Resting atop an enchanting Medieval village and right next to a pristine castle lies La Maisonnette du Coteau in Beynac-et-Cazenac, France. Recently renovated, this exquisite 1,100 square foot cottage offers numerous luxuries, while maintaining a deep respect for its Medieval roots. The limestone walls and the beam ceilings on the ground level of the cottage have been preserved; the home’s exteriors and ground level blend perfectly with the other historic homes in the village. The rest of the cottage has been updated to reflect the modern needs and global travel patterns of the family who owns this home. All the armoires, tables and wood furnishings in the house were purchased in vintage shops around town.

If you are visiting France, you can stay at La Maisonnette, which is one of the most photographed homes in the village, and on several of the printed postcards found around town. Its prominent place atop the Cliffside village of Beynac-et-Cazenac affords its guests breathtaking views of the Dordogne River, the entire valley, and of the village. Enjoy a dinner or lunch outside on the terrace overlooking the canoes dotting the river, or take a bath in a claw foot tub while you gaze out across the Valley of the Five Chateau. The windows of La Maisonnette look out upon the old castle walls and the old city walls as well; the Chateau of Beynac is one of the best preserved in France. You’ll feel as if you stepped back to the 12th century!

To stay at La Maisonnette, rates ranges from $830 – $2037/week, from here.

This very same kitchen area was once used to house the village’s town oven, where village serfs would pay their lords a fee for use of the oven when baking bread.

Tolix chairs paired with what used to be an old church pew make an eclectic ensemble anchored by a live-edge table. The mix of chairs and the roominess of the bench are perfect for the family and their guests.

The master suite is located on the third floor, a converted attic. The process of “squeezing the furniture up the narrow stairs” required knocking down a small area and building the entire floor around the bed — and around the claw-foot tub.

Terry-cloth bathrobes and the day’s clothing usually hang on coat hangers by the bath. Walls are kept bare and free of hooks.

The owners travel throughout the year, living here on and off. Vacationers who rent the space on a weekly basis ensure that the home is always occupied.

A Denyse Schmidt quilt set the stage for the color scheme. A clean, white comforter looks fresh amongst the many antiques set out and about the room. One piece is from the 1600’s!

Photos: Stephanie Brubaker & Nicole Gerulat