Sarlat Center, Salamandre, Suites Sarladaises

Les Suites Sarladaises consists of five upscale self-catering units (two one bedroom apartments and three studios) available for weekly rental in the heart of the historic center of Sarlat-la-Canéda, one of the most visited towns in France and capital of the ‘Perigord Noir’ area of Dordogne. Modern comfort is added to the innate coziness of ancient stones, weathered beams, fireplaces, and the patina of age. La Salamadre (Salamander) suite, with a total of 85 sq m, has a very large bedroom equipped with a 160 queen size bed, a separate and roomy salon, fully equipped kitchen with a handsome gas range, bath with shower and a beautiful balcony - one of the prominent features of the whole of Sarlat. There is fine woodwork of the 18th century, original parquet floors, and two monumental wooden fireplaces dating from the period of Louis XIV. (Due to fire regulations, however, both are blocked and not in use.) Tall French windows and elegant decor, including a period 17th century armoire in local walnut, make this apartment exceptional for lovers of Le Grand Siecle! In folklore, salamanders had fantastic powers surprising for what is a rather small, humble creature. The ‘fire salamander’ hibernated in hollow logs and with wood being the main fuel in ancient times; this may explain their sudden appearance amid flames. Withstanding fire became symbolic for endurance and loyalty. At the conclusion of the 100 Years War between France and England, the French king granted the Salamander as the badge of Sarlat to commemorate its absolute and never changing loyalty to France. Les Suites Sarladaises is housed in the ancient Hôtel de Leydis, an imposing structure of medieval origin refurbished in the 17th century as a home for magistrates of the Leydis family who presided over judicial affairs in the adjoining 'Presidial', the royal court of justice. Over the ages these and other judges were housed in the building’s stylish period rooms - hence the résidences d'époque incorporated in its business name and logo. The building's most prominent feature is its southern facade where an ornate iron balcony rests atop flamboyantly carved stone corbels, originally of defensive use. Other stonework also evokes the middle ages - two carved gargoyles protect a niche with a statue of the Virgin Mary and there are traces of gothic arches inside and out. About Sarlat… The riches of Sarlat draw significant numbers of tourists to the Dordogne river valley, and the town's outstanding architectural heritage was recognized in 1962 as a national historic monument - the first French city to be so honored. It is also now designated a UNESCO world heritage site. The historic center of Sarlat is deemed one of the most important Medieval cityscapes in all of France and Europe. Les Suites Sarladaises is in the heart of the old Medieval center - now a pedestrian zone - and an easy walk to all major attractions. Sarlat is a lively town with two markets per week (Wednesdays and Saturdays) and a year-round calendar of interesting and entertaining activities for all ages. It is especially busy in the height of summer (late July and all of August) but perhaps most enjoyable in the spring (from Easter through the end of June) and again in autumn when the crowds lessen and the weather is fine and cool. Walking is the way to see Sarlat, and we are located in a pedestrian zone. In fact, the house features in the local walking tours and as a stop for grade school children whose art curriculum includes sketching its unique iron balcony. The town offers free and paid parking lots within a short distance from Les Suites Sarladaises, and the owners will be happy to help you find these as you plan your visit and arrange an arrival time and date.