Le Chai | 6-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool in Saint Agne Verdon

Fourteen guests. Six bedrooms spread across two storeys. Four bathrooms. A heated swimming pool stretching 15 metres across manicured grounds. Welcome to Le Chai, a substantial 19th-century estate in Saint Agne, a hamlet within the Dordogne’s most celebrated wine region, where the landscape shifts between vineyard slopes and medieval stone villages that seem lifted from another century.

Inside Le Chai

Le Chai sleeps 12 guests across 6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, spread strategically across ground and first floors to suit multi-generational groups and large families seeking privacy without isolation.

The ground floor unfolds with architectural generosity. A 22-square-metre kitchen, fully outfitted with dishwasher and modern appliances, connects to a 27-square-metre dining room designed to accommodate all 12 residents at once—the kind of space that transforms mealtimes from functional to ceremonial. From here, guests flow into a 35-square-metre living area, then a second sitting room of 27 square metres, each with high ceilings and period character. This configuration means small groups can splinter into their own conversation zones while remaining part of the overall household rhythm.

The master bedroom occupies 35 square metres on the ground floor, featuring a king-size bed and an en-suite shower room with separate WC—a sanctuary for the primary guests or the family requiring privacy. Two further ground-floor double bedrooms (27 square metres and 20 square metres respectively) provide flexibility: one with a king-size bed, one with twin configuration. A twin room of 21 square metres includes its own en-suite shower room. A family bathroom and separate WC serve additional ground-floor traffic.

The first floor comprises three further bedrooms: a 25-square-metre double with queen-size bed, an 18-square-metre twin room, and a shower room with separate WC. All bedroom windows command views across the estate’s 7.5 acres. Wooden beams—some original, some sensitively restored—run through several rooms, their weathered grain testifying to the property’s age and authenticity. Furnishings mix genuine antiques with functional comfort; this is not a museum but a lived-in family home scaled up.

Cable television with English and US channels ensures guests maintain connection to home media. A DVD player and stereo system occupy the first living room. Wi-Fi throughout the property allows remote work or research into the region’s heritage and dining options. Laundry facilities—including a washing machine—allow extended stays without external service dependencies.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

The property commands 7.5 acres of private grounds, divided into two distinct garden zones with contrasting purposes and atmospheres. The formal landscaped garden functions as a tranquil retreat: paths wind past mature plantings, creating natural alcoves where guests can read, work, or simply sit with coffee. The sensory experience differs markedly from the interior—shade from established trees, the subtle movement of air through opened space, the gradual shift of light across the garden floor from morning through afternoon.

The pool zone, positioned approximately 100 metres from the main house, occupies its own precinct. The 15-by-7-metre pool is heated throughout the season, and a professional safety alarm system satisfies both child supervision requirements and peace-of-mind standards. The surrounding lawn stretches wide, accommodating lawn games: badminton rackets rest against the fence, a table-tennis setup claims one corner, a giant chessboard invites multigenerational competition, and cricket equipment awaits. This is outdoor living designed not as ornament but as functional recreation—the kind of space where teenagers and grandparents both find engagement without feeling crowded or observed.

The grounds reflect the Dordogne’s rural rhythm. No immediate neighbours intrude into sightlines. The landscape rolls gently; this is not dramatic topography but comfortable countryside, the kind that encourages walking. A gravel drive provides arrival theatre without pretence. Parking space accommodates multiple vehicles essential for groups who may hire cars to explore independently.

Location: Saint Agne and the Surrounding Area

Saint Agne itself is essentially a hamlet—a clutch of farmsteads and converted country properties rather than a village with services. The nearest village within walking distance offers a children’s playground but minimal retail infrastructure. This matters: it means Le Chai functions as a self-contained retreat rather than a hub-based settlement. Guests cook within the property, order grocers in advance, or venture to Mouleydier (5 kilometres away) where a boulangerie and basic shops operate.

Lalinde, 10 kilometres south, transforms the equation. This medieval market town perches on a bend of the Dordogne River—an actual destination with architectural character, restaurants, a supermarket, and a Thursday morning farmers’ market that draws locals trading in seasonal produce, cheese, and wine. The town retains its 13th-century street pattern and half-timbered houses; wandering Lalinde’s compact centre takes an hour and delivers authentic Périgord atmosphere without the tourist saturation of larger settlements.

