La Charmante Distillerie
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Overview
This former Cognac distillery will delight young and old as you relax by the swimming pool, pick fruit from the garden, play on the climbing frame or walk through the surrounding woods looking for deer. Pass vineyards, summer sunflowers and hayfields as you explore historic local towns and pretty villages across the sunny Charente region of southern France.
La Charmante Distillerie has been beautifully renovated by its thoughtful and dedicated owners who have preserved so much of the estate’s heritage. Dating back to the 18th century, the domaine is steeped in history with its role as a working Cognac distillery. The estate was once home to the Maison de Maître, a farmhouse for the workers and two barns (which were later used to conceal Jewish workers in WWII). One of those barns containing the distillery has been immaculately transformed into the most wonderful 4-bedroom holiday home, La Charmante Distillerie.
Step into the high-ceilinged living-dining room with carefully curated artwork, a wall-mounted Smart TV and high-end furnishings, open-plan to the luxurious kitchen featuring Christian Lacroix designs. There are two garden-facing bedrooms on the ground floor, ideal for guests who may prefer not to use stairs, both with king-size double beds and gorgeous en suite shower rooms. Discover two further bedrooms upstairs (beds can be made up as a twin or king-size double) alongside a lovely family bathroom with a shower and large bath.
The features here are second-to-none. Guests can expect high-speed internet across the house and garden, reversible air-conditioning throughout, an impressive 65-inch Smart TV and even a telescope for star-gazing. Outside, the heated swimming pool features an integrated security cover surrounded by high specification garden furnishings, poolside dining, a beautiful outdoor lounge and a summer kitchen with a barbecue and wine fridge.
We love that families are warmly welcomed – youngsters will adore the children’s play area and sandpit outside whilst older kids will appreciate the board games, DVDs and good Wi-Fi inside, not to mention the glorious swimming pool! Get back to nature by wandering in the garden picking herbs and fruit, then take a walk through the surrounding woodland teeming with wildlife.
Sustainability is key here as well – products are locally sourced when possible, water recycling systems and the owners hope to introduce a solar energy recovery system in the very near future.
When you are ready to explore further afield, visit the fortified town of Barbezieux-Saint-Hilaire with its good restaurants, twice-weekly market, historic château and charming Charentais buildings. The owners can recommend restaurants across the region for keen gastronomes (as well as arrange a private chef to cook for you at home) and help organise Cognac and wine tasting at local family-run vineyards.
Around half an hour away, explore the picture-perfect village of Aubeterre-sur-Dronne with its winding flower-filled lanes, art studios, craft shops and monolithic church, then stroll down to the river with its summer beach, swimming and other water-based activities. Base de Pleine Nature de Poltrot is another beautiful spot along the Dronne for nature walks, picnics, tree-top activities, canoeing and more.
Other fantastic day trips include the handsome city of Angoulême, the distilleries of Cognac, the market towns of the Périgord Vert (Brantôme and Ribérac, for example) and even the vineyards of Saint-Émilion and Bordeaux. Return to the luxury of La Charmante Distillerie to truly rest in such natural surroundings with glorious views of the idyllic Charente countryside.
What you should know…
- Part of a larger estate, the owners are available in the building next door if you require any assistance. They will clean the pool and terrace area each morning (between 8.00 a.m. and 10.00 a.m.).
Property Features
Maison Interiors
Ground Floor
- Open-plan living and dining area with wall-mounted TV and table for 8 guests
- Open-plan designer kitchen, fully-equipped including hob, microwave-grill, oven and dishwasher
- Laundry room with washing machine and dryer
- Bathroom with shower and WC
- Master bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom with shower
- Bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom with shower
First Floor (sloping ceilings)
- Bedroom (low doorway) with twin beds (can be joined to make a king-size double) and sofa den area
- Bedroom with twin beds (can be joined to make a king-size double)
- Family bathroom with large bath and separate shower
Outside Grounds
- Heated swimming pool (8x4m, depth: 1.45m) with integrated security cover. Open approximately June to end-September (not to be used after 11.00 p.m.)
- Poolside sun loungers and dining area
- Second al-fresco dining area (by the house)
- Summer kitchen with barbecue and wine fridge
- Pergola with tiki-style lighting
- Perimeter lighting around garden
- Children’s play area and sandpit
- Lawned garden
- Badminton
- Boules court
- Herb garden
- Car port (for three cars) with electric charging point
- Additional parking for two cars
Other Facilities
- Reversible air-conditioning
- Telescope for star-gazing
Location
About the surrounding area of La Charmante DistillerieJust over an hour north-east of Bordeaux Airport, this former Cognac distillery is set in one-hectare grounds with fruit trees, herbs and flowers, surrounded by woodland for nature walks and wildlife spotting. This is the sunny Charente department of France, famous for good food, wine and Cognac as well as its relaxed pace of life, beautiful landscapes, historic towns and charming villages.
