Farmhouse for 6 and Cottage for 2, near Cognac
The farmhouse & converted stone stable are set within walled gardens in the beautiful Cognac region, and have been lovingly restored to provide comfortable & spacious accommodation, whilst at the same time retaining the many original features of this classical Charentaise farm.
Our farmhouse and cottage are an ideal location from which to explore this beautiful and tranquil region of France - once occupied by the Romans, and still retaining much evidence of that period in history. The property is located on a gentle hilltop with uninterrupted views across rolling French countryside. The gardens are planted with a large variety of plants - lavenders, hollyhocks, roses and many more. The various areas within the warm stone walls change through the seasons from the pale blossoms of early spring through to the vivid oranges and russets of late autumn.
You can explore the countryside on foot or bikes, which are at your disposal. As well as the quiet roads in this region, there are hundreds of kilometres of tracks running through farmland, woods and between the vineyards, and they are all accessible to you. For a more leisurely way to see all this, we can arrange for a "Caleche" ride (Carriage pulled by magnificent Percheron horses).
Please note: Smoking is not allowed inside the house or cottage, and as neither propery is suitable for young children, the minimum age is regretfully 14 years.
Our Charentaise Farmhouse for 6
Approached through an arched, gated entrance set in the high limestone walls which surround the property, a large, secure parking area and gravel drive lead to the carved stone doorway of the farmhouse.
We ran a successful Chambres d'Hôtes in this part of the house for the past 8 years until 2011, and were awarded 3 Epis by Gîtes de France - their high standard B&B award. We have now modified it to provide a high quality holiday home.
The entrance hall is an airy quarry tiled space with original stone sink and oeil-de-boeuf (bullseye) window, which was once used to check on the livestock outside. There is also a desk (WiFi available), and off the entrée is a spacious shower room with W.C. basin and walk-in shower.
The salon is comfortably furnished and has an original carved stone charentais fireplace, with wood burner. The dining area has oak dining table, chairs and dresser, and the kitchen area is equipped with oven, hob, dishwasher, electric kettle, fridge/freezer. A washing machine is installed.
An antique staircase leads to the 1st floor onto an open landing sitting area. On this floor, there are 2 double bedrooms, each with en-suite shower rooms equipped with W.C., basin and showers. The third bedroom has twin beds. All bedrooms have ceiling fans, and have extensive country views.
Outside, the garden has varied planting, with lavender, hollyhocks, palms etc., and a rose arch leads to the pool garden. Near the swimming pool there is a summer kitchen equipped with BBQ and fridge, and a stone pergola with stone table for al fresco dining.
All bed linen, towels and pool towels are provided. We also supply a welcome pack of goodies on your arrival containing fresh baguette, milk, tea, coffee, sugar, fruit juice, butter, jam, cheese, ham, eggs, and of course, some local wine. So there is no need to worry about rushing off to find a supermarket, after your (maybe long) journey.
As we live "next door", whenever possible, we like to welcome our guests shortly after arrival with a cup or glass of something. From then on we will become as "invisible" as possible, respecting your privacy. However, should you wish (or need),, we are on hand to recommend or help in whatever way we can.
The Pool
The pool (11m x 5m), is a natural salt-water system (with none of the affects associated with a chlorine controlled pool), and is shared by the house and cottage guests. To help keep you fit, a counter-current system is installed. There are ample sun loungers around the pool and a large stone pergola for al-fresco dining. A meandering path from the pergola leads past the pool to a raised viewpoint with colourfully planted terraces and on top, a stone table, and chairs. From this point there are panoramic views over the surrounding vineyards and sunflower fields, and in the distance, the towns of Cognac and Jarnac.
Please note: Guests have priority to the pool. We only ever use the pool when it is not in use by guests.
Stone Cottage for 2
The ground floor is open-plan, with stone walls and exposed beams.
The Sitting area, which is comfortably furnished, ovelooks the garden and small pond with cascade, where many of the garden birds take their daily bathes. There is a TV/DVD player and an extensive DVD library is at your disposal. There is also a large selection of paperbacks available. Although most time is spent outside, a wood-burning stove is installed for the cooler autumn and early spring evenings.
The kitchen area is fully equipped including oven, hob, electric kettle, filtered drinking water etc. A washing machine is available.
The hand-made staircase leads to an open landing with daybed. Off from the landing is the bedroom with double bed (with mosquito net), built-in wardrobes, and ceiling fan. The landing also leads to a shower room with W.C., basin and walk-in shower.
Outside, facing west is the private courtyard, taking advantage of the beautiful sunsets, and is equipped with BBQ, table, chairs & parasol. Between this courtyard and our own fields, is a large area ideal for a traditional game of boules, as well as providing secure parking.
All bed linen, towels and pool towels are provided. We also supply a welcome pack of goodies on your arrival containing fresh baguette, milk, tea, coffee, sugar, fruit juice, butter, jam, cheese, ham, eggs, and of course, some local wine. So there is no need to worry about rushing off to find a supermarket, after your (maybe long) journey.
As we live "across the garden" from you, whenever possible, we like to welcome our guests shortly after arrival with a cup or glass of something. From then on we will become as "invisible" as possible, respecting your privacy. However, should you wish (or need), we are on hand to recommend or help in whatever way we can.
The rear of the cottage opens into large gardens with many places in which to relax, and leads to the swimmimg pool.
