Salardine Apartments are based in a Medieval building in the centre of Chalus a lively quiet market town only 20 minutes' drive from Limoges Airport. The property caught my attention approximately 17 years ago with its beautiful stone walls and arched windows. My husband and acquired it 4 years ago and have been modernising the property to bring it up today's standards, while trying to retain its original features as much as possible. It is a labour of love. The duplex apartment is self-contained, spacious and has all that is needed for a comfortable self-catering stay. It does not have a washing machine or dishwasher, but has a small kitchenette with two small fridges. Being central there are a few bars, cafes,, bakers, banks, supermarkets, the weekly market on a Thursday or Friday and more within a few metres of the property. Although Supermarkets open for a limited hours on a Sunday, the other facilities are usually closed. The area is safe and friendly and there are communities of English, Belgium and Dutch who have been welcomed by the French. We provide bed linen, towels and a small welcome pack.

Having been lucky enough to travel myself I have preferred to stay where there is a 'home from home' feel rather than go into a hotel. For families it is expensive to stay in hotels of a good standard and to relax. The position of the apartment makes it ideal to accommodate families as well as solo travellers and couples. When I go abroad I like freedom and privacy. To be able to prepare a meal using locally sourced produce or go out for a meal or a drink on the doorstep, is a nice choice to have. Having to not worry about drinking and driving is bonus. I like guests to enjoy themselves according to their needs and how they feel - from snuggling down with a good book, watching films, playing music, shopping, cooking a meal or eating out nearby, entertaining friends, going for a stroll or sightseeing. Based in an apartment such as ours you can do any of those things easily.

Being a Medieval town there's a lot of interesting architecture nearby. One can be in the town and then within 400 metres from the property find you are in the beautiful French countryside. To go further afield a car is needed, but in Bussiere Galant Gare not far away is the train station which takes you to Limoges and other places, so one can explore the area easily. In Bussiere Galant are the swimming lakes and velo rail. The lakes are beautiful and a great area for picnics and walking. I believe people swim in the lakes. The town is very quiet on Sundays with most shops and restaurants closed so bear this in mind if you are planning to eat out. the Supermarkets open for a limited time on Sundays. There are good restaurants in towns not too far away but the majority of them will need to be booked in advance.