If arriving by train, Gare d'Angoulême (40km) has arrivals from Paris (the direct TGV service from Gare Montparnasse takes around 2 hours 15 minutes). There are various ferry routes to Saint-Malo, Caen- Ouistreham and Le Havre, all approximately five to six hours away by car. The nearest three airports are Bordeaux, Bergerac and Limoges.
Part of a larger estate, La Charmante Distillerie is set on a country lane leading to a rural village. It’s around a 10-minute drive to Condéon, home to a restaurant-bar open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch (and Friday/Saturday evening). It also acts as a small épicerie selling bread, local produce and wine.
The nearest supermarkets can be found in Barbezieux-Saint-Hilaire (11km), a fortified town on the historic route between Paris, Poitiers, Bordeaux and Spain. There are several restaurants to choose from as well as a twice-weekly market and an impressive château with origins dating back to the 15th century. It’s an attractive town to spend time in with its medieval lanes of traditional Charentais buildings.
The owners can connect you to local family-run vineyards for Cognac and wine tastings whilst food lovers can discover a range of recommended restaurants across the region. Gourmands will especially appreciate the food scene in the handsome city of Angoulême (40km), also loved for its annual vintage car race and Musée de la Bande Dessinée. Just south of the city, Les Sources de Fontbelle is a Michelin starred restaurant set in wonderful forest surroundings.
Heading further north, the town of Cognac (46km) is also renowned for its gastronomy as well as its famous Cognac houses (Hennessy, Martell, Rémy Martin etc). Cognac’s old centre is a joy to potter around with its medieval lanes, historic houses and inviting boutiques whilst the river is very picturesque, best explored by boat. Tour the 10th century Château de Cognac and partake in Cognac tasting opportunities by Otard.
Slightly closer to home, spend time admiring pretty local villages. One of the loveliest is Aubeterre-sur-Dronne (30km) with its steep winding lanes, gorgeous stone houses, flower-filled balconies, art galleries, craft shops, incredible monolithic church and glorious surrounding vistas. Wander down to the riverside beach for summer swimming, water-based activities and picnics. Perhaps combine with a visit to Base de Pleine Nature de Poltrot (33km) for riverside walks and a range of activities including fishing, tree-top trails, canoeing, nature walks, picnics, barbecues and more.
Crossing over to the Dordogne department, take a trip to beautiful Brantôme (71km) for the day, often referred to as ‘the Venice of the Périgord Vert’, or visit the impressive Château de Bourdeilles (65km). The arts and crafts village of Nontron (74km) is another gem of the Périgord Vert whilst Ribérac is worth a visit for its highly regarded Friday morning market.
Meanwhile, wine connoisseurs and history enthusiasts note that you are just over an hour from Saint-Émilion (68km) and its world-famous vineyards, now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The great city of Bordeaux (85km) is another fantastic day out or venture to the western Dordogne and Gironde regions for more Côtes de Bordeaux vineyards and wineries.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Bordeaux Airport
(94km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport
(99km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 3 |
Limoges Airport
(136km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Angoulême
(42km) |
||
| Nearest Ferry Port |
Saint-Malo/Caen Ouistreham
(489km/519km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Small rural village
(1km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Condéon/Barbezieux-Saint-Hilaire
(7km/11km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
E.Leclerc Barbezieux
(11km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
Barbezieux-Saint-Hilaire/Chalais
(11km/23km) |
||
| Nearest City |
Angoulême
(40km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf d'Aubeterre/Golf du Cognac
(32/42km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis |
Tennis Club de Barbezieux
(13km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
Royan
(90km) |
||
Region
Aquitaine’s reputation as a varied and enchanting destination is well-earned – whether you’re looking for relaxation or excitement, this beautiful part of south-western France is a feast for every one of the senses. To make sure you’re getting the very best of your holiday (and to clue you up if you’re thinking of going) check out our wonderful travel guide – it’s full of tips, info and the things you really shouldn’t miss when you visit unforgettable Aquitaine.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesThis stylish French holiday home warmly welcomes families. There’s garden games such as badminton on the lawns, a pétanque court with a children’s set of boules, the wonderful swimming pool (pool toys are available) alongside a children’s play area and sandpit. Families will also appreciate the board games, Smart TV and selection of family-friendly DVDs for rainy days or a break from the sun. Children will also love the telescope for star-gazing!
If travelling with babies/toddlers, the thoughtful owners are able to provide stairgates, a cot with mattress and bumper, a highchair, bath, potty, changing mat, bottle sterilizer, baby-safe cutlery/crockery and a selection of toys. Please request at the time of booking.
The local area is fantastic for families. Start off with walks through the woodland surrounding the home and look out for deer. More adventurous walkers can follow the discovery trail at Lac Bleu de Guizengeard, not far from the Safari Parc de Haute Saintonge (17km).
