Domaine La Gazaille de Camille: A Family Dream in France
From Malta to a Lot-et-Garonne Holiday Home
This peaceful retreat in Lot-et-Garonne, is run by Lorraine and her son Steven. I spoke with them about their move from Malta and the journey that brought new life to an old French château. What they’ve created here is more than just a place to stay it’s a home they now share with their guests.
Even though Lot-et-Garonne isn’t technically part of the Dordogne, the area has that same relaxed rhythm and welcoming feel. That’s exactly why their story fits so well on Dordogne Travel Guide.
Lorraine’s dream of starting fresh in France began after a serious accident in 2020. It was a turning point that led her together with her sons to rethink everything. They left Malta behind and went looking for something completely new.
They found it in a petit château near Castelmoron-sur-Lot, built in 1838. Steven says it was love at first sight. There were long family discussions, of course, but in the end, the choice felt right. With help from a Maltese estate agent living in the Dordogne, they were able to make it theirs.
In October 2023, they moved in. Since then, their days have been filled with renovation work, language learning, and getting to know the community. Lorraine now divides her time between Malta and France, while Steven has stayed to run the guesthouse. His brother eventually returned to Malta.
A Home Built with Care and Character
Steven and Lorraine, who both love design, did the decorating themselves aiming to respect the original feel of the place. Not everything went smoothly. Rain in the office meant buckets on the floor, and the glamping tents left by the previous owners didn’t survive the storms. Still, they kept going.
The property covers a large area, and there’s always something that needs attention. They do have help from a gardener, but with this much land, there’s no such thing as a quiet week. Steven admits it can feel like the work never ends but getting up and seeing progress, even little steps, makes it all worth it.
Life at This Lot-et-Garonne Holiday Home
Creating a Stay with Personality
Most people come here to take a break from their busy lives. It’s really quiet here, and you finally get the chance to do nothing for a bit read a book, have a long breakfast, or just sit outside and enjoy where you are. Steven says it’s always nice when guests tell him they slept really well or felt completely relax. That kind of reaction makes all the effort worth it.
From Château to Gîte – and What’s Next
The main house and the separate gîte are ready for guests, but Steven and Lorraine are still working on new ideas. Right now, they’re busy turning the old barn into a small café and maybe even an art space later on. They’d love to host events and weddings too. There’s always something to fix or improve, but they’re building it step by step, with care.
Steven is 24 now. He plays football with the local team and is getting more comfortable with the language every day. When he needs a break, he heads back to Malta for a few days but says that France really feels like home now.
Why Domaine La Gazaille de Camille Deserves a Spot on Dordogne Travel Guide
Lot-et-Garonne Holiday Home Near the Dordogne
Domaine La Gazaille de Camille is located in Lot-et-Garonne, just beyond the official borders of the Dordogne. But honestly, it feels like it belongs. It’s personal, down-to-earth, and built with care. Not a polished resort but a real family place, shaped by real people.
And that’s exactly what we look for at Dordogne Travel Guide. It’s not just about location it’s about stories that matter. The journey of this family, their new life here, and the home they’ve created together it all makes this a true Dordogne Travel Guide local story.
A Region That Deserves More Attention
Lot-et-Garonne isn’t usually the first place people think of when planning a trip to southwest France and maybe that’s exactly why it’s such a good place to go.
The villages still have proper weekly markets, it’s a lot quieter than the Dordogne, and life feels more relaxed than in the busy tourist spots.
It might not be the Dordogne, but it has that same easygoing vibe just with fewer people around.
Why This Lot-et-Garonne Holiday Home Feels Like Home
This isn’t a polished resort or a large commercial operation. It’s a place shaped by real choices, family effort and personal commitment. Everything here from the vintage touches in the rooms to the plans for a small café in the barn carries the feeling of people who truly care.
You’re not just booking a stay. You’re stepping into someone’s dream, shared with guests in the most down-to-earth way. That makes all the difference. You can tell that people really live and care here that makes the experience warm and personal.
Curious about other unique holiday homes in the area? Take a look at Parc les Marrons, It’s a beautiful, peaceful spot in the Dordogne run by people with a clear mission: making sure everyone including guests with disabilities can enjoy the same sense of freedom and comfort in the French countryside.
FAQ
Is Domaine La Gazaille de Camille family-run? Yes. It’s run by Lorraine and her son Steven.
Can you host weddings or events? Yes, they’re working on event spaces and are open to future bookings.
Do they speak English? Yes. The family is originally from Malta.
How far is it from the Dordogne? Lot-et-Garonne borders the Dordogne, making it easy to explore both.
What kind of stay is this? Relaxed, rural, and full of personal touches. A real countryside escape.
Want to Stay at Domaine La Gazaille de Camille?
If you’re looking for a quiet spot in the French countryside, Domaine La Gazaille is a great choice.
The owners are really friendly and easygoing they just want you to feel comfortable and enjoy your time there.
Check out their website, or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
Whether you’re planning a peaceful break or dreaming of your own escape to France, this is a lovely place to start.
References
For local tips and up-to-date advice, the Office de Tourisme Lot‑et‑Garonne is a great resource.
