meditation and massage are both his regular practice. Through the study and practice of these therapies he became increasing aware of the health benefits of the flow of energy, between these therapies, which compliment each other perfectly and the accumative benefit of intensive, one to one, practice. This is the ISOS Approach.

Details and pricing can be found on the ISOS website at www.isosapproach.com

Le Chevrefeuille Cookery School Dordogne was established in 2003 but was only available for a limited time due to the success of Le Chevrefeuille restaurant. It has now been re-established by popular demand and we will be running courses throughout the 2012 season. They are a great way to learn some cookery techniques that will elevate your food to restaurant standard. If you cant wait until then, here is my Tapanade recipe which, is fantastic with fresh bread and a cold crisp white wine.

• 2 Tins of pipped olives (I prefer black)
• 1 Clove of Garlic
• 10 Anchovies Fillets
• 40 Grams of Capers
• 125 Grams of almond powder  

Put all ingredients in a food processor turn on and start to add extra virgin olive oil, about a cup full. Finish with black pepper and lemon juice to taste.

Bon appétit!

I am often asked about the region’s products as they are very different, almost mystical,  The two I have picked today are Foie gras and the elusive truffle.

Probably the most famous product of the region Foie Gras, Its flavor is described as rich, buttery, and delicate, unlike that of an ordinary duck or goose liver. Foie Gras is sold whole, or is prepared into mousse, parfait, or pâté (the lowest quality), and may also be served as an accompaniment to another food item, such as steak. French law states that “Foie gras belongs to the protected cultural and gastronomical heritage of France.

Truffles are also a well known product of the Perigord Noir, a truffle is the fruiting body of an underground mushroom; spore dispersal is accomplished through fungivores animals that eat fungi. Almost all truffles are ectomycorrhizal and are therefore usually found in close association with trees.

There are hundreds of species of truffles, but the fruiting body of some (mostly in the genus Tuber) are highly prized as a food. The 18th-century French gastronome Brillat-Savarin called these truffles “the diamond of the kitchen”. Edible truffles are held in high esteem in French, Spanish, northern Italian and Greek cooking, as well as in international haute cuisine. Prices are about Euro 800.00 a kilo.

Hope to see you soon Ian

Self catering accommodation is big business in the Dordogne Valley with hundreds of properties to choose from most of which are beautifully restored and converted farm houses. The design of these buildings keeps them cool in the summer months and warm throughout the cold winter months.
Most people visiting this magical area seek out the oldie woldie accommodation to get the full French experience.
Many accommodation providers like Le Chevrefeuille offer the full range of facilities including evening meals which allow you to meet other guests, which can be a lovely way of planning the next days events.

When you are searching for your self catering accommodation in France you will come across the word Gite, A “Gîte” is a holiday home that is available for rent.
Gîtes are usually fully furnished and equipped for self-catering. Many owners choose to handle their own rentals, and you can find these by searching online on the multitude of listing sites or by checking with the local tourist information office. Technically speaking, to be called a gîte, the owner must live close by in order to provide help, assistance, and a warm welcome to guests Gîtes are generally old farmworkers’ cottages or converted outbuildings and barns within proximity of the owners’ principal residence. This type of holiday accommodation is sometimes regarded as ‘basic’ in terms of facilities; however, most gîtes are generally very well kept, and a growing number will have excellent facilities such as fully fitted kitchens, en-suite bathrooms, TV, DVD and access to a swimming pool or other sporting activities.

The term gîte nowadays encompasses most forms of holiday cottage and even holiday flats or apartments. Many gîtes will also accept pets. The term *gîte* originally meant quite simply a form of shelter. Gîtes are encouraged by the local tourist board and planning authorities as they attract investment and tourism. All gîte owners are required to ensure that their gîtes are safe and comply with the necessary rules, regulations and insurance requirements. If you haven’t experienced this amazing part of France its time to get booking.

