Luxury accommodation in the Charente-Maritime, the second sunniest region of France.
The main house and gites date from 1713 and are set within a large, walled, south-facing garden.
They are independent of us and each other offering total privacy in a family focussed environment.
Le Cognassier and Le Cerisier have been totally restored to an exceptionally high standard to combine country charm with modern chic. Full of character, the gites have exposed beams and the original thick stone walls help keep them cool in summer. Rooms are generously proportioned, airy and light.
Throughout, you will find tasteful furnishings in antique French style including traditional painted furniture complimented by decorative items and soft furnishings. Each room is individually styled with flair and decorated in a soft palette of neutrals, blues and whites.
he hand painted kitchens are fitted with all you need. Modern stainless steel appliances - dishwasher, washing machine, large fridge/freezer (where you will find a bottle of chilled champagne awaiting you), electric cooker with hob, microwave etc. Any cook will find the kitchen extremely well equipped.
There is an open plan dining area with dresser, table and chairs for 6 overlooking the garden.
After an exhausting day sightseeing (or sunbathing!) relax in the sitting room where you will find a large 3-seater sofa and 2 armchairs, English Satellite TV, DVD and CD player. There is a plentiful supply of books and abundance of toys and games as well as on site playmates, our young children. Resident cats Twiglet and Pilchard are always available for cuddles. Each gite has a Wireless Internet connection for those who need to stay in touch.
Both of our gites sleep 6 comfortably, no bunks or sofa beds in sight!
Upstairs you have superb views of the pool and gardens and neighbouring fields of sunflowers.
We have provided a King size bed in the master bedrooms, a double for bedrooms 2 and twins for bedrooms 3.
Children and babies are very well catered for. A full size cot, stair gates and plenty of baby/child equipment are at your disposal should you need it.
There is a large modern family bathroom /WC upstairs and a shower room with WC downstairs, so there's no need to queue!
For winter or longer lets our gites are open all year round and, consequently are heated throughout.
And finally, what else do we offer? Hospitality in abundance, a home from home and a very warm welcome. We have been resident in France for 4 years and have lots of local knowledge to share. We can recommend plenty of restaurants from low key and casual to gourmet dining and will make reservations for you.
Special rates for longer lets, weekend, Christmas and New Year breaks.
If you are considering buying a property in France we will happily share our experiences (good and bad!) over a glass of wine.
The Gardens
Mostly laid to lawn, the gardens offer a safe, enclosed area for playing with plenty of fruit trees affording shade from the sun. There are swings, a rope ladder, paddling pool, trike, small trampoline and plenty of outdoor toys and games. Relax as the children build their own chateau in the large sandpit! Buckets and spades can be borrowed for beach outings. Older ones may like badminton or trying their hand at a game of boules.
Our beautiful 11m x 5m swimming pool has a Roman end with steps making it ideal for all ages. It is fenced for total safety and surrounded by weigela, lavender and other flowering shrubs. It incorporates a decked area with parasols and teak steamer chairs with plump cushions. Arm yourself with a good book, ipod or just your own thoughts, settle down to some serious sun or shade -bathing and feel the stress melt away. Tantastic!
And Finally….
The chinking of wine glasses, the hiss of a sausage sizzling on the barbecue to the background chatter and laughter of children happily playing. The ingredients for a perfect holiday recipe!
For more details, more pictures, rates and availability visit our website http://www.gitesandantiques.com
