Le Petit Verger
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Overview
Experience a glimpse of rural life in southwestern France during your stay at this pretty stone cottage in a hamlet surrounded by summer sunflowers, vineyards and traditional countryside of the Charente-Maritime.
Dating back to the 14th century, Le Petit Verger welcomes up to four guests (and a baby) across its two characterful bedrooms upstairs (a double and a twin). On the ground floor is the inviting open-plan living space with two comfy sofas, satellite TV, a log-burning fire and a little kitchen-diner with everything you need to prepare family meals. The owners have taken great care to create a warm and restful ambience with rustic yet chic interiors.
It's delightful outside with summer flowers, a fruit orchard just across the lane and a charming courtyard with the heated swimming pool and sun loungers. In the morning light it’s idyllic having breakfast overlooking the swimming pool, then later enjoy al-fresco evening meals near the barbecue followed by a glass of Cognac in the outdoor lounge.
There are countryside walks and cycle rides on your doorstep – you could even ride as far as Aulnay around 6km away with its cafes, restaurants, supermarket and Sunday morning market. Around 20 minutes by car is the beautiful town of Saint-Jean-d'Angély by the Boutonne River. Explore its winding medieval lanes, half-timbered houses and 18th century townhouses before visiting its Abbey Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The twice-weekly market is a must-see and make the most of summer activities by the river such as pedalos, canoes and kayaks.
Elsewhere, there are so many wonderful day trips to choose from. Visit the distilleries of Cognac and the historic sights of Saintes or simply hire a boat to discover the Charente, one of France’s most beautiful rivers. To the north are the marshland, canals and rivers of Le Marais Poitevin, also best explored by boat, whilst the cities of Angoulême and La Rochelle are other highlights of the region.
Not to mention the magnificence of Île de Ré, less than 90 minutes by car, with its incredible landscapes, lovely villages, cycling trails, watersports and sweeping sandy beaches. At the end of the day, return to your little country escape and enjoy fresh seafood from the Atlantic accompanied by Île de Ré wine in your cosy courtyard by candlelight.
What you should know…
- Located in a little hamlet in a rural setting, a car is essential in this part of southwestern France. Bikes are also provided for beautiful cycle rides along the local country lanes.
This home is a part of our Great Value Collection!
Our great value homes:
- may be traditionally styled for a laid back feeling
- may have some simple amenities and features
- mean that you can enjoy top holiday destinations for less!
Property Features
Maison Interiors
Ground Floor
- Small entrance hall and WC
- Open-plan lounge with two sofas and log-burner
- Open-plan dining area and kitchen
First Floor
- Bedroom with double bed
- Bedroom with twin beds
- Bathroom with shower, sink and WC
Outside Grounds
- Courtyard with heated swimming pool (8x4m, depth: 1.4m) with safety gate access (with bolt). Open approximately April to October
- Al-fresco dining table
- Barbecue
- Fruit orchard (across the lane)
- Bikes
Le Petit Verger is in the Charente-Maritime region of southwestern France. The house is located in a...
| Nearest Airport |
Rochelle Airport/Aéroport de Poitiers-Biard
(89km/92km) |
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Limoges/Bordeaux
(155km/172km) |
| Nearest Ferry Port |
Saint-Malo/Caen/Calais
(415km/456km/750km) |
Location
About the surrounding area of Le Petit VergerLe Petit Verger is in the Charente-Maritime region of southwestern France. The house is located in a hamlet allowing you to experience authentic rural life amongst locals surrounded by countryside landscapes, vineyards and fields of summer sunflowers. There are country walks and glorious cycle rides on your doorstep.
If arriving by plane, the nearest airports are La Rochelle (89km), just over an hour away, alongside Poitiers-Biard (92km), Bordeaux (172km) and Limoges (155km). Alternatively, it is around a four to five hour drive from the likes of Saint-Malo and Caen ferry ports whilst the nearest train station is in the town of Saint-Jean-d'Angély (if arriving from Paris, change at Niort).
Car hire is essential here in such a rural setting. There is a seasonal street truck serving food and drink around 1.5km away whilst the nearest small town is Aulnay (6km), home to several cafes, bars, restaurants, a supermarket and a charming market on a Sunday morning.