Le Chevrefeuille offers the two following self catering gites :

Passiflore 

Passiflore is our two-bedroom traditional apartment with sandstone walls renovated within our barn dating back to 1891. Mixing traditional charm with modern comfort, with two double bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen, dining area and living area, it is ideally suited for families of 4.
The apartment terrace at the back has immediate access to our large meadow garden and swimming pool. In the meadow garden, large walnut trees offer splendid shaded areas for eating or reading and from this garden you gain a beautiful view over Pechboutier and its woodland which provides a delightful spot for bird watching.
A children’s play area located at the bottom of the garden provides entertainment for children in a safe environment that can be viewed from the terraces for the comfort and relaxation of the parents with total peace of mind… more info 

Grapevine

Grapevine is identical in size and layout to Passiflore but adds an additional bedroom plus bathroom annex which in turn has its own terrace. With three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen, dining area and living area, it is ideally suited for families who have friends, teenagers or grandparents who wish to be together but have their own private space.
The apartment and annex terraces at the back have immediate access to our large meadow garden. In the meadow garden and swimming pool. Large walnut trees offer splendid shaded areas for eating or reading and from this garden you gain a beautiful view over Pechboutier and its woodland which provides a delightful spot for bird watching.
A children’s play area located at the bottom of the garden provides entertainment for children in a safe environment that can be viewed from the terraces for the comfort and relaxation of the parents with total peace of mind… read more 

A list of Dordogne Markets and Dordogne Market days

Agonac : Saturday
Beaumont : Tuesday, Saturday
Belves : Saturday
Bergerac : Saturday, Wednesday
Brantome : Tuesday, Friday
Cenac : Tuesday
Cubjac : Friday
Daglan : Sunday
Domme : Thursday
Eymet : Thursday
Excideuil : Thursday
Issigeac : Sunday
Jumilhac : Wednesday
La Coquille : Thursday
Lalinde : Thursday
La Roche Chalais : Saturday
Le Bugue Tuesday
Le Buisson – Cadouin : Friday
Les Eyzies : Monday
Mareuil : Tuesday
Monpazier : Thursday
Montpon : Wednesday
Montignac : Saturday, Wednesday
Mussidan : Saturday
Neuvic : Saturday, Tuesday
Nontron : Saturday
Perigeux : Saturday, Wednesday
Piegut : Wednesday
Razac : Saturday, Wednesday
Riberac : Tuesday, Friday
Rouffignac : Sunday
Salignac-Eyvigues : Tuesday
Sarlat : Saturday, Wednesday
Sigoules : Friday
Sorges : Sunday
St Aulaye : Saturday
St Astier : Thursday
St Cyprien : Sunday
St Genies : Sunday
Terrasson : Thursday
Thenon : Tuesday
Thiviers : Saturday
Tocane : Monday
Tremolat : Tuesday
Vergt : Friday
Villefranche du Perigord : Saturday

