Maison du Fort - Montignac-de-Lauzun

Lynne Tremlett

If you're thinking about booking at Maison Du Fort, stop thinking and just book. I couldn't recommend it highly enough.
You can expect a warm welcome from excellent hosts. Who will happily advise on the best local nights markets and places to visit.

The Art House is great space to relax and enjoy the wonderful countryside, amazing hospitality. Not forgetting the opportunity to sign up for an art class. With the very talented resident Artist Leesa Le May.

Frankie Rees

Our week-long art retreat at Maison Du Fort was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived, we were enveloped in an atmosphere of creativity and comfort, thanks to the impeccable organization by our hosts, Leesa and Alistar. Their attention to detail and genuine care for each guest was evident in every aspect of the retreat. We felt welcomed and well-cared for, allowing us to focus fully on our artistic pursuits. The entire experience was seamless and delightful.

Maison Du Fort is a gem set in the beautiful French countryside. The house itself is a stunning testament to thoughtful renovation, with spacious bedrooms with period furniture that exudes charm and elegance. The gardens and pool area were serene, while the well-equipped studio offered everything we needed for our art classes. We particularly loved the village quirky "Pub" that had local musicians playing together during the week. Every corner of this retreat is designed to foster creativity and tranquility.

The art course was meticulously planned and executed. Mornings were dedicated to in-depth tutorials, afternoons were spent painting en plein air, capturing the enchanting French landscape or the lively local markets or a visit to a gorgeous garden hosted by Michael and Thierry. The structure of the course ensured that artists of all levels felt included and capable of achieving their best work. With a wide array of materials provided and comprehensive guidance on their use, we were able to experiment in a supportive environment.

Meals at Maison Du Fort were a highlight of the retreat. Leesa's homemade three-course meals, served for both lunch and dinner, were a culinary delight.The cozy, communal dining experience, complemented by limitless drinks and lively conversation, made our stay all the more lovely.

Reflecting on our week at Maison Du Fort, we can confidently say it was the best luxury painting holiday we could have hoped for. Not only did we enjoy unparalleled hospitality and comfort, but we also saw significant improvement in our painting skills. Leesa and Alistair have created a haven for artists where every detail is designed to inspire and nurture creativity. We highly recommend Maison Du Fort to anyone seeking an exceptional art retreat experience, and we eagerly look forward to our next visit!!

Thank you so much Leesa and Alistair xx

Natalie Davis

Absolutly stunning home, gardens and pool. An absolute pleasure to visit and spend time with Leesa, Alastair, Cersei and the animals. To be shown around and the culture explained, In love with France again x

Archie Maton

I recently had the most incredible two-weeks at Maison du Fort Art House and can't recommend it enough! Leesa, Alastair and their lovely daughter Cersei were all so welcoming and they immediately made it feel like staying with family. Staying as a volunteer to help with interior decorating and gardening, they were beyond accommodating in showing us the local towns and villages, (shout out Lauzun and Eymet markets!) and introducing us to friendly locals.

Their love for the house and its heritage was contagious and I can't wait to see how the renovations continue! I can't thank Leesa, Alastair and Cersei enough for such a unique opportunity. If you're interested in art, architecture and history Maison du Fort is the place to be!

Caroline Eagle

I had a fabulous time at the Maison du Fort. The house and gardens are so atmospheric, Leesa and Alistair are working incredibly hard to retain the spirit of the place. I particularly loved the fact the swimming pool is fed by the well in the garden and treated with salt not chlorine which makes it feel natural to swim in. Leesa has added such thoughtful touches in the bedrooms and rustles up whatever you need. Thank you!

Michelle Dainty

I've just spent a week at Maison du Fort and thoroughly enjoyed it. Leesa and Alistair are the perfect hosts, providing a warm welcome into their beautiful home which they are lovingly restoring. The house is large, spacious and comfortable even though there is still work to complete. It's rich with history and tied to the local community. The grounds are very natural, tree strewn with a pool and an area for boule. The surrounding bastides are a step back in time, and if you can go on a market day you're in for a treat. At the time of writing the art studio is nearing completion. I would definitely recommend Maison du Fort as the retreat it is intended to be. The house, the welcome and the surrounding area are second to none.

Alastair Vaissiere

Fantastic art courses in beautiful surroundings.
Highly recommend visiting this wonderful Manoir for an art workshop with Leesa Le May.