Bergerac itself (15 kilometres north) functions as the region’s commercial and cultural hub. The old town preserves buildings from the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries—particularly the riverside quays with their Renaissance facades. Bergerac hosts markets, museums, restaurants ranging from casual crêperies to Michelin-tracked establishments, and the excellent Musée du Vin (Wine Museum). The airport at Bergerac, 14 kilometres from Le Chai (approximately 20 minutes’ drive), receives direct flights from London, Paris, and other European cities, making the property highly accessible for UK-based groups.

The Dordogne’s wine reputation centres on two AOC regions located minutes from Le Chai: Monbazillac and Pécharmant, each producing distinct styles. Monbazillac specialises in sweet white wines from Sémillon grapes; the château and its visitor centre sit 15 kilometres away and welcome public tours with tastings. Pécharmant produces reds from Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Smaller independent producers—both AOC and beyond—pepper the landscape; serious oenophiles can visit four or five estates in a single day. Cooking classes and wine-pairing dinners operate throughout the region; these can be arranged in advance through local coordinators or via the on-site concierge service at Le Chai.

Medieval fortified towns punctuate the Périgord Pourpre region. Monpazier (20 kilometres), arguably the finest example, presents a perfectly preserved 13th-century bastide town—a geometric grid of arcaded streets radiating from a central square. Issigeac (15 kilometres), Eymet (18 kilometres), Beaumont (22 kilometres), and Molières (25 kilometres) each retain defensive walls, gateways, and architectural integrity. These towns emerged during the Anglo-French territorial disputes of the 12th to 15th centuries; walking their streets communicates medieval power dynamics and trade patterns more vividly than any textbook. Markets operate in most weekly; visiting Issigeac’s Sunday market provides as much cultural content as many museums.

Outdoor pursuits centre on the Dordogne River itself. Canoe hire operates from multiple points; a gentle day-trip paddles from Lalinde downstream to Bergerac, passing riverside villages and farmland. Cycling routes—both serious touring roads and casual family paths—connect the villages. Hiking trails radiate from most towns, particularly around the Périgord Noir (Black Périgord) region to the east, where limestone formations create dramatic scenery.

Gastronomy extends beyond wine. Périgord cuisine centres on truffles (black, winter season December–February), duck and goose preparations (confit, magret), walnuts, and foie gras. Market visits, cooking demonstrations, and restaurant meals all communicate these specialities. Farm stays and agricultural tours offer hands-on engagement. For destination inspiration and detailed planning, explore our Dordogne travel guide, and discover additional luxury villas throughout European countryside regions. Our full collection of French properties offers comparable estates across the country.

Summer (June–September) brings reliable weather, warm pool temperatures, and peak restaurant and market activity. May and September offer excellent conditions with fewer crowds. Winter (November–February) brings truffle season and atmospheric grey light but fewer open attractions and cooler outdoor conditions. Spring (March–April) generates wildflowers and moderate temperatures; autumn (October) delivers wine harvest activity and cooler, crisper days ideal for walking.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Multi-generational family groups find Le Chai exceptionally well-suited. The combination of six bedrooms, substantial communal spaces, and outdoor recreation zones allows grandparents, parents, teenagers, and young children to coexist without constant proximity or privacy intrusions. The heated pool, table-tennis table, and garden games occupy younger guests; the library-like quietness of certain rooms suits older guests seeking rest; the kitchen accommodates extended-family meal preparation rituals.

Professional groups or friendship circles numbering eight to fourteen benefit from the same spatial logic. Private ground-floor bedrooms suit couples who value partner proximity but also privacy; shared communal spaces encourage group mealtimes and activities while permitting smaller clusters to splinter off for cards, conversation, or viewing films independently.

Families with young children gain from the pool safety alarm system, the separation of the pool zone from the main house (reducing unsupervised-access risks), the village playground for rainy-day alternatives, and the availability of babysitting staff upon request. The property layout permits parents to monitor children across both storeys without constant shepherding.

Remote-working professionals or sabbatical groups can establish base operations at Le Chai. The reliable Wi-Fi, multiple quiet rooms, established kitchen, and absence of tourism pressure create a functional retreat for those combining work with extended travel. A chef can be arranged if meal preparation burden inhibits work focus.

