What is the name of your accommodation?

Le Mas & Le Mazet.

Before we dive into the details, could you briefly introduce yourself?

We are Rupert Springfield, 49, and Franck van der Hooft, 58. We're married and live at our property in the Dordogne. We met in Amsterdam and made the move to France in 2015.

We would love to share a bit about you as a person with our customers. Would you like to tell us more about yourself? For example, your interests, free-time activities, work, family, holidays?

Franck was a theatre producer, and I was an antiques dealer. Now, when we're not immersed in life here in the Dordogne, we love visiting London for theatre, ballet, and art exhibitions. Even after 9 years in France, we still feel like we're on holiday here—there’s so much to explore in this region!

When and in what way did this property come into your life, and what motivated you to make it a part of your life?

We were ready to leave behind the busy city life in Amsterdam and embrace the peacefulness of the countryside. After viewing 70 properties, we found Le Mas—perfectly perched on a hill with incredible views. It felt like a home, and we worked hard to make it not just our home but a welcoming space for guests too.

Can you tell us more about the process of renovating and furnishing your property?

The buildings themselves were sound, but the interiors were dark and in need of a fresh touch. We added more windows and used a French grey color palette. While we kept the historic stone features, we brought in modern touches like a concrete kitchen and en-suite bathrooms in each bedroom. One of our favorite renovations is the summer kitchen with stunning views of the rolling countryside.

On a personal level, what makes your property truly special for you? Any standout memories or moments that make it dear to your heart?

It’s the property’s warmth and the way it welcomes both us and our guests. We've had proposals, weddings, and even guests return because the place feels like a home away from home. One guest told me that the view over the countryside was almost spiritual, and that it completely recharged him.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your property?

The style is very much rooted in Perigordian architecture, with ancient stone walls and large beams. The interiors are modern with comfortable hotel-quality beds and lots of space. Whether it's Le Mas or the smaller Le Mazet, there’s a sense of ease, privacy, and intimacy.

Which part of your property do you love the most, and why?

I adore the drive leading up to the property. It's incredibly private, with a forest archway and fields before you arrive at the house. The peacefulness and privacy of the place make it feel like you’re entering a completely different world.

What makes the location where your accommodation is located unique and special?

The tranquility of the area is unmatched. There are no close neighbors or busy roads, just nature and historic villages. We’re near hidden gems like Montferrand with its beautiful frescoes, yet we’re only a short drive from bustling bastide towns like Monpazier and Beaumont.

Are there any sustainable or eco-friendly applications associated with your property that you are proud of?

What motivated or inspired you to rent your property to guests?

Moving to the countryside meant we had to open our home to guests, but this wasn’t just a side project for us—it’s a passion. We love sharing our space and making it a place where guests can relax, unwind, and create their own memories.

Can you paint a vivid picture of the overall experience someone can expect when staying at your property?

It’s all about privacy and tranquility. Imagine a stress-free holiday where everyone has their own space and bathroom. You can relax by the pool, explore the countryside, or have a private chef prepare meals for you. And if you feel like exploring, there are plenty of nearby attractions like vineyards and historic sites.

In what ways does your property stand out from others? What unique features or characteristics make it a one-of-a-kind experience for guests?

Le Mas & Le Mazet is unique because it combines historical charm with modern comfort. We offer a concierge service, helping guests discover hidden gems in the Dordogne, and we even arrange wine tastings or guided tours. It’s a home away from home, offering the comfort and convenience guests are looking for.

Can you share the best compliment you’ve received from a guest?

One guest said, ‘You’ve thought of everything for us. We’ll be back next year.’ It’s the highest compliment when guests feel so cared for that they want to return.

What do you hope guests will take away or remember most from their stay in your accommodation?

We want them to remember the simplicity and beauty of the surroundings—the vast sky, the scent of lavender, the tranquility. We want them to leave feeling relaxed, recharged, and ready to take on the world again.

Do you have any recommendations for guests to fully enjoy their holiday? Your valuable tips will be featured on your accommodation’s page!

We send our guests a personalized guide with recommendations for everything from hiking to local markets. It’s about tailoring the experience to each guest, ensuring they can make the most of their time here.