In the heart of a rural village, surrounded by wooded valleys and beautiful countryside, is the romantic 14th century tower, Tour St. Thérèse. Perfectly positioned next to a historic church in the sunny region of Charente, this is the perfect place to unwind and relax in a unique and exquisite setting.

It is said that the tower was added to the adjoining medieval house, Prieure St. Thérèse, as accommodation for nuns when the local baron gave the house to the church in the 14th century.

The devoted and talented owner has created a chic yet characterful ambience throughout the tower; it’s like a step back in time to a bygone era. You’ll love the eclectic French furnishings and English antiques mixed with French country crockery and linen, from embroidered bed sheets to delicate pretty china. The semi-circular kitchen is simple yet perfect for preparing your coffee using the vintage French percolator and warming up your croissants for breakfast on the terrace. Should you wish to have dinner cooked for you, your host is very happy to oblige with a couple of days’ notice.

With the large open log fire in the living area and a small yet glorious master bedroom, the tower has an undeniably romantic atmosphere. There is also a second bedroom if you wish to bring family, designed with budding knights and ladies in mind and with a low beamed ceiling. They might even get a visit from an owl who perches on the deep recessed windowsill at night. Both bedrooms are accessed via their own steep and rather narrow spiral staircase, adding to the charm and character of this amazing place.

Outside you can appreciate the serenity. This is a very quiet area with a slow pace of life. The pleasant sounds of the church bells, birdsong and local frogs all add to the atmosphere in this quiet backwater. Massage and yoga, enjoyed in the peaceful surroundings of your garden can be booked by the owner. Alternatively, on the many cloudless evenings, snuggle up by the fire-pit and contemplate the starry skies.

This unique home is perfectly positioned within the Deux-Sevres in Charente, known to be France’s second sunniest region. There is a good choice of restaurants in neighbouring villages, about ten to fifteen minutes by car, where visitors are greeted with a warm welcome. You’ll find a supermarket, cafés, and bars just 8 km away in Thenezay and the beautiful medieval town of St. Loup is just fifteen minutes by car.

This beautiful area, full of wooded valleys, streams, ponds and shallow, flowing rivers is a joy for walkers and cyclists. From great local food markets, vide greniers and country trail walks to riding, lake fishing and canoeing, there is a plethora of activities in the area. Historical Poitiers, an hour away, is a city full of centuries-old art and history. Visit the magical chateau and sample some fine sparkling wine in Saumur or head west to the Atlantic coast with its stunning beaches and interesting town of La Rochelle.

Groups of up to twenty-two guests can hire both beautifully renovated homes, Prieure St. Thérèse and Tour St. Thérèse. Together, they are ideal for a celebration, small wedding or special holiday. Although attached, they each have their own separate entrances and gardens. There is the added attraction for guests in Tour St. Thérèse, of the use of the pool in Prieure St. Thérèse's garden when both are booked together.

With such a peaceful and beautiful place to relax in, it will be hard to leave the magical surroundings of your dreamy tower and rose scented gardens.

• Tour St. Thérèse is not suitable for children under the age of 4
• The tower is attached to Prieure St. Thérèse. They can be booked independently or together, allowing groups of up to 21 guests to holiday next door to each other.
• You do have to be fairly agile to manage the two separate spiral staircases up to each of the bedrooms.
• The owner, her guests and her cat may on occasion require access to her own home via the tower garden, however this will be kept to a minimum and guests' privacy will be respected at all times.
• Tour St Therese is rural and car hire is strongly recommended.