Manoir Colombard
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Overview
This historic manoir was built for the owner of one of the Cognac producing estates in the 19th century. It’s now an impressive holiday home with elegant interiors, 3.5 hectares of parkland, a private swimming pool and glorious views over the garden towards Cognac.
As you walk through the grand entrance hall you will note the sense of space across this 600m2 home with high ceilings in many of the rooms. Over the past two years Manoir Colombard has undergone an extensive renovation to bring the house back to its former glory whilst adding contemporary features for modern day living. The grand salon is especially impressive with beautiful windows overlooking the ancient trees and parkland with plenty of morning light, the dining room exudes an air of simple elegance whilst the petit salon facing the courtyard is another relaxing spot.
Across the two main floors, each of the six pretty bedrooms has its own bath or shower room and they all feature double beds, three of which are king-size and two super king-size. With courtyard or garden views, bedrooms are kept cool in the summer thanks to double glazing and traditional shutters. Meanwhile, electric blinds shade the ground floor yet still allow you to appreciate the picturesque views.
Families will love the table football, pool table, boules and table tennis and the vast garden with century-old trees is magnificent. In the summer months spend hours by the salt-water swimming pool with its summer kitchen and pick figs from the poolside trees. Elsewhere, admire the grape vines, many roses and corridor of pine trees as you explore the parkland which is enclosed by a 2m high wall.
All this space, backed by rural landscapes and vineyards, yet you are right on the edge of Cognac! The heart of the historic town can be reached in 4.5km for a range of excellent restaurants (two with Michelin stars), the daily covered market, a warren of charming lanes and of course tastings and guided tours of the famous distilleries. In the summer enjoy cruises along the Charente River to Jarnac and look out for water-based activities including canoeing and kayaking. Even closer to Manoir Colombard is a large supermarket and a recommended boulangerie in the outskirts of the town.
Other places to visit include the historic town of Saintes with the incredible Basilique Saint Eutrope, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the handsome city of Angoulême, known for its famous vintage car race and the comic art museum, La Musée de la Bande Dessinée. Spend the day by the seaside in Royan, around an hour away, or you could even venture to the vineyards of Bordeaux for yet more gastronomic and wine-tasting experiences.
What you should know…
- If travelling with young children, it’s worth knowing there is a pond near the entrance gate and please also note that some of the barn space is not suitable for children (housing original cognac-making equipment etc).
- Please be aware that guests are required to bring their own linen for the cot.
- Being on the edge of Cognac, yet backed by rural landscapes and vineyards, you may occasionally hear the local 'N' road if the wind travels in a certain direction.
This home is a part of our Great Value and Heritage Collection!
This is a historic home, and as such:
- It has probably been standing for over 100 years, which means it's full of historic value and charm but it may also have one or two quirks!
- Some of the decor and furnishings may not be brand new, but that should not detract from your holiday experience in this unique setting that allows you to take a step back in time!
Property Features
Manoir Interiors (600m2)
Ground Floor
- Entrance hall
- Grand salon with doors leading to garden terrace
- Petit salon
- Dining room
- Kitchen, well-equipped and utility room
- Study/playroom (next to kitchen) with desk and range of children's toys
- Cloakroom and WC
- Bedroom with four poster super king-size bed, separate bathroom with shower and WC
Upstairs
- Master bedroom with super king-size bed and en suite bathroom with bath, shower and separate WC
- Bedroom with king-size bed and en suite shower room
- Bedroom with king-size bed and en suite bathroom with bath, shower and WC
- Bedroom with king-size bed and en suite shower room
- Attic bedroom (via spiral staircase) with double bed, en suite shower room and separate WC
- Drying room with washing machine
- WC
Lower Floor (accessed from outside)
- Games cellar with table football and pool table
Outside Grounds
- Salt-water swimming pool (16x6m, depth: 1-1.5m) with electric safety cover. Open approximately end-May to end-September
- Outside shower
- Poolside area with kitchen and WC
- Patio with table and chairs for al-fresco dining and barbecue
- Various other barns/outbuildings (with some original equipment, some used for storage)
- Pond (near entrance gate)
- Garden with roses, vines, fig trees and mature trees
- Vast grounds (3.5 hectares) surrounded by 2m wall
- Electric entrance gate
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Smart TV with Netflix
- Table tennis
- Pool table
- Table tennis
- Boules
Location
About the surrounding area of Manoir ColombardHistorically the home for an owner of a Cognac-producing estate, Manoir Colombard is set in 3.5 hectares of glorious grounds with views over the garden and beyond towards Cognac in the Charente department of south-western France.
Despite the rural setting of vines and farmland behind the Manoir, you are on the edge of Cognac and the heart of this historic town can be reached in around 4.5km. Even closer there is a large supermarket just 2km away and a well-regarded boulangerie within a 5-minute drive in the outskirts of the town. Restaurants can be found in and around Cognac – it has gained a fine reputation for its gastronomy in recent years, so much so that the town hosted the Michelin Star Awards ceremony in 2022, the first time outside of Paris.
As well as many excellent restaurants (two with Michelin stars), Cognac is of course known for its distilleries - guided tours and tastings can be arranged. The historic quarter itself is beautiful with its narrow lanes, 16th and 17th century houses, atmospheric café terraces, pretty shops and daily covered market. Throughout the year look out for events and festivities taking place in the town including the Cognac Blues Passion festival and the Fête du Cognac, both in July.
