near Saintes in the Charente Maritime
The area surrounding the Gite of La Cagouille has a wealth of all types of activities for all ages and interests. There are 4 adult bikes available and there are many quiet lanes for cycling or walking and we are less than 10 mins walk from the Charente river where permits for fishing are available.
There are 18 hole golf courses at Saintes, Cognac, Royan and La Rochelle and numerous 6 or 9 hole courses also. Karting and horse riding are also only 10 minutes away. The area is also very relaxing for some more gentle pursuits such as painting/drawing and wildlife/bird watching.
The house is situated in a small hamlet surrounded by vineyards and fields of wild flowers. A short ten minute stroll will take you to the banks of the beautiful slow flowing Charente river, a haven of tranquility with bank side fisherman, canoeists and holiday river boats. A half hour walk along the river bank will take you to the "bac", a small two car ferry ( no charge) that crosses the river to Chaniers. This lively little village boasts 2 bars, 2 hairdressers, 2 bakers, small co-op, butcher, florist, post office, 2 restaurants a snack bar and an ATM machine.
A drive of 20 mins will take you to the fantastic old town of Cognac. For those with an interest in the produce of the vine, here you will find all the big Cognac houses that open their doors to edifying tours and , of course, "tastings". As well as the large Cognac houses there are many small local viticulturists who also give tastings in a much less formal environment. There is some very impressive architecture in the town and a visit to Chateau des Valois is recommended.
After a 45mins drive the historic port city of La Rochelle can be found. La Rochelle is the "prefecture" (capital) of the Charente Maritime region. The harbour ramparts are an impressive backdrop to the city square with its many bars and cafes. Access to the nearby islands of Ile de Re and Oleron can be gained by taking the 3km toll bridge from La Pallice, a suburb of La Rochelle. Ile de Re is famous for it's oyster production and magnificent sandy beaches. The famous Fort Boyard is also just along the coast. There is also a fantastic aquarium that is well worth a visit.
Aquarium
Local Information
There are some fantastic golf courses around the region, both 9, 18, and unusually 6 holes!.
The Cordouan course at Golf de Royan is quite simply a magnificent setting, with the course cut through the pine forest of La Courbre right on the Atlantic coast.
The Golf de Forges situated between Niort and Poitiers is made up of three 9 hole courses all of which suit different handicap levels.
The course of Golf du Cognac surrounds a Chateau and vineyard making it a spectacular setting for a good challenge.
Local Course Information