Our typically french cottage dates back to the 16th century and enjoys panoramic views over the chateau of Villebois Lavalette in the Charente to the front and the beautiful countryside of the Dordogne to the rear - you are, therefore, ideally located to explore both these departments during your stay. The cottage sits in the 1.5 acre grounds of the original farmhouse and, whilst it is attached to the farmhouse, it is separated by a courtyard wall which provides you with privacy but the owners are on hand to deal with any problems should they arise. The cottage itself has all the charm you would expect of a building of this age with its 2 foot thick walls to keep the interior cool when the sun outside gets too much to the large Charentaise fireplace with log burner to keep you warm if the evenings get chilly. Cornflower blue shutters and aromatic honeysuckle climbing the walls complete the rustic chocolate box charm. The cottage comfortably accommodates 2 adults but there is an additional single bed in the bedroom with a privacy screen, if required, should you be a party of three adults. There is also a bed settee in the downstairs living area should you be a party of four. Unfortunately, we do no longer accept children as we now have a young dog who is nervous of them. The cottage comes with exclusive use of the heated in ground 8m x 4m swimming pool (May to September) which also benefits from the stunning views to the chateau and has a covered seating area to escape to if the sun gets too much. To the rear of the cottage is a stone built barbecue with patio and seating area which enjoys the view over the Dordogne. At night, sit outside and enjoy the spectacle of brilliant stars that puncture the inky blackness of the sky, the likes of which you will only get when away from the hustle and bustle of city lights. When you are ready to leave the tranquility of your holiday base you are ideally situated to visit the many famous attractions of the area. Villebois Lavalette with its chateau, Saturday morning market, boulangerie, restaurant and bar is only 5 minutes drive away. Likewise, La Rochebeaucourt, situated just across the border in the Dordogne has à boulangerie, bar and restaurants and again, is just a five minute car journey. Angouleme (capital of the Charente) , Brantome (Venice of the Perigord) and Aubeterre-sur-Dronne (officially one of the most beautiful villages in France) are all within 30 minutes drive. For those looking for activities, there is a zip wire park, golf, tennis, river beaches, canoeing, a water park and much more within easy reach for a day out. But, if you are just looking to kick back and relax, then set yourself up by the pool or on one of the patios outside the cottage and just take in the views which change throughout the day as the light changes culminating in a truly stunning evening sunset - all with a glass of your favourite tipple in hand - what could be better - ENJOY!!