Manoir Du Village
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Overview
In a captivating region steeped in rich history, stay in a Maison de Maître dating back to the 19th century, located on the edge of a rural French village in the Thouet Valley, a hidden gem of south-western France.
Drive through the gated entrance and it feels like a step back in time as you admire the façade of this handsome house. Built around the mid-1800s, Manoir du Village remained in the same family until the early 21st century when it was sold to its current dedicated owners who have restored their home to a beautiful standard. Each room exudes traditional style with carefully chosen furnishings and antiques making the most of the original features and glorious light of this south-facing manor house.
Manoir du Village has an interesting heritage – you will be able to view the photographs showing how the original owners sheltered American soldiers from the Germans in World War II. Nowadays it is a fine holiday home for a group of friends or family hoping to spend quality time together in characterful surroundings set in wonderful grounds.
Suitable for up to 10 guests, the living spaces include a formal salon with a cocktail cabinet, a cosy TV lounge, an elegant dining room and a small kitchen that has been well-equipped for dining chez-vous. There are four king or emperor-size double bedrooms (two of which can be converted into twins) across the two upper floors whilst a fifth bedroom (a twin) can be found on a mezzanine level above one of the lounges.
The mature gardens are a joy to spend time in whether seeking shade beneath the huge yew trees, picking figs and walnuts from the fruit trees, swimming in the inviting swimming pool or dining al-fresco on the long table and benches by the gas barbecue. There’s even a wine-cellar where tasting sessions can be arranged. Take a stroll around the vast grounds and gaze out to the wheat or sunflowers that are farmed on the adjoining field.
As you explore the bucolic landscapes of this alluring region, discover flower-filled villages, medieval market towns, grand castles and peaceful riverside walks along the Thouet River with a wealth of fascinating wildlife. Admire the Romanesque church in nearby Airvault, swim in the lake close to Moncontour and visit the historic attractions of Thouars (18km), classified as a Ville d'art et d'histoire.
A little further north, spend time in Saumur by the Loire River, sip wine in a characterful bar in Chinon and visit the incredible Fontevraud-l'Abbaye, less than an hour away. Some of the Loire valley’s iconic châteaux can also be reached for a brilliant day out, as can two of France’s most popular attraction parks, Poitier’s Futuroscope and the extraordinary Puy du Fou, around 80km by car.
What you should know…
- There are four main bedrooms on the first and second floor of the Manoir. There is also a fifth bedroom (a twin) located on a mezzanine level above the TV lounge. Please see the “Features” tab for full details on the layout.
- Please note that the wine-tasting cave is not yet available, but expected Summer 2024.
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
Manoir Interiors
Ground Floor
- Hallway with WC and sink
- Formal salon with cocktail cabinet and wood fire in feature fireplace
- TV lounge with Smart TV and large open fireplace. Stairs lead to mezzanine level
- Dining room with table and chairs for 10 guests and open fireplace
- Small kitchen (via three stone steps), fully-equipped including dishwasher, microwave, electric range, air-fryer, fridge-freezer, small round table and two chairs. Door leads to courtyard
Mezzanine Level (above the TV lounge)
- Bedroom with twin beds or day room for reading
First Floor
- Bedroom with king-size double bed, feature fireplace, wardrobe and en suite WC with sink
- Bathroom with combination bath/shower, sink and WC
- Master bedroom with emperor-size double bed and feature fireplace
Second Floor
- Worktop with coffee tray, kettle and concealed washing machine/dryer and fridge
- Bedroom with emperor-size double or twin beds and en suite shower room
- Bedroom with emperor-size double or twin beds and en suite shower room
Outside Grounds
- Salt-water swimming pool (10x5m, depth: 1.5m) with electric safety cover. Open April to end-September. Can be heated (on request)
- Poolside sun loungers, parasol, table and chairs
- Open terrace with al-fresco dining table and benches (for 10 guests), fridge and music system
- Gas and charcoal barbecue
- Mature garden with fruit and walnut trees
- Barn with old wine cellar, table and chairs (wine-tasting can be arranged)
- Other outbuildings (children should be supervised)
- Bikes (x4)
- Trampoline (with safety net)
- Field (farmed by local farmer, usually wheat or sunflowers)
- Automatic gate
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Heating
- Fireplace
- Smart TV with Amazon firestick
- Stocked cocktail cabinet (spirits and Pineau de Charentes)
- Table tennis
- Bikes (x4)
- Trampoline (with safety net)
- Hairdryers
- Washing machine and dryer
Location
About the surrounding area of Manoir Du VillageManoir du Village is a 19th century Maison de Maître located on the edge of a rural French village in the Deux-Sèvres department of south-western France, close to the Vienne border, almost equidistant between Saumur (50km) and Poitiers (55km).
