Self catering holidays in the Dordogne are one of the most popular ways to stay in the Perigord Noir. Self catering gives you the best of both worlds.You are able to prepare you own meals from time to time with the fabulous ingredients you have found at the local market and you can sample the varied local restaurants as and when you find them.

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