The main house and studio (bungalow) and holiday cottage (gite) are ideally situated in south Charente close to the Dordogne border which allows easy access to many of region's well known and popular places of interest.
The beautiful city of Bordeaux (just over an hour away) with its mix of old and contemporary architecture is served by arguably Europe's finest tram network. Shopping and walking is a pleasure with all the usual big name stores just a stone's throw away from the magnificent Gironde river.
One cannot mention Bordeaux without referring to the one thing that is synonymous with this area of France....fine wines! One only has to drive a few kilometres out of Bordeaux to see acres of vineyards and enjoy superb wines that emanate from famous towns, chateaux or communities. Such names as the Medoc, St Julien, Margaux and Pauillac on the left bank of the Gironde compete with the likes of St Emilion, Pomerol and Cotes de Blaye on the right bank. You will be treated to some very special memories should you visit any of these areas.
Interestingly, Aubeterre-sur-Dronne (1 km) and neighbouring villages are rich with history extending back to Romano-Gallic times. In addition there are many 'Bastide' towns within reach where the English once had a strong foothold. These towns played an important defensive role particularly against the siege tactics of Edward III and the Black Prince during the 100 years war.
On a lighter note, there are plenty of weekly local markets with fresh vegetables and fruit in Chalais, St Aulaye, Ribérac and Aubeterre to name a few, as well as Christmas markets.
Local cafés and restaurants in the area are recognised amongst some of the finest in SW France attracting top chefs such as Michel Guerard and Helene Darroze. Local favourite dishes based on duck - foie gras and confit de canard are very popular.
Périgueux (1 hour), the Dordogne's capital city, has excellent shopping facilities, an amazing Byzantine cathedral and markets on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Also, about an hour away, is Bordeilles (chateau) and Brantôme (known as 'little Venice'), a delightful town with boating and canoeing on the river.
Permits are available locally for fishing the river Dronne and local lakes. We also have connections with the owners of a large local carp lake.
Beaches on the Atlantic coast are circa 1 hour 20 mins drive away, but there are numerous lake and river beaches, many with facilities, in the area. Aubeterre's popular river beach is safe and clean for swimming and canoeing. There are inland lakes with sandy beaches within 10 mins by car (Brossac, 30 mins), (Lake Jamaye 25 mins). At Guizengeard (35mins) there is Jet Ski and Quad Bike hire for the more adventurous!
There are also local facilities for golf, tennis, archery and horse riding. There are plenty of cycle routes and countryside for walks.
There are plenty of annual events in a variety of towns to get involved in.
In conclusion, the local countryside is outstandingly beautiful, offering plenty of walks and cycle routes. Discover lush forests or marvel at the open rolling farmlands, but keep an eye open for the abundant wildlife...hare, boar, deer, buzzards, kites, kestrels, pine martens, jays, owls and more!
TWO DETACHED BUNGALOWS: 3 + 2 BEDROOMS: POOL AND LAND: MAGNIFICENT VIEWS OVER FARMLAND OVERVIEW: The contemporary principal bungalow and separate cottage stand in nearly 2 acres (7,576m2) of land with stunning panoramic views southwards over farmland towards the River Dronne. Additional land is also for sale (1 acre/3,904m2). The entire complex is just 1km from Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, nominated as one of the prettiest villages in France.