Discover the essence of
the Charente and beyond
Things to do
Nearby Montjean is a gentle 20 minute walk or 10 minute cycle, where you can indulge in the artisanal delights of Boulangerie & Patisserie Durand, linger over a long and typically French plat de jour lunch at Le Relais De La Péruse, or relish the broader cuisine of the Auberge du Noyer on their sun-dappled terrace.
Art enthusiasts can explore the many local galleries and studios such as the L’ATELIER D’ÈSSÉ in Villeborde. Immerse yourself in the local community with a visit to L’Église Saint-Hilaire de Londigny, and explore fashionable finds at Menard Boutique in Saint-Martin-du-Clocher. Don’t miss the famous silver mines at Melle (18 ml) or the unforgettable monkey park at Valleé de Signes (16 ml). Alternatively, treat yourselves to a refreshing dip at the outdoor swimming pool in Sauzé-Vaussais or head to the Plan d’eau near Angouleme where facilities include sports courts and a sailing club.
Visit the town of Ruffec (5 miles)
Just 5 miles away from our French gite rental, the town of Ruffec welcomes you providing a full range of urban conveniences— car rental, supermarkets, pharmacies, garden centres, market, water sports and various dining options—ensuring a comfortable and well-supported stay.
Visit the city of Angoulême (30 miles)
It’s a quick 30 mile trip down the local N10 dual-carriageway to the historic city of Angoulême, renowned for its impressive ramparts and the striking Angoulême Cathedral—a Romanesque-Gothic masterpiece. With lots of students, the city has an upbeat but classy vibe. The Grandes Halles market is a great place to eat and soak up the French culture around you, and the city offers many excellent restaurants across a wide range of cuisines. In January, the city celebrates its world renowned annual International Comics Festival, and you can explore opportunities for golf, all year round, a short drive from our French gite rental at Golf de l’Hirondelle (40 mi), Golf du Cognac (55 mi), and Golf d’Aubeterre (60 mi).
City hopping around the Charente region
Elevate your French gite holiday with captivating excursions to nearby cities or towns, each offering its unique charm. Explore the Renaissance architecture of Château de la Rochefoucauld (32 mi), visit the charming town of Jarnac (40 mi) along the Charente River, and discover the historic significance of Poitiers (46 mi). Venture to Cognac (55 mi) for an immersive experience in distilleries, museums, and festivals like the Cognac Blues Festival. Villebois-Lavalette (50 mi) and Aubeterre-sur-Dronne (65 mi) beckon with their medieval charm, providing picturesque settings for exploration.
Closer to the gite, there are many charming and picturesque villages and small towns within a short drive. Mansle, Verteuil, Nanteuil-en-valle, Chef-Bouton and Villefagnan all have a variety of restaurants and local attractions.
Go shopping in Charente
Indulge in local retail therapy, acquiring treasures unique to our region. Savour the distinct flavours of truffles, cognac, and Pineau des Charentes-aperitif, and relish the sweetness of honey, reflecting the rich agricultural offerings of our surroundings.
Join us in creating unforgettable French holiday memories as you explore the diverse attractions and experiences that our charming corner of Charente has to offer.