around our Gites in France
Us
book
& Prices
& House Hunting
& Cottages
& Activities
We have a number of excellent golf courses within easy travelling distance. Saintes golf course, 18 holes, par 68; 'located a few miles to the north of Saintes this gently rolling, wooded course combines the pleasure of the game with a need for some technical skill'. Thats what it says in the brochure, one of our guests says 'its definately not for the faint hearted' Cognac golf course, 18 holes, par 72; set around a beautiful club house and restaurant. Guest comment: ' Wide fairways, great views of vineyards, very friendly, our favourite course' Royan golf course, 18 holes, par 71; located in the heart of a forest. Guest comment ' expensive but well worth it. Established fairways which are tight so accuracy needed'
The Charente-Maritime is famous for the quality of its coastal waters and for the high levels of sunshine which provide ideal conditions for sea fishing. Those who enjoy fishing for sea bass, sea bream and meagre (shadefish) are very familiar with the offshore islands, Ile de R� and Ile d'Ol�ron, and the ports of La Rochelle, Royan and Meschers-sur-Gironde.
The inland region is criss-crossed with waterways, rivers and streams which are a haven for leisurely fresh water fishing. The Charente, S�vre Niortaise, Boutonne, Seugne, Dronne as well as the extensive network of drainage canals are home to many coarse and predator fish. Whether you are an angler or whether you cast or spin, fish with lures or fish for carp, these watercourses offer you the chance to net record-size catches.The Carte de P�che de Vacances covers you for 15 consecutive days and currently costs 28 euros and can be used between 1st June and 30th November.
Chris has made his living in the wine industry teaching 'wine' to employees within the hospitality industry. It is also a passionate hobby and he enjoys sharing his knowledge to all who are interested and dispelling some of the mystery which surrounds wine. We can offer a number of interesting wine related activities:
An introduction to wine tasting
Six fine wines will be selected to give a well rounded and enjoyable tasting. The evening is intended to be an informal and friendly chat about wine where you feel at ease and able to ask any questions you wish about wine. Chris will go through in detail how to taste a wine including appearance, nose and taste. You will have the chance to make notes and discuss what you see, smell, think about each wine. No one will be put on the spot and you can say as much or as little as you wish. After the tasting Chris will talk a bit about his top tips for wine buying. In all it lasts about 3 hours, from 7pm to 10pm. Book your place in advance. 8 per group, no children.15 � per person.
Chai Visit
Experience a true taste of the Charente Maritime, join our small group of imbibers for a visit to the chai of Eric Cartaud a local wine, Pineau and Cognac producer.The grape varieties used in his produce will be discussed along with training, vinification and history and anything else you would like to know about �vines and wines�. We also have a look inside his small chai at the equipment and tanks used. We can sample the various fruits of his labours and meet either himself or his wife, Marie. There will be an opportunity to purchase some of his small family production. We pay Eric for the visit and tasting so there is NO OBLIGATION OR PRESSURE TO BUY. There will be a charge of 6 euros per adult this will be added to your final bill at the end of your stay. This charge creates a �pressure free� enviroment so you are in no way �expected� to purchase anything. The idea is to have a pleasant evening , meet local people, chat and learn something along the way. Any purchases of Pineau or wine that you do wish to make should be payed for directly to Monsieur Cartaud. You can visit Erics shop at any time and receive a small free tasting of his produce without joining our chai visit. However you will not necessarily meet the man himself, nor visit inside his production area, also you will not of course have the benefit of Chris' knowledge on hand !
Vine Walk
Our vine walks for all the family are held usually on Sunday mornings starts with a cold glass of Pineau for the adults (juice for the children) Followed by a gentle stroll along the country lanes and tracks towards the vineyards. Here Chris talks about the countryside, how vines grow and how Pineau is made and anything else you would like to know. Lasts about 1.5hrs. Not strenuous, can take prams but can be bumpy through the vines. 5� per adult and 1� per child (under 5yrs free)
The immediate area around the cottages is perfect for walks and cycling with its gently rolling landscape. Wind your way along the quiet country lanes and tracks going as short or long a distance as you want. We can recommend routes to go and lend you local maps so you don't lose your way. We even have a few adults bikes which you can use free of charge.
Both properties have a good sized swimming pool so you can take a dip first thing in the morning or anytime you like. They are maintained daily by ourselves. The coast and its beaches is just an easy hours drive away, there are also many lakes and rivers in the area, parts of which you can swim in. St Jean also has a great indoor swimming pool centre for very hot (or rainy !) days .