Le Prieure Esperance | 4-Bedroom Villa in Sainte Mondane Cazoules

Eight guests arrive at Le Prieure Esperance expecting a holiday home. They leave having experienced something far rarer: a 17th-century stone presbytery that has somehow bridged four centuries without losing its soul. Perched above the Dordogne valley near Sainte Mondane, this restored manor house sits at the crossroads between genuine French countryside comfort and discreet contemporary luxury—the kind of place where heated saltwater pools and Michelin-trained chefs feel like natural extensions of a long, unhurried afternoon rather than glossy add-ons.

Inside Le Prieure Esperance

Le Prieure Esperance sleeps 8 guests across 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, arranged across three distinct living levels that function as separate worlds.

On the main floor, accessed via stone steps, the lounge anchors the social life of the villa—a room built around an open fireplace that draws guests in even on mild evenings. The dining area commands attention with its grand stone fireplace, the kind that makes ordinary meals feel ceremonial. The kitchen, fitted with a full complement of appliances (induction hob, convection oven, dishwasher, substantial fridge-freezer), opens onto a summer kitchen equally well-equipped with an oven range, microwave, separate refrigeration and ice machine—a telling detail for guests serious about cooking or working with the on-site chef service. One bedroom with a 180x190cm king bed and multi-jet shower completes this level.

The mezzanine upper level houses two additional bedrooms. The first contains twin 140x190cm double beds with television and an en-suite featuring both bath and separate shower. The second offers a 180x190cm king bed, TV and Italian shower. Both rooms share a separate WC—a practical arrangement for groups travelling together who value some independence.

The garden level presents the most self-contained sleeping quarters: a substantial suite with a 200x200cm bed, its own lounge area with television, and a bathroom featuring both bath and walk-in shower. This level functions almost as a private apartment within the larger property, ideal for guests seeking retreat or families wanting to establish a quiet zone away from group activity.

Throughout the villa, original oak beams and exposed stone walls create visual continuity without heaviness. The furnishings—an intentional blend of medieval and Eastern textile traditions—establish atmosphere without dominating the space. Smart TVs with Now TV access, DVD players, WiFi connectivity and a dedicated workstation with printer reflect the reality of contemporary travel, where work and leisure have become fluid rather than separate.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

The grounds of Le Prieure Esperance operate on a generous scale. The heated saltwater pool measures 5×10 metres, enclosed by safety railings and covered with an electric system when not in use. Unlike chlorinated alternatives, the mineral salt environment feels markedly gentler on skin and eyes—a distinction guests notice immediately on their first swim. The pool season typically runs mid-May through mid-September, though earlier or later opening can be arranged by prior request.

Beyond the pool terrace lies the al-fresco dining area, positioned to catch afternoon and evening light. A barbecue and electric plancha (Spanish griddle) sit ready for simpler meals, while the manicured gardens surrounding the villa create natural sightlines toward the valley and river below. A stone courtyard with a central fountain provides shaded gathering space, and a public hiking trail runs adjacent to the property boundaries—convenient for morning walks without needing to drive.

The courtyard also houses a separate 17th-century chapel, a small independent structure that functions as a heated and air-conditioned reception or music room. Fitted with a HK Lucas Performer music system compatible with iPhone and streaming devices, it bridges religious history and contemporary entertainment seamlessly. Many guests rent the chapel for private dinners, celebrations or simply as an intimate alternative to the main house for evening gatherings.

Location: Sainte Mondane and the Surrounding Area

Sainte Mondane sits less than 2km from the Dordogne riverbank in the Périgord countryside, positioning Le Prieure Esperance at the heart of France’s most architecturally significant and gastronomically celebrated region. The location offers immediate access to river activities (canoeing, kayaking and traditional boat trips depart regularly) while placing you within easy reach of destinations that have drawn travellers for centuries.

Sarlat-la-Canéda lies 20km away and functions as the cultural capital of the region. The old town, with medieval and renaissance architecture threading through narrow lanes, hosts a twice-weekly market famous throughout France for truffles and foie gras. The cathedral commands the central square, and independent shops showcase local charcuterie, wines and artisanal products. The market experience—Wednesday mornings and Saturday mornings—captures the rhythm of Périgord life more authentically than any museum.

Domme, classified as one of France’s Plus Beaux Villages (Most Beautiful Villages), sits 16km distant atop limestone cliffs overlooking the river valley. La Roque-Gageac (21km) represents the other jewel of riverside village life, its honey-coloured stone houses reflected in water that has inspired artists and writers for generations. Château de Beynac (28km), one of the Dordogne’s finest medieval fortifications, remains remarkably intact and offers guided tours exploring centuries of regional history.

Château de Fénelon is easily accessible from Le Prieure Esperance, while a small village 4.5km away hosts a Thursday morning market for daily provisions and informal meals. Additional markets operate in Souillac (17km) and throughout summer villages offer evening markets combining food, local wine and live music—an ideal introduction to Périgord gastronomy without formal restaurant commitments.

The region rewards exploration on foot or by bicycle. Public viewing points near the villa offer panoramic perspectives across the river valley, particularly striking at sunrise and golden hour. For destination inspiration and activity planning, explore our Dordogne travel guide covering seasonal events, wine routes and cultural sites. Additional luxury accommodations in the region can be found through our European villa collection and French properties.

