About Us

Our Story

We’re Sarah and Paul and together with our three adopted French cats Mango, Noodle and Pepita, we welcome travellers from all over the world to share our little piece of paradise here at La Vieille Gorce. Only five years ago we decided to up sticks and move from New Zealand, where we had lived for 10 years, to embark on a new adventure in south-west France. Our dream was to create a peaceful and tranquil oasis surrounded by nature and wildlife and the goal was to provide an idyllic escape away from the noise and bustle of city life but with all the modern comforts of a luxury home.

In other words it had to be a place where we would dream of spending a holiday.

In hindsight it could have been a complete disaster. What were we thinking?

It hasn’t all been plain sailing, like the water boiler in one of the gites spilling its entire contents half an hour before the guests arrived! The pool turning green only a couple of hours before a bride and groom were arriving for their honeymoon! And the wedding guest that got lost walking back from a wedding at a nearby chateau, mobile phone dead, girlfriend in tears calling the police as we went in search at 4am! We all survived and can smile about it now.

Commitment

About Us

It is true to say that chasing the dream continues to be one big adventure. There are of course ongoing challenges along the way, the Pandemic being a big one, but nevertheless we believe that what we have achieved so far is truly wonderful. We love to hear from our guests and what they tell us makes us feel really proud and that all the blood, sweat and tears over the last few years makes it all worthwhile.

Here’s a little taster to set the scene: Imagine hearing nothing but the birds chirruping whilst watching hummingbird moths feed on lavender nectar. Picture yourself watching the swallows dip in and out of the pool as you recline on your sun bed, then sitting on your private terrace in the evening with a glass of your favourite tipple watching the sunset, and laying on the warm grass looking up at the vastness of the Milky Way.

However, if all this relaxing is too much you could always explore the nearby historic villages and markets and have a mooch about at the numerous brocantes. Take a guided tour and discover the Benedictine Abbey in Charroux, founded in 785 by Roger, Count of Limoges. The abbey was said to have possessed the Holy Prepuce, the foreskin of Jesus, which was allegedly given to the monks by Charlemagne, King of the Franks from 768 to 814 !!!

If you’re feeling energetic there are miles of walking and cycle paths (chemins) right from your door. If you’re feeling really energetic, you could try kayaking down the Vienne river or go crazy and try a bungy jump from the viaduct at l’Isle Jourdain.

To sum up, here at La Vieille Gorce, there is everything you need to switch off, wind down and re-charge, whether it’s for a few days, a couple of weeks or just an overnight stopover.

Our underlying philosophy is ‘our place is your place’. Having lived in the UK, New Zealand and France and travelled in many countries around the world it is our pleasure to offer our own unique hospitality to you in this beautiful part of France.

If you’re a more independent traveller a self-contained gite is for you. If you prefer a more personal connection then the bed & breakfast will be the perfect choice.

Whether you are travelling as a family, a couple, with friends or a solo traveller you are warmly welcomed at our place.

What to do now? Check for availability on the calendar and start packing!

We look forward to seeing you.