Maison Notre Dame

The villa

Beyond the gates and beautiful garden, Maison Notre Dame offers a nostalgic step back in time. This former Maison de Maître stands proudly in the heart of Ribérac, its shuttered windows and traditional stone façade a quiet tribute to classical French architecture.

Within its walls, a gentle elegance unfolds - rooms are generous and character shines, from old paintings and traditional furnishings to the low-beams and antique touches. The toll of nearby church bells punctuates the day with an old-world rhythm, grounding you in a place that has known years of townhouse charm.

Inside, the living spaces invite you to unwind. A trio of sitting rooms offers comfort and character, with sofas, armchairs, a grand piano and a study. The contemporary kitchen, with its central island and American-style fridge, is both functional and sociable, opening onto the courtyard for easy al fresco dining.

Upstairs, five individually styled bedrooms ensure restful nights, many with en-suite facilities and charming quirks. The games room outside with table tennis and table football is a welcome touch for families, while Wi-Fi throughout keeps you connected.

It’s rare for a townhouse have such a verdant and expansive garden filled with roses, palms and mature trees, a world away from the bustle beyond the gates. Stone steps lead up to the elevated pool terrace where a private heated pool glistens in the sun, framed by sun loungers.

Ribérac itself hums with local life. Just a short walk brings you to boulangeries, cafés, and the famous Friday market bursting with regional produce. From bee gardens to Romanesque churches, the area is steeped in history and discovery.

For wonderful days out nearby, Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, Brantôme and Périgueux offer culture, history and culinary delights within easy reach.

For those who seek a traditional French escape with space to breathe and time to slow down, Maison Notre Dame offers a slice of Dordogne charm where every bell toll and every breeze through the trees adds to the timeless rhythm of your stay.

In the northern Dordogne, Ribérac is a quintessential market town that charms with its warm character, lively spirit and enviable location.

Here you are in the heart of the town - listen to the church bells from the neighbouring church and stroll to tree-shaded cafés, bakeries, shops and the striking Collégiale Ribérac. Fridays are truly special here, when the town bursts into life with one of Périgord’s most renowned markets, a sensory feast of seasonal produce, fine cheeses, handmade crafts and more.

Set just south of the Dronne River, Ribérac is also a hub for outdoor adventure. In summer, the river’s gentle flow invites canoeing and kayaking, an idyllic way to explore the verdant surrounds and tranquil waterscapes. Within a short drive, discover expansive Forêt de la Double, where shaded trails, hidden lakes and abundant wildlife await. At its heart lies Le Grand Étang de La Jemaye (15km), a family-friendly lake with supervised swimming, nature paths and lakeside picnicking in the height of the summer.

For history lovers, the surrounding countryside is peppered with fortified Romanesque churches and timeless villages, while nearby Aubeterre-sur-Dronne (18km) astonishes with its subterranean monolithic church, artisan studios and river beach perfect for a family day out.

Venture further afield to the ‘Venice of the Périgord’, Brantôme (38km), where riverside walks and abbey visits offer a tranquil change of pace, or delve into the green hills of the Parc naturel régional Périgord-Limousin to discover Nontron’s knife-making legacy, less than an hour away

The elegant city of Périgueux (38km) promises Roman heritage and gourmet delights, while Bergerac’s medieval lanes and riverside setting tempt around 55km by car. Whether wandering market stalls, gliding down the Dronne or sipping wine in the sunshine, Ribérac is your perfect base to experience the soul of northern Dordogne.