A lovely renovated traditional stone house with many character features and exposed beams. Double height entrance hall complete with crystal chandelier. Luxury farmhouse-style kitchen with island/bar, leading out to the terrace and gardens. The 4 bedrooms upstairs sleep 9, there is a further sofa bed in the downstairs living room and a day bed that makes into two full size single beds in another room. The 12m by 5m pool is heated with large terrace for sunbathing on the plentiful supply of sunbeds and adjoins a covered terrace for outside dining, there is also a further terrace off the dining room and kitchen with another large table for sitting, eating, relaxing and taking in the beautiful views. The property is in its own large grounds over 2 acres with no near neighbours, plenty of space for children, secure parking. It is only suitable for children under 5 years under supervision, due to terrace drops. Located on its own with expansive views of unspoilt surrounding countryside, the property is within 5 minutes of Brossac with its leisure lake/beach activities, restaurants, tennis courts and local shops. The market towns of Chalais and Barbezieux are each 10 minutes drive and have impressive chateaux and restaurants. The beautiful town of Cognac is 45 minutes away while the elegant port town of Bordeaux is only an hour's drive. Aubeterre, one of the prettiest villages in France, is 20 minutes and the beautiful Atlantic coast at Royan 1 hour. There is a restaurant within walking distance in the village. Chalais Market Another attraction is the weekly Monday market at Chalais, the city with the nearest train station. Not quite a Farmer's Market, nor a Flea market, you can find all sorts of knick knacks early Monday morning from 08:00 until about mid-day. Perhaps you want some fresh produce, fruit, cheese or meats or perhaps you're more interested in some traditional French hot food. Vendors sell chichis (churros), crêpes, paella, moules (mussels), and other assortments of delicacies. Of course there are clothes, accessories, and other goodies for the house. The vast array of scented soaps and jewellery make excellent gifts. Chalais Chateau At one end of the market, a steep incline leads you up to Chateau de Chalais. Though no longer functioning as a chateau, you can still cross the drawbridge and wander the courtyard and get a glimpse of the rolling hills that make up the Charente region. Owned by a well known French comedian the castle is in living condition and guided tours of between 1 and 2 hours, sometimes in English, are carried out by very enthusiastic volunteer guides representing the "Association for the Safeguarding of Chalais Country Heritage". In addition, there is a restaurant just off the courtyard. They have a very reasonable set menu for lunch. Close by you will find the walking trails right in the heart of the forest and the home to the Maison de la Forêt. Dedicated to the trees and to human activity, the Maison de la Foret is a historic heritage site for Montguyon and its surroundings dotted with castles and Roman churches alongside the night markets and various summer events. In the vicinity, you can discover the Dordogne region, the truffle capital; the river Blaye and the Gironde estuary, the village of Aubeterre, one of the most beautiful towns in France. Nestled in South Charente, Brossac is a picturesque village with all the conveniences and amenities to make your visit a comfortable one. The community is a mix of French locals, English and Dutch families, but still manages to retain its distinctive French flavour and culture. For outdoor activities, Brossac offers everything from hiking trails, horseback riding, jetskis, tennis, golf and football. Join the locals for a friendly game of Pétanque. For the more leisure minded, enjoy a relaxing afternoon visiting the art gallery, vineyards, wineries, or a quiet drink and chat with the townsfolk at the local pubs: try a pineau, Charente's gift to the world. Cycling Routes If you want to keep fit in your holiday you can join the Brossac community in one of their cycling routes. The departure point is La Place de Marroniers and there are two possibilities: The discovery circuit, also known as circuit 4B, which is 19 kms long and has a low level of difficulty. The exploring circuit, also known as circuit 4C, which is 34 kms long and has been labeled as difficult. Both routes count with numerous sightseeing points along the way, places to refill your water bottle in the hotter days, even one or two picnic spots nearby. Due to its more extensive itinerary, route 4C counts with 2 stops to enjoy some of the world heritage sites from the Charente region. For more information on the routes, please visit Brossac Tourist Information Office Brossac is surrounded by beautiful countryside and is great for walking or cycling. Brossac lake is a short walk away being about 2 km outside the village. However, if you wish to travel further afield, then you will need some form of transport. Trains The nearest SNCF train service runs from Chalais, just 8 km from Brossac. This is on the Paris - Angoulême - Bordeaux line and connections to other destinations can be made at these main stations. Visit TER SNCF Schedules for more information. Car Hire is available from all airports and train stations. The nearest taxi service is 8km away in Chalais. It costs approximately 25€ for a ride from Chalais to Brossac, and may take up to 10 minutes for the ride.