Not far from the banks of the river, Le Verger is in the Charente department of south-western France and enjoys a rural setting within the 300-acre estate of a historic French chateau (where the owners live), reached via a 2km long chemin.
A small rural village is 2.5km away whilst another pretty village near the Charente River is just a little further, 4km by car, with a restaurant featured in the Michelin Guide (open Thursday to Sunday, reserve ahead) as well as useful amenities such as a well-stocked shop, petrol station, small railway station and pharmacy. There’s also a fishing lake and a lakeside restaurant (seasonal opening days) with live music in the summer.
The medieval village of Tusson (9km) is nearby with its picturesque cafes, restaurants (the owner particularly recommends Tussonaise Wood Fired Pizza Takeaway) and shops as well as an annual brocante. Aigre (8.5km) is an attractive small town by the Aume River with lovely riverside walks, whilst Mansle (10km) is another historic market town with a racetrack (late June to August), fishing by the Charente River as well as canoeing and kayaking opportunities in the height of the summer.
This region offers a wealth of glorious walking opportunities through the Charente valley, classified as one of the EU’s Natura 2000 nature protection areas. Other highlights of the area include villages such as Verteuil-sur-Charente (21km), home to a riverside restaurant with an ancient mill, and Nanteuil-en-Vallée (34km), with its impressive abbey ruins, classified as a ‘village of character’. The town of Ruffec (24km) by the banks of the Liens is also worthy of a visit, especially on market day.
Château de Bayers (17km) can be found in the charming French village of Bayers whilst castle enthusiasts should also visit the amazing Château de La Rochefoucauld (34km) and its wonderful gardens, just north-east of Angoulême.
Angoulême (40km) itself is a fantastic day out for everyone, reached by train from the local railway station in around 15 minutes. In a beautiful setting above the Charente River, there is a wealth of restaurants and cafes in its old town as well as the highly regarded National Comic Strip and Image Centre. The town is also well known for its international classic car race, Le Circuit des Remparts, that takes place in September.
Other great trips include Cognac (47km) and Jarnac (37km), both a must for brandy lovers and a pleasant place for river cruises. Alternatively, venture further west towards the coast whether visiting the oyster farms and waterways south of Marennes-Hiers-Brouage or the family-friendly seaside resort of Royan, both reached in less than a 2-hour drive, perhaps stopping off in historic Saintes (69km) en route.
The 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.