Discover further restaurants and amenities in Saint-Jean-d'Angély (20km), a historic town with winding medieval lanes, half-timbered houses, 18th century townhouses and a partly pedestrianised centre with two main squares, one which hosts a bustling market two mornings a week. The town’s Abbey Church is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are some lovely walks, cycle rides, fishing opportunities and other summer activities by the Boutonne River.
Heading further south towards the Charente River, soak up the historic ambience of Cognac (38km) and visit some of the town’s famous distilleries – Cognac also has a fine reputation for its gastronomy. Saintes (42km) is a joy to explore with its rich heritage – admire white stone houses alongside the impressive amphitheatre, Cathedral Saint-Pierre and the 12th century Basilique Saint Eutrope de Saintes, another UNESCO World Heritage site.
Niort (48km) features yet more historical highlights and it is the gateway to the Marais Poitevin, a large area of marshes, canals, rivers and woodland ideal for nature exploration, boat trips and a range of outdoor activities.
The handsome city of Angoulême (62km) is another fantastic day out, famed for its annual vintage car race and comic art museum, Musée de la Bande Dessinée. In the other direction is the maritime town of Rochefort (57km) and La Rochelle (85km) by the Atlantic coast.
Drive across the La Rochelle’s 2km long bridge to reach Île de Ré (95km) for wonderful landscapes, pretty villages, endless cycling, watersports and sweeping beaches. The beautiful island of Île d'Oléron is also around a 90-minute drive away.
Golf lovers have a choice of various 9 and 18-hole courses across the region including courses near Cognac, Saintes, La Rochelle, Île d'Oléron and Île de Ré.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Rochelle Airport/Aéroport de Poitiers-Biard
(89km/92km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Limoges/Bordeaux
(155km/172km) |
||
| Nearest Ferry Port |
Saint-Malo/Caen/Calais
(415km/456km/750km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Saint-Jean-d'Angély
(19km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Local food truck (seasonal) or Aulnay
(1.5km/6km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Small rural village
(2.5km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Aulnay
(7.5km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
Aulnay/Saint-Jean-d'Angély
(6km/20km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf Louis Rouyer Guillet
(38km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis |
Aulnay Loulay Tennis Club
(6.5km) |
||
Region
Aquitaine’s reputation as a varied and enchanting destination is well-earned – whether you’re looking for relaxation or excitement, this beautiful part of south-western France is a feast for every one of the senses. To make sure you’re getting the very best of your holiday (and to clue you up if you’re thinking of going) check out our wonderful travel guide – it’s full of tips, info and the things you really shouldn’t miss when you visit unforgettable Aquitaine.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesSoak up the rural ambience of southwestern France while staying at Le Petit Verger with your family. As well as a double and twin bedroom, a cot (and highchair) can be requested.
There are walks straight from your doorstep and cycle rides along the country lanes passing farmland, vineyards and summer sunflowers. Horse-riding is a wonderful way to explore the Charente-Maritime and there are plenty of water-based activities on rivers across the region (and by the Atlantic coast of course).
The nearest large town, Saint-Jean-d'Angély, is only a 20-minute drive away where there are lovely walks by the river alongside seasonal activities such as kayaking, canoeing and pedal boats. Take a picnic to the large park by the river’s edge and make the most of the playground, skatepark, ping-pong, summer inflatables and more (there is also an indoor pool complex with slides for rare rainy days). Just outside the town, try go-karting at Passion Karting.
Water-lovers can hire boats along the peaceful Charente River near Cognac or take leisurely boat excursions to tour the scenery near Saintes, Cognac or Jarnac. To the north, the Marais Poitevin network of rivers, canals and marshland can also be explored by canoe, kayak or boat.
