Maison Billot is a chambres d'hôtes situated in the medieval heart of Treignac, designated one of the 'most beautiful villages of France. It is a very typical French town retaining much of its medieval character. Founded around 800 AD, its first Chateau or Castle was built around the year 1000 on an inaccessible rock outcrop on a loop of the Vezere and at the same time the city walls were commenced of which the Chabirande gate of the 13th century still survives although the ramparts were destroyed at the start of the 19th century. Much of the town dates from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries whilst also preserving its medieval charm. The beautifully preserved Market hall in the town, directly opposite Maison Billot, was originally built in the 12th century but rebuilt in the 15th century after being destroyed by warring factions. Also of note are the church, Notre-Dame-des-Bans, dating back to the 13C, and the Chapel of the Penitents built in the 17th century. Situated on the banks of the River Vezere it is on one of the pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostella, the burial place of St James the Apostle, along the way known as the Via Lemovicensis which crosses the 13th-century bridge over the river.

We originally visited Treignac in 2017 when looking for a place to relocate to from the North of England after growing tired of living in the rat race and working very long hours, hardly seeing each other for days at a time. We instantly fell in love with the town and the area which offers so much for lovers of the outdoors. We have spent the last two years renovating the house which hadn't been lived in for over 20 years. With the building dating back to 1793 we have tried to retain as much of the character as we can whilst offering a comfortable and friendly place to stay.

We spend much of the time, when not looking after our guests, exploring this lovely area with our four dogs, Max, Stan, Jess and Libby and the area is perfect for long dog walks. I am also a keen cyclist and am still taken aback as to how quiet the roads are around here which is perfect for cycling.

Andy and Alison.