Bordeaux airport (approximately 90km distant, roughly 90 minutes by car) offers international connectivity, while Bergerac airport (50km away, approximately 50 minutes) serves European routes. The drive from either airport traverses the Périgord countryside, offering early introduction to the landscape you’ll explore throughout your stay.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Le Prieure Esperance functions exceptionally well for multi-generational family groups. The four separate bedroom suites mean grandparents can occupy the garden-level suite and maintain evening privacy while grandchildren sleep on the mezzanine, parents on the main floor. The heated pool, board games, table tennis, children’s toys and babysitting service make the property genuinely functional for families with young children. The presence of cooking classes and chef service means parents seeking respite from meal preparation have legitimate alternatives to restaurant dining.

Groups of friends—particularly those accustomed to travelling together—benefit from the villa’s scale and semi-independent bedroom arrangements. The chapel functions beautifully for private celebrations, while the main dining room accommodates eight comfortably for shared meals. The maid service and optional chef eliminate housekeeping burdens and create space for genuine social connection rather than logistical management.

Couples seeking a luxury base for exploring the Dordogne find the property neither isolating nor overwhelming. The garden-level suite offers complete privacy, while proximity to markets, villages and cultural sites means leaving the property remains appealing rather than optional.

The availability of pre-stocked fridges, breakfast service and chef coordination makes the property particularly suited to guests who prioritise time and convenience over logistical problem-solving. Transfers from airports can be arranged, supporting visitors who prefer not to navigate unfamiliar roads upon arrival.

Practical Information

Le Prieure Esperance sleeps 8 guests: 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, with an optional two-storey annexe available on the broader estate for up to 2 additional guests (pricing and availability by enquiry). All bedrooms include en-suite facilities except the mezzanine bedrooms, which share a single WC.

The property operates year-round. The heated pool season runs mid-May through mid-September. Winter months offer an alternative appeal—lower guest density in regional towns, more restaurant reservation availability in Sarlat, reduced summer market crowds and the distinctive beauty of Dordogne valleys under autumn and winter light.

The rental includes heating, air-conditioning, WiFi, linen, towels, pool heating during season, laundry facilities (washing machine and dryer), and access to all recreational amenities (table tennis, board games, pool inflatables). The pre-stocked fridge service means arrival with basic provisions already in place. Cleaning service is available; breakfast, chef service, babysitting and cooking classes are arranged separately at additional cost.

Nearest supermarket services: the small village 4.5km away provides essentials and market shopping. Sarlat-la-Canéda (20km) offers comprehensive shopping for any items the property doesn’t provide. Fresh produce from local markets often provides superior alternatives to supermarket shopping at half the cost.

Check-in flexibility depends on availability; discussions regarding early arrival or late departure should be arranged well in advance of your travel dates.

Frequently Asked Questions about Le Prieure Esperance

How many guests does Le Prieure Esperance sleep?

Le Prieure Esperance sleeps 8 guests as standard: a 180x190cm king bed (main floor), twin 140x190cm double beds (mezzanine), a 180x190cm king bed (mezzanine), and a 200x200cm king bed (garden level suite). An optional two-storey annexe can accommodate 2 additional guests; availability and pricing require separate enquiry.

What is the nearest airport to Le Prieure Esperance in Sainte Mondane?

Bergerac Airport (50km away, approximately 50 minutes by car) serves most European destinations and offers the most direct transfer option. Bordeaux Airport (90km distant, approximately 90 minutes drive) provides broader international flight options. Airport transfers can be arranged as part of your booking.

What is the best time of year to rent Le Prieure Esperance?

May through September offers warm weather, fully operational heated pool facilities and active regional events and markets. June and September provide ideal conditions—warm enough for swimming and outdoor dining, yet avoiding peak summer tourist density in Sarlat and regional villages. April and October offer pleasant spring and autumn weather (approximately 15-18°C) suitable for hiking and exploring without summer heat intensity. Winter visits appeal to those seeking solitude and authentic village life without tourist infrastructure.

Is Le Prieure Esperance suitable for families with children?

Yes. The property includes babysitting service, children’s games and toys, pool inflatables, pushchair facilities and a heated saltwater pool with safety railings and electric cover. The ground-level suite provides secure sleeping space for young children with parental supervision from adjacent areas. The regional abundance of family-friendly activities—river boat trips, village exploration, market visits, cooking classes—creates naturally engaging days. Nearby beaches and swimming areas along the Dordogne River offer alternatives if land-based pool time becomes monotonous.

What is included in the rental price at Le Prieure Esperance?

Standard inclusions: heating, air-conditioning, WiFi, all linen and towels, pool heating (mid-May through mid-September), laundry facilities, recreational equipment (table tennis, board games, pool inflatables), smart TVs with Now TV access, DVD player, workstation and printer access, local and national telephone calling, and access to the chapel music room. Pre-stocked fridge service and maid service are available. Chef service, cooking classes, breakfast service, babysitting and airport transfers are optional add-ons arranged at additional cost.

What restaurants and shops are near Le Prieure Esperance?

The village 4.5km away provides everyday shopping and casual dining. Sarlat-la-Canéda (20km) contains dozens of restaurants ranging from casual bistros to Michelin-recognised fine dining, plus independent food shops specialising in truffles, foie gras, local wines and charcuterie. Markets in Sarlat (Wednesday and Saturday mornings) offer fresh produce, prepared foods and artisanal goods. Souillac (17km) and surrounding villages host weekly markets and seasonal evening markets combining food stalls and local entertainment. On-site chef service eliminates dependency on restaurant availability for formal dinners.