Frequently Asked Questions
This is everything you need to know about staying at Beaux Souvenirs, your adults-only North Dordogne retreat.
The Accommodation
How many guests can stay at Beaux Souvenirs?
The gîte comfortably sleeps four adults in 2 double bedrooms.
Is the property suitable for young children?
Beaux Souvenirs is adults-only (18+). This ensures a peaceful environment for all our guests.
Will you accept children at all?
We would consider accepting a single responsible child over the age of 15.
What facilities are included?
You'll enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable living area, a modern bathroom, fast WiFi, work-friendly space, a private garden, a gas BBQ, and exclusive use of our 12m x 6m swimming pool. We also provide Egyptian cotton bed linen, towels, and pool towels. Guests may use the gym and also enjoy a personal tour of the fashion museum.
What are the dimensions of the beds?
The beds are French and measure 160cm wide x 200cm deep.
Is the pool heated?
The pool is unheated and typically open from late May through to the end of September, depending on the weather. We'll let you know the exact dates when you book.
Will we have to clean the pool during our stay?
No, your hosts clean the pool daily in the early morning (weather permitting)!
Is there air conditioning?
The gîte has traditional thick stone walls that keep the ground level naturally cool during summer. We also provide fans for the bedrooms. Winter heating is included.
Do you allow pets?
For the benefit of all our guests, we do not accept pets
Booking & Practical Information
What are your check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is from 5:00 PM, and check-out is by 10:00 AM.
What is your minimum stay?
Our minimum stay is typically 7 nights during peak season (June-September) and 4 nights during other periods. Please check our booking calendar for specific dates.
How do we pay?
We accept bank transfers to our Co-operative Bank account in the UK. A 25% deposit is required to confirm your booking, with the balance due 10 weeks before arrival.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please refer to our Terms & Conditions page for full details. We recommend travel insurance to protect your booking.
Do we need to bring anything?
We provide all essentials, including bed linen, towels, and pool towels. You might want to bring beach towels for lake visits, walking shoes, sun hats, binoculars and any specialist items you prefer.
How do we pay for goods and services?
All shops accept credit/debit cards, except the village restaurant (Casa O), which accepts cash only. Generally, market traders and car boot sales accept only cash. The nearest cashpoint is a ten-minute drive in Credit Agricole, La Coquille.
Location & Access
How far is the nearest airport? Limoges Airport is just 45 minutes away with regular flights from the UK. Bordeaux and Bergerac airports are approximately 2.5/1.5 hours away, respectively. We can recommend car hire companies.
Is a car necessary in the Dordogne?
Yes, we strongly recommend having a car. While the village is walkable, you'll want a vehicle to explore the beautiful Dordogne region, visit restaurants, and enjoy day trips to châteaux, markets, and attractions.
Is there public transport in the Dordogne?
There is no public transport outside of the cities of Perigueux and Bergerac. Mialet is a ten-minute drive from La Coquille, where you can take a train to Limoges or Perigueux and on to Bordeaux. Taxis are possible but very expensive.
How do we find you?
We're located at 2 Rue des Grives, Mialet, just 10 minutes from the N21. We'll send you detailed directions and our contact numbers before your arrival. Sat nav coordinates work perfectly.
Where do we park?
Right outside the gite front door, making it very easy to pack and unpack the car. The gite is within the walls of the main coach house.
What's in Mialet village?
Mialet is a charming village with a bakery (fresh croissants daily!), butcher, epicerie (also serving breakfast and lunch), an eco shop, a brasserie, a hairdresser, a post office and the beautiful Barrage de Mialet lake. There is also a small Tuesday AM market and a Pizza van on Tuesday and Friday evenings. Everything is within easy walking distance.
Where's the nearest supermarket?
The nearest supermarkets are in La Coquille (10 minutes), Thiviers (20 minutes), and Chalus (20 minutes). These towns have weekly markets, pharmacies, cash points, petrol stations and all amenities.
The Fashion Museum
What is the fashion museum?
Our on-site museum houses a carefully curated collection of 20th-century women's clothing and accessories. Each piece has its own story, offering a fascinating glimpse into fashion history and social change.
When can we visit?
Complimentary private tours are available exclusively to guests at a time that suits your schedule. Just let us know when you'd like to visit—we're very flexible!
How long is the tour?
Tours typically last 60-90 minutes, but we're happy to adapt to your interests. Fashion enthusiasts often spend longer!
Is the museum suitable for non-fashion enthusiasts?
Absolutely! The collection offers insights into social history, women's lives through the decades, and the craftsmanship of different eras. Many guests are surprised by how engaging it is.
Can we purchase vintage items?
Yes! Guests can browse and shop our exclusive vintage studio collection. You might find a designer treasure to take home.
Your Stay
Will you be on-site?
Yes, Vanessa and William live on the property, but your gîte is entirely private and self-contained. We're available if you need anything, but respect your privacy completely.
Do you speak English?
Yes! We're English-speaking hosts, which makes everything easy for UK guests. We also speak some French.
What's included in the welcome?
You'll find a chilled bottle of local wine, a hamper with regional specialities, detailed maps, and our personal recommendations for restaurants, markets, and attractions. We also provide updates on current events during your stay.
Are you available for recommendations?
Absolutely! We love helping guests discover the best of the region- from hidden restaurants to secret spots. We're always happy to share insider tips.
What if we need help during our stay?
We're on-site and available by phone. Whether it's a question about the property, directions to an attraction, or restaurant recommendations, we're here to help.
Local Area & Activities
What's the best time to visit?
Every season has its charm! Spring (April-June) offers beautiful weather, an abundance of wild flowers and fewer crowds. Summer (July-August) is the warmest, with festivals and markets. Autumn (September-October) brings truffle season, harvest festivals, and stunning foliage.
What activities are nearby?
The region offers golf, horse riding, swimming lakes, zip-lining, the unique Velorail bike adventure, extensive walking and cycling trails, and countless historic sites. We provide detailed information on arrival.
Where are the best restaurants?
We have 6 Michelin-starred restaurants within an hour's drive! We'll share our personal favourites for everything from casual bistros to exceptional occasion dining, plus the best local markets for picnic supplies.
Are there good walking routes?
Excellent walks surround us, including scenic routes around the Barrage de Mialet lake and through the Perigord-Limousin Nature Park. We provide maps and recommendations based on your fitness level.
What about markets and shopping?
The region is famous for weekly markets selling local produce, crafts, and antiques. We'll let you know which markets are on during your stay. There are also excellent brocantes (antique markets) and vide-greniers (car boot sales) throughout the summer.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help!
Contact us at: 📧 yourfrenchstay@gmail.com 📱 UK: +44 7736 066768 📱 France: +33 6 83 69 89 35 We typically respond within 24 hours and look forward to welcoming you to Beaux Souvenirs!