The region of Charente Maritime is one of the sunniest parts of France and benefits from a mostly sunny and warm climate from April through October. The influence of the Gulf Stream means that winters can be as mild as the Mediterranean. Cognac & Saintes are around 30km away and Royan is around 40km from the estate. The airports of Bordeaux, Angouleme and La Rochelle are just over 1 hours drive away and are served by an increasing number of UK regional airports.
St. Genis & Pons are both 5-10 minutes drive away, where there are restaurants and small shops. The nearest beach is only 35 minutes drive. There are 3 golf courses: Saintes (typical UK type club), Cognac (good course, above average) and Royan (reminds one of the Berkshire courses - pine on sand - good course).
The area has many historical sites relating to its past including the periods of Roman occupation, Richard Coeur de Lion and Eleanor of Aquitane, the French Revolution and the Second World War. As the centre of Cognac production, the towns of Cognac and Jarnac are must visits with guided tours around the headquarters of Hennesey, Martell, Remy Martin, Otard, Hine etc.
The coast line from St Georges de Didonne north to St Palais sur Mer has miles of sandy beaches and good fish restaurants. The towns of Royan, La Rochelle and Rochefort are interesting places to visit and are all around one hour's drive away.
The area abounds with many fine restaurants, some more expensive than others but all incredible value for money. Many local artisans welcome visits to view their business, including barrel making, wood carving and sculpture, pottery production, chocolate making and many more.
The wine production areas of Bordeaux are within easy reach with the Blaye region only half an hour away and St Emilion just over an hour by car. From the towns of Blaye or Royan it is possible to take a car ferry across to the Medoc.
The city of Bordeaux can be reached in around one hour with its good shopping, art galleries, museums and historical buildings. The same can be said for Saintes. Within an hour there are three top golf courses at Saintes, Cognac and Royan with more around Bordeaux.
Both sea fishing and river fishing are popular in the area, and only 5km away you'll find good quality local tennis courts. There are horse stables around providing riding for all levels through the local woodlands. A very local stable provides carriage rides around the lanes of the area. An international length go-cart track is nearby and canoes are available for hire on the local river.