There is a lively open-air French tapas bar on the edge of the village which is usually open May to end-September. The next village along (around 4km by car) is home to a restaurant (open lunchtimes) and there is a bakery within a short drive. Crossing over to the Vienne department, the village of Moncontour (7km) has a grocery store, restaurants, pharmacy and a small handful of other amenities as well as the impressive Donjon de Moncontour. There is a lake near the village with summer water-based activities such as kayaking, water-skiing and supervised swimming alongside a pleasant lakeside restaurant.
There is a larger supermarket and a small handful of good restaurants in Airvault (8km), an attractive historic town in the Thouet Valley. Visit the Romanesque Eglise Saint Pierre d'Airvault, embrace the ambience of the Saturday morning market and explore the town’s charming medieval centre. Just outside Airvault, take time to discover the beauty of Domaine de Soulièvres, a vast riverside estate perfect for woodland walks and cycle rides with picnic tables and play areas for children.
Admire the half-timbered houses in the pretty village of Saint-Loup-sur-Thouet (13km) as well as the incredible 11th century riverside château. Look out for the Sunday morning market and try the delicious goats cheese produced in this region. The GR36 hiking trail passes through the village and beyond. Indeed, there are many glorious walks through the bucolic landscapes of the Thouet Valley.
Watersport lovers can also enjoy kayaking excursions along the river around a 20-minute drive away near Thouars (18km). The town is famous for its 17th century castle and its enchanting medieval centre also features many noteworthy historic houses dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. The town is classified as a Ville d'art et d'histoire and hosts a market on a Tuesday and Friday morning.
Heading north-east of Thouars, the exquisite riverside town of Chinon (50km) is a wonderful place to spend time with its rich heritage, characterful wine bars and kayaking/canoeing opportunities along the Vienne River. The world-famous Fontevraud-l'Abbaye (45km) is less than an hour away, as are the troglodyte dwellings of Rochemenier (55km).
You will soon reach the Loire River where you can sample the white sparkling wines of beautiful Saumur (53km) or potter around the riverside village of Candes-Saint-Martin (51km), one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’. Of course the Loire and its surrounding landscapes are a paradise for keen cyclists. Meanwhile, some of the Loire valley’s iconic castles include Château d'Azay-le-Rideau (72km), Château de Villandry (83km) and Château Royal d'Amboise (128km).
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Poitiers-Biard Airport
(50km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Angers-Loire/Tours Val de Loire Airport
(101km/109km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Gare de Thouars
(18km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
In a small rural village
(0km) |
||
| Nearest Bar/Pub |
(Seasonal opening only)
(500m) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Next village - lunch only
(4km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Airvault
(8km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
Airvault
(8km) |
||
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 AgesHow wonderful to stay in a historic Maison de Maître in an authentic, rural village. As well as the large and spacious garden with its swimming pool, families can enjoy the trampoline (with safety netting) and table tennis within the grounds.
In the Deux-Sèvres department of south-western France, there are plenty of activities to keep children entertained. It is only a 7km drive to the historic village of Moncontour, home to the impressive Donjon de Moncontour and close to an attractive lake with water-skiing, kayaking and supervised swimming in the height of the summer (check opening times and dates in advance). Watersport lovers also note that there are kayaking excursions near Thouars, around a 20-minute drive away.
The bucolic landscapes of the Thouet Valley offer ample opportunities for long countryside walks and cycle rides. One especially wonderful area for families is the Domaine de Soulièvres, just outside the historic town of Airvault by the Thouet River, a vast estate with walks, cycle tracks, picnic tables and play areas for youngsters.
To the north you will find the Loire valley and its iconic châteaux (many within a 90-minute drive) as well as the fascinating troglodyte dwellings of Rochemenier. The Bioparc de Doué-la-Fontaine (48km) is another great day out with over 1800 animals in incredible surroundings with troglodyte character.
Two other popular attractions of south-western France include the huge theme park Futuroscope (55km) near Poitiers and one of the most visited attraction parks in France, Puy du Fou (80km).
