About this series At Dordogne Travel Guide, we love connecting with the people behind the places. This blog is part of our ongoing series “The Dordogne through the eyes of locals” a collection of interviews with business owners who call this region home.
We’re starting with Esther and Patrick, the couple behind Park Les Marrons Dordogne a peaceful, family-friendly holiday park just 15 minutes from Sarlat, in the heart of the Périgord Noir.
No marketing talk. Just real stories, and real people.
A Search for the Right Place
They spent years searching for their “golden spot” in France. In the beginning, the dream was a château one that could host weddings and gîte guests. But many of the properties had been untouched for decades, and the cost to restore them was simply too high.
Eventually, they shifted their focus to existing businesses. One day, by chance, they visited the Dordogne a region they had never seen before. The charm of the landscape, the warmth of the people, and the abundance of things to do won them over. Their young daughter, usually cautious, wandered freely and confidently. That was the sign they needed.
“If a child instantly feels at home, it says a lot.”
The decision to buy the park became clear after a few visits. A positive relationship with the previous owner made the process smooth and encouraging.
This is where the journey began.
Built for Comfort and Accessibility
Park Les Marrons was originally designed with accessibility in mind — a philosophy that continues today. Each of the six villas is wheelchair accessible, and both the outdoor and indoor pools are adapted for guests with reduced mobility.
Some of the most memorable moments include hosting guests with terminal illnesses or disabilities guests who thought a holiday like this wasn’t possible. Those experiences have left a lasting impact.
“That’s when you realise how meaningful this work can be.”
The outdoor pool has a lift for guests with reduced mobility.
The outdoor pool has a lift for guests with reduced mobility.
Why Guests Love Park Les Marrons Dordogne
Creating a Warm Welcome
What they love most is surprising guests with small, thoughtful touches. Children receive a welcome present. Parents are greeted with a small package that helps them relax right away.
“We want people to feel like they’re the first to walk into their home here.”
They personally walk guests through the accommodation, offering a warm and informal introduction that often sets the tone for the stay. Restaurant reservations or activity bookings? No problem that’s just part of the service.
There’s also space to relax and play. A trampoline, playground, and spacious garden areas keep young visitors active and happy.
Park Les Marrons from above calm, green, and family-friendly
More Than Just a Place to Sleep
Hospitality here goes far beyond accommodation. Guests can order fresh bread and breakfast delivery. The on-site shop is stocked with regional products. And on the terrace, there’s even the chance to sabre a bottle of champagne.
“Watching the joy on someone’s face when they successfully sabre their first bottle it never gets old.”
The terrace is open to local cyclists and hikers, too creating a casual mix of visitors and locals. Supporting regional producers is important, and their shop offers products like walnuts, lavender oil, and pâté from nearby farms.
Their commitment to the local community is genuine and ongoing not just part of the guest experience, but woven into how they run the business.
Challenges, Plans, and Progress
Life at Park Les Marrons Dordogne is hands-on and full of surprises. Things break, plans change, and there’s always something unexpected to deal with. As Esther put it:
“You can stress, cry, or panic… but it won’t fix your problem. Better to open a bottle of wine and come up with a plan.”
They’ve already added a wood stove to warm the indoor pool during winter, opened a terrace that’s popular with passing cyclists and hikers, and expanded their breakfast service. Right now, they’re building a meeting space for group retreats and small events. In the future, they’d love to offer wellness services too — like massages, physiotherapy, or hair treatments — not just for guests, but for locals as well.
At the same time, they’re working to become less reliant on large booking platforms by building more direct, long-term relationships with their guests.
Space to play and room to grow… Park Les Marrons in full view
A delicious spread at La Boca, a favourite local spot in Cénac.
What They Hope to Leave Behind
Esther and Patrick hope that Park Les Marrons Dordogne becomes more than a just a holiday destination. A place where people feel truly welcome, and where meaningful memories are made. They want to build something lasting, something that benefits not just their family, but the local community too.
“We’re building something that’s good for our guests and good for our community.”
By collaborating with nearby producers and professionals, they aim to offer opportunities to others in the area, while at the same time expanding their own services beyond holiday rentals. As Esther shared, their goal is to create a more stable, year-round business that isn’t so dependent on large booking platforms.
And their advice to others with a similar dream?
“Take your time. Get to know the rules, the culture, the people. And don’t rush the process.”
Want to Experience Park Les Marrons?
5 Reasons Families Love Park Les Marrons Dordogne
Truly accessible for everyone: All villas are wheelchair-friendly, and the pool has a lift to make swimming easy for all.
A warm and personal welcome: Kids get a small gift when they arrive, and parents receive a welcome package to help them settle in.
Great for families with kids: There’s a trampoline, a playground, and lots of space to run and play.
Connected to the local community: Guests can buy local products on-site, and the terrace is also open to hikers and cyclists from the area.
A peaceful place all year: Whether you visit in spring, summer, or autumn, it’s always calm and welcoming.
I want to thank Esther for the warm and open conversation. It truly felt like chatting with someone I’ve known for years. I can’t wait to visit Park Les Marrons in person and experience their beautiful place for myself.
FAQ
Is the park suitable for guests with reduced mobility? Yes. All villas are wheelchair accessible and the outdoor pool has a lift.
Is the park family-friendly? Very much so. Families are a big part of the guest base, and kids are always welcomed with something small and thoughtful.
Can guests walk to nearby restaurants or shops? The park is in a rural location, so you’ll need a car for most day trips, but local producers and restaurants are easy to reach.
Is the park open year-round? Yes, and it’s particularly popular outside the high season for those looking for peace and quiet.
Do they sell local food or essentials on-site? Yes — the small shop offers regional products, some groceries, and personal care items, making your stay easier and more local.
We’ll be featuring a new local entrepreneur very soon someone with a unique story and connection to the Dordogne. Stay tuned for the next edition in this ongoing series!
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