• Atelier Musee des Tisserands et de la Charentaise Contained within the Castle of Varaignes, this working weaving museum and the museum of the Bandiat – Tardoire valleys offers a glimpse of local life in the 19th century. Located at Varaignes.Tel: 05 53 56 35 76
• Ateliers Musee A mineral and gem stone museum found at the foot of the Castelnaud Castle. Located in Vezac. Tel: 05 53 28 35 78
• Chateau de Beynac et Cazenac The Beynac and Cazenac Castle occupies a dominant position on the rocky cliffs overlooking the Dordogne river. Reconstructed by Lord Beynac it’s architecture dates from the 13th century. Tel: 05 53 29 50 40
• Chateau de Biron The Biron Castle dates from the 12th century. It was one of the 4 Perigord baronies and owned by the Gontaut-Biron family for 8 centuries. Located in Biron near Monpazier. Tel: 05 53 63 13 39
• Chateau de Bourdeilles Features a fortress from the 13th – 15th centuries. Offers an interesting collection of cupboards, carpets, wardrobes from the 16th and 17th centuries. Open throughout the year. Located near Brantome. Tel: 05 53 03 73 36
• Chateau de Bruzac The ruins of the Bruzac Castle can be found between st Pierre de Cole and St Jean Tel: 05 53 03 70 74
• Chateau de Castelnaud This reconstructed castle overlooks the Dordogne and faces the Chateau Marqueyssac. Built in the 12th century the Castle experienced British rule from 1259 -1273. See website for more details (in French). Tel: 05 53 31 30 00
• Chateau de Chabans The Chabans Castle has been owned by some of the most prominent families of Dordogne. The castle dates back to the 15th century. It played a role in the Resistance movement when Jacques Chaban-Delmas took his “nom de guerre” from the castle. Tel: 05 53 51 70 60
• Chateau de Duras Castle dated from the middle age offers an architecture mixing middle-age and the 18th century. Located in Duras, Lot et Garonne (47). Tel: 05 53 83 77 32
• Chateau de Fenelon At Ste. Mondain between Sarlat and Soillac (24). An opportunity to visit a furnished Chateaux with it’s antique furniture and historical architecture. Pets are not permitted. Tel: 05 53 29 81 45 Fax: 05 53 29 88 99
• Chateau de Fratteau The Fratteau Castle dominates domain of the new prison. Built in the 12th and 17th century it has preserved chimneys from the 15th and 16th century. Now also home to potters. Located at the exit of Neuvic sur l’Isle. Tel: 05 53 81 11 02
• Chateau de Hautefort A classical castle built in the 9th century on a rocky spur. It once belonged to the viscounts of Limoges and features the Long Tower, The Palm Tower and The Prison Tower. Located in Hautefort. See website for more details. Tel: 05 53 50 51 23
• Chateau de Jumilhac le Grand The castle was originally built in the 13th century and used to act as a line of defence during many incursions. Well known for its unique roofs that were built around the 1600’s. Located at Jumilhac Le Grand. Tel: 05 53 52 42 97
• Chateau de L’Herm The Herm Castle was built at the end of the 15th century but was abandoned. Today it is going through a period of restauration. See website for details. Located at Rouffignac Saint Cernin de Reilhac. Tel: 05 53 05 46 61
• Chateau de Lanquis A combination of architectural styles from palatial renaissance to a medieval fort created this elegant chateau. Well know for its chimneys. Open all year except from 15 January to 15 February. Tel: 05 53 63 65 00
• Chateau de Mareuil The Mareuil Castle formed one of the four baronies of Perigord. Owned by the Talleyrand family, it comprised an effective defensive system. A visit to the castle takes one back to the 100 year war and is an excellent tribute to Napoleon. At Mareuil. Tel: 05 53 60 99 85
• Chateau de Monbazillac This 26th century chateau is home to a museum dedicated to wine-making, arts and local traditions, 17th century perigord furniture and protestanism. The 4 ha parc is open to the public. Open throughout the year. Call for times. Tel: 05 53 63 65 00
• Chateau de Montfort The Montfort castle has been razed to the ground 4 times. Once in 1254 by Simon of Montfort, once during the 100 year war, once under Louis the 11th and finally under Henry the 4th. Restauration work has been underway since the 19th century. Tel: 05 53 28 57 80
• Chateau de Neuvic The Neuvic Castle was built in 1520 along the banks of the Isle. The architecture shows the transiton from Medieval Time to the Renaissance. Located at Neuvic sur l’Isle. Tel: 05 53 80 86 65
• Chateau de Puyferrat The Puyferrat Castle was built in the 16th century and features a totally covered walkway that offers a panoramic view onto the neighbouring countryside. A chapel that hosts the family vault was built in 1825. Located near St Astier. Tel: 05 53 07 86 26
