gite_holidays_in_france:surrounding area

Cycling, walking, fishing or an exploration of historic towns and villages - these form only part of the attractions the Gartempe valley has to offer. The location of our gite will give you access to even more to enjoy. Take a stroll around the medieval town of Chauvigny where from the ruins of the ancient fortress you can enjoy the Giant birds of prey display. Enjoy the sights and smells and sensation of its market. As evening falls on the fortified ruins relax in one of the small local bars and enjoy a chilled pineau des charentes - the exquisite local aperitif made from a subtle blend of Charente grape juice and cognac.

A seemingly endless supply of wonderful cheeses is available in the region - most still made from the full rich goat's milk churned slowly and lovingly to create a cheese of individual character. Explore for the delight and novelty of unusual and rare varieties of wines the many vineyards located around the Marigny-Brizay. These wines of a delicate and individual character are created by the small but serious producer and merit a day devoted to their tasting. A day trip to the coast will avail you of a sumptious gastronomic indulgence in fish and seafood. The combination of sun and saltwater makes the Marennes-Oleron Basin one of the most abundant suppliers of oysters in France. Oysters, mussels, langoustines - if you are enamoured with seafood then an exploration of the coast is a must. Why not bring back to the gite some of the caviar from Saint-Fort-sur-Gironde to enjoy by the pool? If a trip to the coast, however, is not on your agenda then you can choose all the above produce and more from the many wonderful local markets

With Paris only 1 1/2 hours away on the efficient TGV you can combine all the tranquillity and peace of a rural hamlet with an opportunity to see one of the most beautiful cities in the world. For a trip into the future visit Futuroscope where a dramatic landscape of exhibits and rides provide an insight into the exciting world of multi-media technology. For sheer elegance and historic beauty a day in Poitiers should not be missed. Take a trip straight into the heart of this beautiful city where a myriad of charming paved walkways leads you through fascinating shops and boutiques. Pause for a moment at one of Poitier's elegant bars or cafes to admire the splendid church of 'Notre Dame le Grande' - its ornate carved stone facade arguably one of the greatest examples of 'Romanesque art in the world'.

Gites Holidays in France