La Zuzaliere is a 200 year old farmhouse built from local limestone called 'tuffe' with roofs of clay pantiles and slate. Surrounded on all sides by rolling countryside it enjoys lovely views. The main part of the garden is south facing creating a sun trap from breakfast time through to evening. There is also a pretty enclosed courtyard surrounded by old stone barns and a wine press. Richelieu is about 10 minutes drive away and is a small picturesque market town with excellent restaurants, friendly bars and a good supermarket. Chinon is about 30 minutes drive away and is a large medieval town with a partly restored chateau and echo. Further afield are other Loire chateaux including the beautiful Azay-le-Rideau (45 mins) and Usse (of Sleeping Beauty fame). Chambord and Chenonceau make a great day out. Futuroscope is about 30 minutes drive away just north of historic Poitiers. There are also lots of vineyards to visit and wines to taste - try Chinon and Haut Poitou.