There’s a charming little farm, Parc Animalier de l'Élévage du Ferron, around a 10-minute drive away with various animals, picnic tables and a play area. A little further afield, discover seasonal tree-top trails at Accrobranche Double Accro (38km) with activities suitable for children aged 3+.
Come across more outdoor adventures in the summer months at Base de Pleine Nature de Poltrot (33km) near the Dronne River – this centre offers family walks through the woodland, picnic areas with barbecues, boules pitches, canoeing, tree-top adventures, fishing and a maze, all set in beautiful nature. Visit other idyllic spots along the Dronne for riverside picnics and find canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding as well as a sandy beach and playground on the edge of the pretty village of Aubeterre-sur-Dronne (30km).
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Baby bath
- Changing mat
- Potty
- Stair gates
- Bottle steriliser
- Plastic crockery
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Children's videos/DVDs
- Badminton
- Boules/Petanque
- Board games
- Pool inflatables
- Swings
- Slide
- Climbing frame
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- Outdoor Games
- DVD
Services Available
- Catering Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Pre-Stocked Fridge Available
- Wine-Tasting Available
- Catering Available
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Pre-arrival shopping
- Catering (the owners work with a famous chef who produces Indian, European and North African cuisine)
- Wine and cognac-tasting
- Local activities (help with arrangement)
- Restaurant reservations
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
| Security deposit | €1000 paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €1000 paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes (via reversible air-conditioning). |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes, a standard changeover clean is included. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax is included. |
| Changeover day | Saturday. All other changeover days on request. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations days on request. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Pets welcome? | Not allowed. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately June to end-September. The owners will clean the pool and terraces daily between 8.00 a.m. and 10.00 a.m. The pool should not be used after 11.00 p.m. Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming. |
| Pool heating charge? | Included. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Special celebrations/events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. Weddings and stag/hen parties are not allowed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | A cot with mattress and bumper, high-chair, bath, potty, feeding bottles and sterilizer, stairgate, changing mat and baby-safe crockery/cutlery are all available on request. |
| Other Ts and Cs | The discreet but helpful owners are available in the building next door if you require any assistance. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 8 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Aug 31st 2024 - Sep 1st 2024 | £4,138 |
| Sep 1st 2024 - Jun 30th 2025 | £2,916 |
| Jun 30th 2025 - Aug 31st 2025 | £4,138 |
| Aug 31st 2025 - Mar 4th 2026 | £2,916 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
How long have you owned the property?
For 2.5 years now, the first 1.5 years just as a holiday home and now we are permanent residents in France.
What was it abou...
Owner Profile
How long have you owned the property?
For 2.5 years now, the first 1.5 years just as a holiday home and now we are permanent residents in France.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The building itself is quite iconic and sits in the middle of a really beautiful agricultural area. It is very peaceful here which is quite a change from where we are from in UK and the pace of life is so laid back and relaxed that it’s hard not to be that way yourself – again a huge change for us. The building has lots of character having been a working farm and cognac distillery in the past and there are clues to its former use everywhere you look.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
During WW2, the building was used to hide Jewish workers in the hay lofts and wine vats as the region was occupied Nazi territory at the time. The Nazi’s used to emerge from the forest at the back of the property and terrorise the inhabitants of the local village and the estate but not one Jewish worker was taken so it’s nice to know that the place helped to save lives.
Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
No
For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really…
Must do?
Bring plenty of sun tan lotion and reading materials, you may just want to lay by the pool and enjoy the serenity of the house and take advantage of the amenities provided.
There is a fantastic ziplining experience in Nabinaud and also and a great kayaking and canoeing club on the banks of the river Dronne in Aubeterre.
A day out in Angouleme is also highly recommended with some great local sights and fantastic array of restaurants and shops.
A day out at the water adventure park in St Xyrieix – huge outdoor on lake inflatable obstacle course and beach, brilliant day out with the family.
A half day guided cognac distilling tour is a fantastic way to spend a few hours.
Experience an in-house wine, pineau de charentes and cognac tasting evening in the gite.
Experience the best in Indian, North African and European cuisine by having internationally renown (and TV celebrity chef) extraordinaire Reza Mahammad cater in house (according to your tastes).
Must eat?
Graines et Garenne in Chateauneuf is a must for near Michelin star quality food at a fraction of the price. La Cloche in Bors de Montmoreau for great burgers and homemade cask ales with an amazing view over rolling countryside. Le Poirier in Bardenac for those who wish to sample a truly French brasserie where there is no choice but they feed you and feed you for hours for very little money in a typically French village nearby. Also a little more local, La Boule D’Or in Barbezieux offers a really fabulous menu and a brilliant wine list – the staff are amazing and have a lot of experience – you won’t be disappointed.
Must see?
Aubeterre sur Dronne; Cognac; Chateauneuf; Barbezieux and surrounding vineyards.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
