From a holiday dream to a new chapter
For years, we said: “One day, we’ll buy a place in France.” In 2021, that dream suddenly took shape. A spontaneous house viewing in the Dordogne turned into an offer and Maison Saint-Blaise became ours.
When the first guests arrived, something clicked. We realised there was a world of difference between just “letting a house” and truly hosting people. It wasn’t only about beds and a swimming pool. It was about stories, laughter, celebrations, and memories.
Soon, we saw the impact of making deliberate choices: choosing our style, telling our story, attracting the right kind of guests. What started as an experiment grew into a thriving holiday home where 70% of bookings now come directly through our own website. And more importantly: it became a business we love.
That experience was the seed of DordogneCollection.
Why we started DordogneCollection
The Dordogne is full of beautiful houses. Yet many of them get lost in the endless scroll of big travel platforms.
Guests choose on price or convenience, owners feel like they’re at the mercy of algorithms, and often nobody really wins. We believe it can be different.
DordogneCollection was created to do what mass platforms cannot:
Curate with care. We select only homes with character, quality and hosts who genuinely care about hospitality.
Focus on the ideal homes and guests. Families, friends and couples who want more than “just a house”. People who value warmth, authenticity, and the joy of discovering the Dordogne.
Support the hosts. We know from our own journey how challenging and rewarding it is to rent out your home. That’s why we offer not only visibility, but also knowledge, community and hands-on support (both online and on the ground).
We are not trying to be the biggest. We aim to be the most trustworthy.
Who we are
We are Sandra Mengerink and Sven van Acker. Sandra spent over twenty years in IT and consulting, before turning her eye for strategy and design towards holiday homes. She helps owners translate the essence of their property into a clear online presence so their story attracts the guests it truly deserves.
Sven is a project manager by background, an adventurer at heart, and fluent in French. He has built strong local connections, from tradesmen to village associations, which ensures that practical support and authentic insider tips are always at hand.
Together, with our two children, we divide our time between the Netherlands and the Dordogne. We know what it means to arrive, to feel welcome, and to make a house feel like home. Even if just for a week.
Our Mission
DordogneCollection exists to make the Dordogne shine, all year round.
For guests: a carefully chosen collection of houses where everything feels right, from the welcome to the Wi-Fi. Places where you can relax, connect, and enjoy every season: the golden autumn, the quiet winter, the bright spring, and of course the long Dordogne summers.
For owners: a trusted partner who helps you enjoy your property, while sharing it with guests who will truly appreciate it. We want owners to feel proud, not pressured; supported, not overwhelmed.
For the region: a community that values local life and shares it with travellers. From markets to vineyards, from hiking trails to hidden rivers, the Dordogne is richer when experienced together.
Why choose our platform and book our holiday homes
Curated Selection of Exceptional Homes
Every property is handpicked for its charm, comfort, and family-friendly amenities — no generic listings, just stays that exceed expectations.
Authenticity Without Compromise
Our homes offer true Dordogne character with modern comforts — elegant spaces that feel both refined and relaxed.
Personalized, Local Support
From first inquiry to final checkout, our local team offers real human service, local recommendations, and 24/7 assistance tailored to your family’s needs.
Designed with Families in Mind
From spacious layouts and secure gardens to baby gear and private pools — our homes make travel with children easier and more enjoyable.
Effortless, Secure Booking Experience
Transparent pricing, flexible terms, and a seamless online booking process that saves time and inspires confidence.
Trusted Quality, No Surprises
What you see is truly what you get — we personally visit and verify each home, ensuring every stay lives up to its promise.
Get in Touch
Perhaps you’re dreaming of your next family holiday. Perhaps you own a house here and want to share it in a meaningful way.
Either way: feel free to reach out. We attend to your request within 24 hours.
Sandra & Sven