Château Chouette Puyraud Étouars: 5-Bedroom Converted Barn with Heated Pool & Panoramic Views

This exceptional luxury villa rental in Etouars invites you to experience the serene beauty of northern Dordogne from a beautifully converted stone barn crowned with charming blue shutters and climbing roses. Château Chouette Puyraud Étouars sits on an elevated hilltop position, offering sweeping panoramic views across rolling countryside that stretches toward the horizon in every direction. Accommodating up to 10 guests across five generous bedrooms, this property delivers an authentic yet refined French retreat where rustic heritage meets contemporary comfort in one of the Dordogne’s most peaceful corners.

Inside Château Chouette Puyraud Étouars

Step through the doors of this lovingly restored barn and you are immediately greeted by an expansive open-plan living and dining area that captures the essence of elegant country living. Exposed stone walls and original timber beams frame the space, while large windows flood the interior with natural light and frame those remarkable countryside vistas. The living area is furnished with plush sofas and inviting armchairs, creating a warm gathering point for evenings spent together after long days exploring the region.

The well-equipped open-plan kitchen stands ready for culinary adventures, fitted with modern appliances including a dishwasher and an extra wine fridge, an essential addition given the proximity to some of France’s most celebrated wine regions. Generous counter space and quality cookware make preparing meals for the whole group a pleasure rather than a chore. The dining area flows seamlessly from the kitchen, offering a convivial space where guests can linger over long, leisurely meals.

On the ground floor, a beautifully appointed bedroom features a king-size double bed and an en suite bathroom complete with a bathtub and overhead shower, providing a private sanctuary ideal for those who prefer to avoid stairs. Upstairs, additional bedrooms are thoughtfully arranged to offer privacy and comfort for families and groups alike. Each sleeping space has been decorated with a refined country aesthetic, combining soft linens, tasteful furnishings, and gentle colour palettes that encourage restful sleep. With four bathrooms serving the five bedrooms, morning routines remain stress-free even when the property is at full capacity. Satellite TV and WiFi connectivity are available throughout, ensuring guests can stay entertained and connected whenever they wish.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

The outdoor spaces at Château Chouette Puyraud Étouars are nothing short of spectacular. The heated swimming pool takes centre stage, surrounded by sun-drenched terraces where loungers await those ready to soak up the Dordogne sunshine. After a swim, retreat to the on-site spa and sauna facilities for a deeply restorative experience without ever leaving the property grounds.

Al fresco dining comes naturally here, with a dedicated barbecue area that makes outdoor suppers a nightly ritual. Imagine grilling locally sourced meats and vegetables as the sun dips below the hills, casting golden light across the gardens. The property also features a private tennis court, providing active entertainment for competitive spirits in the group. The surrounding grounds are lush and well-maintained, with ample space for children to run and play freely. Cyclists will find the quiet country lanes around this luxury villa rental in Etouars to be an absolute dream, with routes winding through sunflower fields, past ancient farmsteads, and into picturesque villages.

Exploring Etouars and Beyond

Northern Dordogne is a region of understated beauty, where time moves at a gentler pace and the landscape feels untouched by mass tourism. The charming village of Nontron, approximately 15 minutes by car, is home to artisan knife-makers and a vibrant weekly market brimming with local produce, cheeses, and fresh-baked bread. The medieval town of Brantôme, often called the Venice of the Périgord, lies around 40 minutes to the south and rewards visitors with its riverside abbey, kayaking opportunities, and excellent restaurants.

Angoulême, a dynamic city renowned for its comic strip murals and annual international comics festival, is roughly 45 minutes to the northwest. Périgueux, the Dordogne’s capital, sits about an hour to the south and offers a wealth of Gallo-Roman history, a magnificent cathedral, and one of the finest food markets in all of France. For those seeking deeper immersion into the Bergerac area, the renowned vineyards and bastide towns to the south provide wonderful day-trip possibilities.

We invite you to explore our luxury villas in Etouars for alternative properties in this tranquil corner of France. You can also check our full collection of villas in France to discover other extraordinary destinations across the country.

Perfect for Families and Groups

Château Chouette Puyraud Étouars is exceptionally well suited to multi-generational family holidays and gatherings of friends. The combination of five bedrooms, four bathrooms, and expansive communal living spaces means everyone has room to breathe while still enjoying quality time together. Children will delight in the heated pool, the tennis court, and the wide-open grounds that offer safe and stimulating outdoor play. The spa and sauna provide a welcome retreat for adults seeking relaxation after active days.

The kitchen’s generous proportions and modern equipment make self-catering straightforward, while the washing machine ensures you can pack light for longer stays. Cycling routes on quiet roads directly from the property are suitable for various fitness levels, and the region’s many châteaux, caves, and adventure parks keep younger guests endlessly entertained. The peaceful countryside setting, far from busy tourist circuits, creates an atmosphere of genuine relaxation that families and friend groups return to year after year.

Property Details and Practical Information

This luxury villa rental in Etouars accommodates up to 10 guests across 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. The property includes a heated swimming pool, spa and sauna, private tennis court, BBQ facilities, a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher and wine fridge, satellite TV, WiFi, and a washing machine. The hilltop location provides ample private parking and easy access by car. The converted barn’s ground-floor bedroom with en suite bathroom offers accessible accommodation for guests with limited mobility. All utilities, pool heating, and use of recreational facilities are typically included in the rental price. Bed linens and towels are provided, and the property is cleaned before arrival and after departure.

Best For

This Etouars property is ideal for: families with children seeking a safe, spacious countryside retreat; multi-generational groups who value both togetherness and privacy; couples travelling with friends who appreciate fine food, wine, and outdoor activities; and anyone looking to experience authentic rural France away from crowded tourist areas while still enjoying luxury amenities and modern comforts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the nearest airport and transfer time?

A: The closest airports are Limoges-Bellegarde (approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car) and Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport (around 1 hour 30 minutes). Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport offers wider international connections and is roughly 2 hours away by road. Angoulême-Cognac Airport is approximately 45 minutes from the property.

Q: What is the best time to visit?

A: The Dordogne is glorious from May through October. June and September offer warm weather, fewer visitors, and lower rates. July and August bring the highest temperatures, ideal for pool days, along with lively village festivals and bustling markets. Spring and early autumn are perfect for cycling, hiking, and wine tasting in comfortable conditions.

Q: What is the minimum stay?

A: The typical minimum stay is 7 nights during peak summer season (July and August). Shorter stays of 3 to 5 nights may be available during shoulder and low seasons, subject to availability.

Q: What is included in the rental?

A: The rental includes all utilities, WiFi, satellite TV, pool heating, use of the spa/sauna and tennis court, bed linens, bath towels, and end-of-stay cleaning. A welcome pack with local essentials is often provided upon arrival.

Q: Is there a supermarket nearby?

A: The nearest convenience shops and bakeries can be found in the surrounding villages within a 10 to 15 minute drive. Larger supermarkets, including Intermarché and Super U, are available in Nontron (approximately 15 minutes) and Piégut-Pluviers (around 10 minutes), both of which also host excellent weekly markets.

Q: Is the heated pool available throughout the rental season?

A: Yes, the pool is heated to ensure comfortable swimming temperatures from the start of the season in spring through to autumn. This extends the usable pool season well beyond the warmest summer months, making it enjoyable even during cooler May or October stays at Château Chouette Puyraud Étouars.