Event-hosting groups—milestone birthday celebrations, anniversaries, small wedding parties—utilise Le Chai’s scale, grounds, and kitchen infrastructure. On-site maid service and optional butler/chef services transform the property from self-catering accommodation into a managed hospitality venue.

Practical Information

Le Chai accommodates 12 guests maximum across 6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. The property operates year-round, though advance booking is essential, particularly for summer months (June–September) and winter truffle season (December–February).

Bergerac Airport lies 14 kilometres away (approximately 20 minutes’ drive). London airports (Gatwick, Stansted, Luton) operate direct services; Paris services (via Orly or Charles de Gaulle) add 90 minutes’ driving. Car hire is essential; public transport connectivity in the Dordogne is minimal. An on-site concierge can arrange airport transfers, restaurant reservations, wine-tour bookings, activity guides, and chef services in advance of arrival.

Maid service is available (frequency customisable based on party size and duration). A cook/chef can be arranged to prepare dinners, accommodating group mealtimes or dietary requirements. Babysitting staff can be organised for evenings out. A butler service is available for larger parties seeking full household management.

The rental price includes Wi-Fi, cable television, linen, towels, and utility costs (heating, pool heating in season). Pets are accommodated on request (advance notice required). Pool access is year-round; heating is available autumn through spring. The property operates flexible check-in/check-out arrangements outside peak season; confirm timing during the booking process.

Frequently Asked Questions about Le Chai

How many guests does Le Chai sleep?

Le Chai accommodates 12 guests maximum across 6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. The ground floor provides three bedrooms (including the master), and the first floor provides three additional bedrooms. All bedrooms contain either king-size or queen-size double beds or twin configurations, enabling flexible guest arrangements.

What is the nearest airport to Le Chai in Saint Agne?

Bergerac Airport (Aéroport de Bergerac Périgord) lies approximately 14 kilometres from Le Chai, roughly 20 minutes’ drive via the D660 and local roads. The airport receives direct flights from London Gatwick, London Stansted, Paris Orly, and other European cities. Car hire is available at the airport; alternatively, the concierge service can arrange airport transfers in advance of your arrival.

What is the best time of year to rent Le Chai?

June through September offers warm, dry weather, heated pool conditions, and maximum restaurant and market activity. May and September provide excellent weather with reduced crowds. October brings wine harvest activity and crisp autumn light—ideal for walking. Winter (November–February) offers truffle-season dining experiences and atmospheric grey landscapes, though temperatures cool and some attractions operate limited hours. Spring (March–April) brings moderate weather and wildflowers but variable rainfall. Overall, May–June and September–October represent the optimal balance of weather, crowds, and activity availability.

Is Le Chai suitable for families with children?

Yes. The property includes a professionally installed pool safety alarm system, and the pool zone sits separated from the main house (approximately 100 metres), allowing supervised access management. A fenced children’s playground operates in the nearby hamlet (walkable distance). Babysitting can be arranged through the concierge. The property includes a baby bath. The heated pool operates year-round. Ground-floor bedrooms allow parents to maintain proximity to younger children overnight. Multiple activity zones—table tennis, badminton, giant chessboard—occupy children of varying ages during rainy periods or downtime.

What is included in the rental price at Le Chai?

The rental price includes Wi-Fi internet access throughout the property, cable television (English and US channels), all linen and towels, heating, pool heating (seasonal), and standard utility costs. Maid service, chef/cook services, babysitting, and butler services are available at additional cost and must be arranged in advance through the on-site concierge. Pet accommodation is available on request.

What restaurants and shops are near Le Chai?

The hamlet of Saint Agne itself contains no retail services. Mouleydier (5 kilometres) operates a boulangerie and basic shops. Lalinde (10 kilometres) hosts a full supermarket, restaurants, and a Thursday farmers’ market. Bergerac (15 kilometres) offers comprehensive retail, restaurant dining from casual to Michelin-tracked establishments, museums, and markets. Monbazillac (15 kilometres) provides the renowned château restaurant and winery visitor facilities. Smaller villages throughout the region—Issigeac, Eymet, Monpazier—host weekly markets and characterful restaurants. The concierge can provide restaurant recommendations, arrange reservations, and coordinate food delivery from local suppliers if advance notice is provided.