In 2020, Pamela Ogilvie and Tom Leeson from Aberdeen, Scotland, found themselves captivated by the Charente’s rural tranquillity and warmth of welcome during a French holiday. Pamela had experienced the region during an earlier watercolour painting retreat in 2014 and quickly fell in love with the Charente’s gentle pace of life.  Introducing Tom to a lifestyle that deeply resonated, the couple decided to take that huge step, founding Esprit Charentais in 2023.

The fully renovated gite rentals were transformed over a three-year period – much of the work undertaken by Pamela and Tom themselves.  Nestled in the heart of the Poitou-Charentes region, this venture stands as a testament to the Scottish couple’s love affair with the region, sparked during their own French holiday, inviting all who experience Esprit Charentais to become part of this special French fairytale.

Explore our gite holiday rentals