Kids Activities Close-by
- Walk to Village
- <1hr to Airport
- Watersports
- Cycling
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Trampoline
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- Bicycles Provided
- Table Tennis
Services Available
- Chef/Cook Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Pre-Stocked Fridge Available
- Wine-Tasting Available
- Chef/Cook Available
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
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Shopping service for arrival
- Evening meal on arrival
- Chef
- Wine-tasting
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 | £1000 paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | £1000 paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes (except heating). |
| Heating costs included? | No, extra £100 per week for oil fired heating (on request). |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, changed once for stays of over 14 nights. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| 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. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately April to end-September. 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? | The pool can be heated via an electric heater (but the pool does not normally need heating from May to September). There is an extra charge of approximately £100 per week for this, payable locally - please request in advance. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Changeover day | Saturday. All other changeover days on request. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Not allowed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax Included. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 10 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| May 3rd 2024 - May 25th 2024 | £2,150 |
| May 25th 2024 - Jun 1st 2024 | £3,369 |
| Jun 1st 2024 - Jul 1st 2024 | £2,867 |
| Jul 1st 2024 - Sep 1st 2024 | £3,369 |
| Sep 1st 2024 - Oct 1st 2024 | £2,867 |
| Oct 1st 2024 - Dec 23rd 2024 | £2,150 |
| Christmas & New Year | £3,369 |
| Jan 6th 2025 - May 24th 2025 | £2,150 |
| May 24th 2025 - May 31st 2025 | £3,369 |
| May 31st 2025 - Jun 30th 2025 | £2,867 |
| Jun 30th 2025 - Aug 31st 2025 | £3,369 |
| Aug 31st 2025 - Sep 30th 2025 | £2,867 |
| Sep 30th 2025 - Nov 4th 2025 | £2,150 |
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?
We first viewed the property in August 2008. We had looked at about 20 homes between Saumur and our house. This was the second o...
Read moreOwner Profile
When did you become the owner?
We first viewed the property in August 2008. We had looked at about 20 homes between Saumur and our house. This was the second one and we had our “coup de coeur” before we even entered the house. There was no doubt it needed work, and looking back we have achieved a lot. The house had been in the same French family since it was built in 1860.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The last owner had died and her nephew and siblings were selling the house. He and his family are still friends of ours, who we see regularly. It was such a wonderful opportunity to find a house which had not been changed too much, and which retained its best features and charm. The garden was very overgrown, and the house on the cusp of deteriorating, but we feel we have brought it into the 21st century, whilst retaining its grand, yet cosy feel.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
One of the previous owners was the first mayor of the village. During WWII the family sheltered American Soldiers from the Gestapo, who had their headquarters in one of the villages nearby. We have several photos of them looking out of the upstairs windows and generally enjoying the family’s hospitality. We have a photo album for guests to see the history of the house and its occupants, with photos of the property before we did anything.
For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really…
Must do?
The house is in a very good area for visiting lots of different things. It is approx 1.5 hours from many of the grand chateaux of the Loire, Chambord, Chenonceau and others. Poitiers is a great city to visit as well as Futuroscope there which is great for all of the family. Saumur has lots of wine producers where you can visit the caves and taste the wine. The cellars are built into the rock hillside rather than underground.
The rivers of the Charente Poitevin are great for boat exploration.
Puy de Fou is a grand spectacle to visit in the nearby vendee.
We love the town of Richelieu which has a fantastic park formed by the grounds of the chateau which is no longer there. It has restaurants and a very good market once a week. It has antiques shops and brocantes several times a year.
Must eat?
There are quite a few restaurants nearby which serve a very reasonable set lunch of good food. In the village we have a great open air French ‘tapas’ bar which is open May to October.
What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
The nearest town 5km away has a great supermarket, boulangeries etc and there is a market every Saturday morning. In the large town 15km away there are markets twice weekly and many choices of shopping and restaurants.
Reviews
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Lovely place for an immersive French, relaxing holiday.
I have been fortunate to stay here a number of times, it is so peaceful in the centre of a typical French village. The grounds are large and well maintained and abundant secure parking.
Lovely outside dining options, on the terrace, by the pool, or if weather is inclement you can dine under cover on the large ‘barn ‘terrace .
The interiors are very French and very comfortable with a lovely snug for watching TV.
It is very convenient for lovely towns such as Chinon, for lunch or browsing the antique shops or Brocantes. There is also a lovely lake nearby that offers water skiing , wake boarding, swimming and a restaurant to keep the kids entertained and happy.
All in all a lovely place for an immersive French, relaxing holiday.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
