My France – Reasons to fall in love with Dordogne
Tomas k - News Writer and Moderator 
UK-born Chris Walker and Lithuanian-born Irma Lazickiene are the owners of Chateau Masburel, in Dordogne near Bergerac. It’s been a wine domain since 1740 when Jean de Sambellie, Consul of Sainte-Foy to King Louis XV planted vines here and the couple are restoring the vineyards. With the most gorgeous B&B rooms in the chateau, plus a stunning gite in the heart of the vineyards Chris and Irma are bringing new life to the castle through its wines, tourism and events. We asked Chris to share what he loves most about France and reasons to fall in love with Dordogne.
The Dordogne Light
There is something special about the light in the Dordogne. Whether it’s an early morning mist rising from the vineyards or the golden glow of sunset across the rolling hills, the landscape seems to change character throughout the day. It is one of the reasons Château Masburel feels such a magical place to call home.
French Markets
A French market is never simply a place to shop. It is a social occasion, a celebration of local produce and a reminder that food remains at the heart of French life. I love wandering through markets filled with seasonal fruit, local cheeses, fresh bread and conversations that seem to last longer than the shopping itself.
Bergerac
Bergerac is one of my favourite towns in France. Its half-timbered buildings, charming squares and riverside setting make it endlessly enjoyable to visit. It has all the character and history people hope to find in France, yet remains wonderfully authentic and welcoming.
French Wine Culture
What I admire most about French wine is that it is treated as part of everyday life rather than a luxury. Every region has its own traditions, stories and styles. At Château Masburel, we are proud to produce organic wines that reflect the character of our corner of the Dordogne, from elegant Montravel Blanc to rich and expressive red wines.
Castles and Châteaux
France’s castles and châteaux connect you directly with history. Some are grand and famous, like the monumental Chateau de Chambord in the Loire Valley. Others are hidden among vineyards and countryside lanes. Living at Château Masburel, a property with a history stretching back centuries, is a constant reminder that we are simply custodians of a much longer story.
The French Language
The French language has a rhythm and elegance that I never tire of hearing. Even simple everyday expressions can sound beautiful. There is also something satisfying about discovering regional phrases and local accents that reveal the diversity of the country.
Walnut Cake
The Dordogne is famous for its walnuts, and one of my favourite local treats is gâteau aux noix. Rich, simple and deeply rooted in the region’s traditions, it is the perfect companion to an afternoon coffee—or perhaps a glass of Chateau Masburel Moelleux wine.
Village Life
Some of France’s greatest pleasures are found in its villages. The church bells, the village cafés, the annual fêtes and the sense of community all create a pace of life that can feel increasingly rare in the modern world.
History Around Every Corner
One of the joys of living in France is that history is never far away. Medieval towns, ancient churches, market squares and centuries-old farmhouses are woven into everyday life. In the Dordogne, it often feels as though every road leads to another fascinating story.
Sharing a Bottle with Friends
Perhaps my favourite thing of all is the French appreciation of taking time to enjoy good company. Whether it’s a long lunch, a family gathering or a summer evening overlooking the vines, sharing a bottle of wine with friends remains one of life’s simplest and greatest pleasures.
France is celebrated around the world for its culture, food and wine, but what I appreciate most is the way these things come together in daily life. For me, nowhere captures that spirit better than the Dordogne, where history, landscape, gastronomy and wine continue to create something truly special.
Chris and Irma love to share their chateau home with guests, they also run Chateau Experience tours – showing the day-to-day work in preparing the vines and making wine, plus wine tasting visits: chateau-masburel.com
The post My France – Reasons to fall in love with Dordogne appeared first on The Good Life France.