Take picturesque stroll along the Charente River where boat trips sail to nearby Jarnac (known for its brandy production) and discover seasonal canoeing and kayaking opportunities. In the summer you will also find paddle-boarding and electric boats along the river whilst outdoor adventurists will appreciate horse-riding within a short drive, not to mention the wonderful walks and cycling across the Charente landscapes and beyond. For golf-lovers, Golf du Cognac is 12km by car.
You have easy access to other fantastic places to visit across this region – the main ‘N’ road that connects Cognac to Saintes can be reached within a 850m drive (being on the edge of Cognac, you may occasionally hear traffic from this road when the wind is blowing in a certain direction). Saintes (25km) is one of the region’s most important towns with a rich heritage dating back to Roman times and incredible architecture. It’s old quarter is a joy to explore – come across old white stone houses, the historic amphitheatre and the beautiful Cathedral of Saint-Pierre. Furthermore, the 12th century Basilique Saint Eutrope de Saintes is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The vineyards of Bordeaux (121km) or Saint-Émilion (139km) can be reached in just over an hour and a half, both stunning days out, whilst the handsome city of Angoulême (48km) is even closer, known for its vintage car race in September and a must for comic art enthusiasts who can visit the Musée de la Bande Dessinée.
If you feel like a day by the sea then Royan (66km) is a good choice, reached in around an hour. As well as its long sandy beach and summer watersports, stroll along the beachside promenade, visit the architect-designed covered market and dine out in one of Royan’s bustling cafes and restaurants.
You could even venture to the gorgeous island, Île de Ré (113km), reached via a 2km long bridge from La Rochelle, or spend the time visiting the salt marshes and oyster farms of the Seudre River en route to Île d'Oléron (90km) for yet more beaches and nature reserves.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Aéroport La Rochelle
(107km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Bordeaux Airport
(126km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 3 |
Aéroport de Poitiers-Biard
(149km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Cognac/Saintes/Angoulême
(4.5km/24km/48km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
Cognac
(Around 4.5km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
In and around Cognac
(3-5km) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
Bakery
(2.4km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Intermarché SUPER
(2km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf du Cognac
(12km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
Royan
(66km) |
||
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 AgesBeyond the 3.5 hectares of wonderful grounds, there are so many activities for families to enjoy together across the Charente region and beyond.
Find river cruises along the Charente departing from Cognac or Saintes and other water-based activities nearby such as canoeing, kayaking, paddle-boarding and pedal boats. In the summer months, discover Cognac’s Base Plein Air André Mermet with its playground, picnic areas, volleyball, mini-golf, tennis and seasonal outdoor swimming pool (depending on age).
Abbaye de Fontdouce is a popular attraction for families, an adventure park which features tree-top trails (aged 3+) and other activities whilst young historians may enjoy a visit to the Paléosite museum at a Neanderthal site. A little further afield, older children can have a go at the Escape Game at Château d'Usson (age 6+ and adults must supervise).
There are horse and donkey rides within a short drive as well as many beautiful walks and cycle rides through the Charente landscapes. For a change of scene, spend the day by the beach at the charming seaside resort of Royan, around an hour away, or venture further towards the stunning beaches and nature reserves of Île d'Oléron or Île de Ré.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- 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
- Boules/Petanque
- Child-Safe Pool
- Games Room
- Indoor Games
- Outdoor Games
- Table Tennis
- Table Football
- Pool/Snooker
- Fenced Grounds
Extras
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
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 | 5.30 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 | 5.30 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, changed once for stays over 7 nights. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes and mid-stay cleaning for stays of more than 7 nights also 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. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately end-May to end-September. 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. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Changeover day | Saturday. All other changeover days on request. |
| Pets welcome? | Not allowed. |
| Smoking Allowed? | No. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | One cot and one high chair are available on request, free of charge. Please be aware that guests are required to bring their own linen for the cot. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 12 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Nov 26th 2024 - May 31st 2025 | £3,440 |
| May 31st 2025 - Jun 30th 2025 | £4,838 |
| Jun 30th 2025 - Aug 31st 2025 | £5,913 |
| Aug 31st 2025 - Sep 30th 2025 | £4,838 |
| Sep 30th 2025 - May 30th 2026 | £3,440 |
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.
Reviews
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The most fantastic week
We honestly had the most fantastic week staying at Manoir Colombard and did not want to leave!! As a family trip with 4 children under 9 years old the house could not have been more suited to a large group with so much space to roam inside and out. The pool was perfect, always a lovely temperature and safe for everyone with the easy-to-use cover, we loved sharing family meals out on the beautiful terrace with fantastic views over the gardens. The pictures do not do the house justice, the size of the rooms and grounds were astounding, we really hope to return as this was such a memorable holiday for us all!
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It’s a spectacular house
It’s a spectacular house with beautiful grounds.
A haven for relaxation.
The local town of Cognac is lovely, and a trip on the river is highly recommended. -
A truly magnificent place
Manoir Colombard is a truly magnificent place to stay. The house is beyond amazing and we spent a very special extended family week together. It is a magical place to stay – beautiful grounds, pool and contemporary house that still managed to keep a ‘French feel’ that soon felt like home! We LOVED it.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