• Chateau de Puyguilhem The Puyguilhem Castle was built during the First Renaissance and is a fine example of a Francoise 1st castle. Located near the village of Villars.
• Chateau de Puymartin The Puymartin Castle is be found between Sarlat and Les Eyzies. Occupied by the English in 1358 the castle has managed to preserve its furniture, carpets, paintings and other works for over 5 centuries. Tel: 05 53 59 29 97
• Chateau de Sanxet Located 3km west of Monbazillac, they offer a prestige car museum. They also rent rooms for receptions. Tel: 05 53 58 37 46
• Chateau de Sauveboeuf 16th Century castle, classified as a national monument. Displays a Louis the 18th style. Located in Aubas near Montignac. Tel: 05 53 51 89 46
• Chateau des Bernadiers Built on the side of a rocky slope around a high tower with views dominating Nizonne. This castle was no stranger to the 100 year war. The counts d’Aydie increased the castle and built terraces. Located at Champeaux et la Chapelle Pommier. Tel: 05 53 60 38 59
• Chateau des Bories Constructed on the banks of a river, the Bories Castle is an example of pure classical Perigourdian architecture. The castle dates from the 15th century. Located at Antonne et Trigonant near Perigueux. Tel: 05 53 06 00 01
• Chateau des Milandes At Castlenaud-la-Chapelle. A French chateau located in the heart of the Dordogne countryside with an exhibition relating to the life of Josephine Baker. There is also wildlife to discover on the castle grounds. Tel: 05 53 59 31 21 Fax: 05 53 29 17 33
• Chateau et Jardins de Losse At Thonac (24). An opportunity to discover this 15th century castle and gardens of Losse.Take a tour around the moat and renaissance hall, which exhibit fine 16th & 17th century tapestries. Tel: 05 53 50 80 08 Fax: 05 53 50 80 08
• Chateau l’Eveque Located on the D939 north of Perigueux. The Bishops Castle was where Saint Vincent de Paul was ordained priest in the 1600’s. Tel: 05 53 04 66 84
• Chateau Saint Michel de Montaigne The Montaigne Castle dates back to the 15th century. This is where Saint Michael wrote his famous essays from. Located at Saint Michel de Montaigne. Tel: 05 53 58 63 69 Fax: 05 53 58 63 93
• Chateau Varaignes It’s facade boasts a mix of Medieval and Renaissance styles from the 13th and 16th century. The village bought the castle in 1965 and won an award for the restoration of the castel. Located in Varaignes. Tel: 05 53 56 35 76
• Cloiture des Recollets The House of Wine on Quai Salvette in Bergerac. This 17th century “Cloiture” exhibits the historical link between Bergerac wine and the history of Bergerac. Open June to September. Tel: 05 53 63 57 55
• Eco-musee de la Noix Walnut farm and museum located in the heart of the Perigord noir region. Documentary film in English shown. There is also a shop selling the local farm produce from walnut cakes to walnut wine. Tel: 05 53 59 69 63 Fax: 05 53 28 59 34
• Ecomusee de la Truffe Contains plenty of information regarding truffles. Located at Sorges. Tel: 05 53 05 90 11
• Institute du Tabac A tobacco research institute that has an extensive collection of different types of tobacco products. The institute opens its doors to the public in the summer. Located at Domaine de la Tour on route de Sainte-Alvére in Bergerac. Tel: 05 53 63 66 00
• Le Musee Costi A collection of works by the Greek sculptor Constantin Papachristopolous. Exhibited in a 12th century crypt in the Saint Jacques presbytery in Bergerac. Ask at the Mayor’s office for more details. Tel: 05 53 74 66 66.
• Le Musee du Perigord On Cours Tourny, Perigueux. An interesting presentation of fine arts and french archeology. There is also a zoological section. Tel: 05 53 06 40 70 Fax: 05 53 06 40 71
• Le Musee du Thot The Thot Museum comprises an animal park and an exhibition centre. In the park one can see species of animal that closely resemble those that historically could be found there. Located at Thonac. Tel: 05 53 50 70 44
• Musee Atelier du Trompe-L’Oeil et du Decor Paint The Trompe-L’Oeil and Decorative Paint Museum is unique in Europe. It is possible to see demonstrations of work in progress. Located at 5 rue Emile Combes in Perigueux. Tel: 05 53 09 84 40
• Musee d’Histoire Locale The local history museum in Villefranche de Lonchat contains portraits, costumes and more. Located at Villefranche de Lonchat near Saint Michel de Montaigne. Tel: 05 53 81 21 39
• Musee de Cognac A museum dedicated to manufacturing Cognac. The process is clearly explained and the tools clearly displayed. Located in St Aulaye. Tel: 05 53 90 81 33
