Beautifully located luxury cottages, where dogs are more than welcome

Courcenay Estate – a rare place where peace, luxury and your dog come together.

Hidden among the green hills of the Beaujolais Vert lies our historic estate with two stylish gîtes (holiday homes). Old stone walls, peaceful surroundings and views of endless greenery. Surrounded by 11 hectares of space and tranquillity, life feels lighter here — a place to slow down, unwind and truly get away from it all.

Courcenay is also a wonderful place for your dog. A calm and safe environment where they can enjoy the space and nature at their own pace. No crowds, no pressure to socialise — just heading out together, exploring the paths, sniffing along the way and then settling down for a well-earned rest.

The Beaujolais Vert is rugged, green and surprisingly diverse. A region of forests, winding roads and wide-open views. You’ll also find authentic French villages, castles and a beautiful abbey. And within an hour you can be in Lyon, a city renowned for its culture and outstanding cuisine.

What does a day here feel like?

You wake up in a stylish gîte as soft morning light fills the room. It’s quiet — wonderfully quiet. Coffee and a fresh croissant. Your dog stretches as if he has lived here for years. Step outside and you’re instantly in nature. No traffic, no plans — just hills, forests and space. Later you drift in the pool, read a good book or simply… do nothing at all.

And then evening falls… crickets in the background, warm summer air, the sun slowly setting, a good glass of wine and your dog lying beside you.

This is holiday.

Experience it for yourself.

Discover Courcenay Estate.

Courcenay Estate

A French estate already mentioned in 887. A castle once stood here; it didn’t fully survive the centuries, but the stones were of excellent quality and now form much of the house. Recycling avant la lettre. For centuries, taxes were collected and justice was served here. Today, we mostly raise wine glasses — and the atmosphere has improved considerably.

With 11 hectares of private land, space here is not a marketing term. The nearest neighbours are at a comfortable distance. Peace and views are included.

Two gîtes. No more.

In 2025, we — Richard and Marloes — opened the doors of this estate with one clear idea: to create a place where luxury feels effortless, the atmosphere relaxed, and where your dog doesn’t have to stay home while you enjoy the good life.

We deliberately chose to stay small-scale: Gîte Boyar and Gîte Dubhan. That’s it. Each gîte offers two bedrooms, two bathrooms with walk-in showers, a cosy living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and a spacious private, enclosed terrace.

Dogs: not just allowed, but welcome

Yes, your dog can come. Yes, more than one.

In principle, up to three per gîte. Have a larger pack? Just get in touch — we’re flexible, as long as it’s not a full sled-dog expedition.

We’ve created a safe, comfortable environment where dogs feel just as at home as their owners. Each terrace is enclosed (1.5 metres high) and both are located within our gated courtyard. Safe for your dog, relaxing for you. No unexpected adventures into the surrounding forests.

Coming without a dog? You’re very welcome too. Just be aware you might hear the occasional bark — think of it as countryside background music.

A place for those who value peace

We welcome guests aged 15 and over. Not out of strictness, but to preserve the atmosphere. This is a place for those who enjoy life at a slower pace — where time softens and you can hear your own thoughts again.

No mass tourism, no entertainment teams, no fuss. Just quality. And space to breathe.

Groceries & the good life

Just a 10-minute drive away are Thizy-les-Bourgs and Cours-la-Ville, with supermarkets, bakeries, a butcher, greengrocer and several good restaurants. The bakery in Mardore is a 10-minute walk.

Looking for something more? In Roanne (25 minutes) you’ll find everything from hypermarkets to fine dining — including the legendary three-Michelin-star restaurant Troisgros, for when you really want to treat yourself.

And beyond?

We love exploring the area by road bike, mountain bike, on foot or on horseback — and we’re happy to share our favourite spots.

But honestly? You could just pick up a book and settle by our heated 12 x 6 metre pool.

Sometimes, the most exclusive plan… is no plan at all.

So…

Looking for peace? Space? Style without stiffness? And your dog simply by your side (well… under the table)?

Then this might just be your place.

Book that week. Or two.

We’ll take care of the silence.

And a chilled glass of wine on arrival. 🍷