26 August 2016 by Laura Habgood

Le Pommier and Le Cerisier, Le Tilleu, nr Rochefoucald, Charente region

This month’s featured properties are gites at Le Tilleul, comprised of 2 fabulous holiday homes, Le Pommier (ref: PC003363_A) and Le Cerisier (ref: PC003363_B).

The gites are both converted hay barns that have recently been renovated to an extremely high standard; yet still retain many of their original features and charm including an original bread oven in Le Cerisier!

The owners – Les & Sara Henderson

Le Tilleul is owned by ex-military helicopter pilot Les Henderson, who moved to France back in 2010 with his wife Sara and their 2 children.

Restoration and facilities

Les and his family really have put a lot thought and hard work into restoring the gites, and they have been beautifully renovated with everything you could possibly need to enjoy a well-deserved break in sunny Poitou Charentes.

Both properties have access to a large 13 x 6m heated swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers and parasols, and there is also a shady summer terrace that overlooks the swimming area and is perfect for supervising the children enjoying themselves in the pool! Plus there’s a fully-equipped gym and a 4 person sauna that can be enjoyed by guests for a small additional charge.

On-site activities & facilities

There is plenty on-site to keep children, teenagers (and some of the adults!) entertained, including a volleyball/badminton net, mini football goalposts, a table tennis area, 14ft trampoline with safety net and an enclosed children’s play area containing a climbing frame, swings, slide and rope ladder.

If you want to learn a new sport whilst on holiday, there is also a petanque court and croquet lawn in the garden.

Open plan architecture, traditional character

One of our favourite features about the Gites at Le Tilleul is the gorgeous open plan living space on the first floor of Le Pommier with its exposed beams, stone walls and vaulted ceiling that leads out onto the beautiful south facing balcony, showcasing stunning views out over the garden and to the Charentais countryside beyond.

Although smaller, Le Cerisier is equally lovely and has its own private outdoor terrace featuring an electrically operated sunshade, with patio furniture and gas barbecue.

Cognac & other local attractions

There’s loads to see and do nearby, make sure to plan a trip to one of the world famous Cognac houses – most offer guided tours of their facilities and often an opportunity to sample their products at the end!

For the more adventurous, why not pay a visit to the tree-top Aventure Parc at Massignac which is around 10 minutes away from Le Tilleul and has a variety of courses available for all ability levels.

If tree-top thrills are not for you, pay a visit to Grand Etang de St Esteph, a lake complex with safe swimming areas, sandy beach and free kayaking – the perfect place for a picnic! Alternatively, the garden at Le Tilleul is the ideal spot to spend a lazy day soaking up the famous Charentais sun!

Pricing

Le Pommier sleeps 6 and Le Cerisier can sleep up to 5 people with prices starting from just £545 pw – a fabulous place for your next family holiday!