• Musee de l’Or Located in the basement of the Castle of Jumilhac le Grand. The museum takes one back to Gaul times when gold was mined in the region. Tel: 05 53 52 55 43
• Musee de la Carte Postale Ancienne du Perigord The Historical Postcards Museum of Perigord offers more than 33 000 exhibits. Founded by Henry Brives. Located at Saint Pardoux la Riviere. Tel: 05 53 60 76 10
• Musee de la Ferblanterie Offers more than 1000 white & galvanised iron exhibits dating from the 18th century till today. At La Tour Blanche near Riberac. Tel: 05 53 91 11 98
• Musee de la Medicine This medical museum in Hautefort, is housed in what was known as a poorhouse that housed local destitutes. The building was finished in 1740 and now hosts the tourist office, a weavers workshop and the medicam museum. See website for more details. Tel: 05 53 50 40 27
• Musee de la Paleontologie et de la Vie Sauvage Includes 3000 articles of paleonthology covering 700 million years. The Musee de la Vie Sauvage boasts more than 1000 stuffed exhibits. Open June to September. Located at 9 rue de la Republic in La Bugue sur Vezere. Tel: 05 53 08 28 10
• Musee de la Pierre Taillee This sculptured stone museum displays stomes from the Paleothique and Neolithique periods. Tel: 05 53 60 99 85
• Musee de la Prehistoire. Offres visitors an original projection room amongst the rocks. Offer various examples of sculptured rocks and Magdalenian art. Located at Teyjat. Tel: 05 53 56 30 29
• Musee des Arts et Traditions Populaires The Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions in Mussidan assembled this collection of artifacts from yesteryear including furniture and other objects. Tel: 05 53 81 23 55
• Musee des Records situated in the “salle polyvalent”, it offers a light hearted history of the songs that featured for the town’s annual August festival. Located at La Tour Blanche near Riberac. Tel: 05 53 91 11 98
• Musee des Rois d’Araucanie The Museum of the King of Araucanie celebrates Antoine de Tounens who left for Patagonia in 1860 where he declared himself king. He was expelled by the Chilean police in 1860. Medals and official documentation are on show. Located in Chourgnac near Sorge Tel: 05 53 51 12 76
• Musee du Foie Gras Discover how geese and ducks are raised, how “Foie Gras” is processed and learn about how to prepare it. At place de Marechal Foch, Thiviers, Dordogne (24). Tel: 05 53 55 12 50
• Musee du Suaire The relic of St Suaire is to be found in the Cadouin Abbey. Built in 1115, the abbey has recently been declared a world heritage site. Located in Cadouin. Tel: 05 53 63 36 28
• Musee du Tabac A tobacco museum located at Place du Feu in Bergerac. Displays a large selection of tobacco paraphernalia. Open in season. Tel: 05 53 63 04 13
• Musee du Ver a Soie An interesting and educational silkworm museum. Located at Saint Just near Riberac. Tel: 05 53 90 73 60
• Musee du Vin de la Tonnellerie et de la Batellerie A museum dedicated to the making of wine barrels and related objects. Located at 5 rue des Conferences in Bergerac. Tel: 05 53 57 80 92
• Musee Eugene le Roy To be found in the old Saint Jean l’Evangeliste Hospital. It is dedicated to the writings of Eugene Le Roy who died in the city in 1907. Displays his writings, photos, clothing and other souvenirs. Located in Montignac. Tel: 05 53 51 82 60
• Musee Fossiles The Fossil Museum features a 5.5m high and 11m long metalique sculpture of a Tyrannosaurus-Rex amongst other exhibits. Located in Peyzac le Moustier near Montignac. Tel: 05 53 50 81 02
• Musee Gallo Romain Vesunna At Rue 26eme RI, Perigueux. Conceived by Jean Nouvel, this museum presents one of the most significant archeological remains in Aquitaine. Tel: 05 53 53 00 92
• Musee Militaire du Perigord The Perigord Military Museum is at 32 Rue des Farges, Perigueux. Presents over 13000 pieces on French military history. Tel: 05 53 53 47 36
• Musee Napoleon An opportunity to visit the Museum of Napoleon and to view his family history. Situated within the grounds of Chateau de la Pommerie in the heart of Cendrieux, Dordogne (24). Tel: 05 53 03 24 03 Fax: 05 53 03 22 39
• Musee National de Prehistoire Offers an extremelly comprehensive and chronologically ordered exhibition covering the Paleolithic period. Located at Les Eyzies. Tel: 05 53 06 45 45 Fax: 05 53 06 45 55

Easter Offer for reservations between 2nd and 29th April… read more

Join our Easter Egg Hunt on Easter Sunday morning… read more

Le Chevrefeuille wins TripAdvisor’s 2012 Travellers’ Choice® awards… read more

One day cookery courses back by popular demand, book now… read more

Le Chevrefeuille offers Year round Thai chi & yoga courses, great for your body and soul… read more