It's seldom completely silent at Toumassou Haut. The six acres of private woods surrounding the house ensure the whispering of summer breezes and the enthusiastic chatter of bird life.
From the Marnac Valley that spreads out below our paved terrace youll hear the sounds of livestock and even the occasional distant hum of farm equipment and don't worry if M. Lombard suddenly appears, driving a flock of sheep up the driveway to one of the neighbouring meadows.

Even the baker's van pulling up during the afternoon at local farm houses to deliver baguettes, offers the occasional interruption.
And when our family is staying here, you usually hear the sounds of cooking in our kitchen, or the voices of our children and their friends happily exploring among the meadows and trees.

Toumassou Haut has been in our family for three generations. But its thick stone walls and some of the oak beams go back many hundreds of years. Our total renovation, completed just a few months ago, ensures the house is modern, comfortable and fully equipped. We have retained as many of the original details as possible, such as the walk-in stone fire place. Even Sartre and De Beauvoir, who were friends of my grandfather, would recognize the dining room where they spent many evenings.

You enter Toumassou, via the terrace, into our large kitchen. We are shameless and enthusiastic foodies. Whether your idea of a vacation is cooking five-course Perigordine dinners, or you tend more towards simple salads, local cheeses and pates, you will find all you need. Our antique farmhouse table seats eight with comfort, but many summer guests prefer to eat at the outdoor table under the shaded trellis on the terrace. But be warned; a quick lunch on the terrace often seems to linger on into the early evening.

Also downstairs is a separate light filled sitting room. The furniture includes a sofa bed that is actually comfortable for two to sleep on. There is a small stereo, DVD player, a variety of books and board games.

Upstairs, the master bedroom opens onto its own private terrace. A dormer window gives views out across the valley. The twin bedroom across the landing is ideal for children but has beds more than big enough for adults. There is a bathroom (shower) with separate WC, plus an additional WC downstairs.

We have tried to anticipate all the minor details. Washer-drier, BBQ, patio furniture, infants cot, child safety features even bikes are all there to be enjoyed. Cleans linens and towels are provided, but with some nice river beaches just down the road you'll probably want to bring additional outside towels.