Maison Forte de Reignac and village St Léon sur Vézère

 La Maison Forte de Reignac, a fascinating house built into the cliff, oozes history and intrigue ....

It's an absolute tardis and the interior rooms take you through the ages from a pre-historic gallery to the richly-furnished Countess' bedchamber. Ancient weaponry are also on display.

The kitchen actually smells of garlic and sausages that are on show in there, which cleverly adds a sensory experience and makes you feel as if you've just stepped into someone's home. 

If you lived here, vertigo was certainly not an option with rooms on the cliff edge overlooking the Vézère river.

Finally you come to the ominous and disturbing Museum of Torture... dun dun duuun! Oh. My. Word! 

This is totally not for kids...and nor for many adults.

I lasted about one minute before hotfooting it (no pun intended) out the door, as it is gruuuuesome! 

In need of a complete change of scenery, we jumped back into the car and made our way a few minutes north to a delightfully pretty village, St Léon sur Vezère. 

I love this village. It's very peaceful and we spent a happy hour or so sitting having a  picnic watching canoeists paddle down the river. 

I could have lazed around for ever but we eventually gave up our shady seats to other tourists eyeing them up.

Trundling along the roads on the way back home we saw a sign for Les Cabanes Du Breuil with mysterious conical shaped buildings and nipped in to take a look. 

They are located within a charming, rural farm and skilfully built using the dry stone technique pre 15th century. Originally they were the rural residence of the Sarlat Benedictines. 

We wandered in and out of these curious buildings learning about the history and marvelling at their building technique with geese, hens and ducks waddling between our feet and peacocks strutting their stuff around us. 

Even the farmer's friendly dog companionably explored with us too. There was a lovely relaxed atmosphere and it was well worth a visit.

Upon arrival back at base the neighbour's dog came bounding over to greet us with a wag of its tail. Bonjour! 

But...(sigh)...all too soon the holiday was nearing the end... 

Fortunately there was one night left, which was enjoyed at Chateau Le Tour, not far from Bergerac. I've already written about this little gem of a place in another post on my blog, which can be read here.

A late afternoon swim in the stunning infinity pool and a fun evening full of laughter dining with other guests al fresco. 

Now, that's what I call a perfect ending to a holiday magnifique and I hope it's not too long before I return!