Other wonderful days out include the islands of Île d'Oléron and Île de Ré, just over an hour away by car, both with plenty of family-friendly activities, fantastic beaches, cycling trails and watersports.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Go-Karting
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Board games
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- Bicycles Provided
Extras
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
| Security deposit | €300 paid via bank transfer to the owner before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €300 paid via bank transfer to the owner before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes and logs for the woodburner (in April, May and October). The downstairs is heated with a log burner and the upstairs has electric heaters in both bedrooms and a heated towel rail in the bathroom. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, changed weekly. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes, changed weekly. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax is included. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately April to October. Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming. |
| Pool heating charge? | Included. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Changeover day | Friday. All other changeover days on request. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Pets welcome? | A maximum of two house-trained dogs may be allowed, on request only and with prior agreement with the owner. Dogs will not be allowed in the swimming pool or on the furniture. Puppies are not allowed. |
| Smoking Allowed? | No. |
| Other Ts and Cs | A cot and highchair can be requested. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 4 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| May 20th 2024 - May 24th 2024 | £850 |
| May 24th 2024 - Jun 21st 2024 | £957 |
| Jun 21st 2024 - Jul 12th 2024 | £1,505 |
| Jul 12th 2024 - Aug 30th 2024 | £1,935 |
| Aug 30th 2024 - Sep 27th 2024 | £1,065 |
| Sep 27th 2024 - May 23rd 2025 | £850 |
| May 23rd 2025 - Jun 20th 2025 | £957 |
| Jun 20th 2025 - Jul 11th 2025 | £1,505 |
| Jul 11th 2025 - Aug 29th 2025 | £1,935 |
| Aug 29th 2025 - Sep 26th 2025 | £1,065 |
| Sep 26th 2025 - Nov 21st 2025 | £850 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
When did you become the owner?
In 2013.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The character of the property with its beamed vaulte...
Read moreOwner Profile
When did you become the owner?
In 2013.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The character of the property with its beamed vaulted ceiling and stone walls was a real charmer. We also loved that it was steeped in history and felt excited to be part of that. As nature-lovers, the spot it's in was a huge pull, tucked away amid the tranquility of the maize and sunflower fields.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
The property is actually the remnants of a 14th century château. It was owned by the aristocratic De Beauchamps family. Charles-Gregoire de Beauchamps was the last marquis to have owned it, and fled France during the French Revolution when he found himself on the wrong side of history. Our gite is thought to have been the stables to the château, although there were parts of it re-built in 1836 when it was damaged in a fire.
What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
Don't forget to look up on a clear night. We have the most beautiful starry skies due to the lack of light pollution.
Reviews
-
One of the prettiest places I have ever stayed
My husband and I stayed recently for one week and it was so idyllic. The gite is absolutely gorgeous so cosy and has everything you need, the owners have really thought of everything. One of the prettiest places I have ever stayed. We thoroughly enjoyed the heated pool, dined al fresco and spent most evenings in the covered seated area drinking a few vinos. We made use of the bikes available and rode through the hamlets with sunflowers in full bloom to nearby Aulnay. We had some fabulous days out visiting Île de Ré, an island with gorgeous restaurants and shops, an absolute gem. Not far was Saintes, a historic city with a Roman amphitheater definitely worth a visit. Really enjoyed Saint Jean d'Angély a very charming and atmospheric old town. We really didn't want to leave this place and can't wait to book up next year. Can't recommend this place enough. Thank you.
-
A hidden gem
The moment I booked I knew we were going to have a great time. The hosts were extremely helpful. When we arrived everything was just perfect. As a family of 5 we had lots of different outside areas where we could relax, play games, or read. The boys had lots of fun in the pool. With the added bonus it's the same depth throughout so my 6 year old who isn't a confident swimmer was confident.
The little touches throughout the cottage were lovely and all the bedrooms were tastefully decorated and very comfortable.
Even though we were visiting during the pandemic we felt extremely safe and enjoyed every minute. It was a shame we couldn't secure a second week but understandably they were fully booked. I wouldn't hesitate in staying again.
Also big thank you to Mike and Marie for looking after us while we were there. A lovely couple who couldn't do enough for us. They made us feel extremely welcome. Thank you all for a wonderful family holiday. -
Most wonderful holiday!
We had the most wonderful two weeks here in August 2018 with our three young children. The property is great with everything you need and in particular the private pool is just superb and the children spent many hours in there! We used the bikes provided at the property and enjoyed riding through the French countryside on the quiet country lanes in the surrounding area. We did lots of day trips from here too including visiting La Rochelle, Ile de Re and Vert Venice. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this property for a holiday and hopefully we will be back again soon.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
