Maison Zenith
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Overview
If you are looking for a gorgeous house, garden and heated swimming pool which have been brilliantly designed for sociable living with family or friends, Maison Zenith is a wonderful holiday home in the Vendée department, around an hour from Nantes and the Loire River.
This spacious family home has been recently renovated to a high standard retaining much of its character with exposed stone walls and wood beams alongside chic furnishings and touches of contemporary style. There are two welcoming lounges, one either side of the entrance hallway, whilst the heart of the home is the brilliantly equipped kitchen-diner with sliding windows opening out to the terrace and views all the way to the end of the vast garden.
Scattered across the two floors, find five bedrooms with king-size double beds (two of which can be converted into twins), alongside four bathrooms (three of them en suite or private) with bath and/or walk-in showers, some of which with bold tiling to add to the house’s modern style.
Bordering a river’s edge, the outdoor space is simply fantastic with pretty patios for a quiet coffee, larger terraces for al-fresco dining and sun-bathing alongside a pergola close to the river for picturesque views of the flora and fauna around you. The heated swimming pool is glorious for warm summer days and there is ample room across the terraced and sloping gardens for relaxing in the sun or playing with family and friends.
Cycle to the local village for your morning croissants and fresh bread or drive a little further to Les Herbiers for restaurants, shops, a twice-weekly food market as well as old windmills and lovely walks through the park. Embrace the natural surroundings of La Cité des Oiseaux, a paradise for bird-watchers, potter around the historic towns of Cholet or La Roche-sur-Yon and spend the day at one of Europe’s most famous theme parks, Puy du Fou.
The atmospheric city of Nantes awaits for a superb day out or venture towards Angers and Saumur by the banks of the Loire River. You can also reach the coast from here – in just over an hour you could be exploring the sweeping beaches of the Atlantic around the seaside resorts of Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie and La Tranche-sur-Mer.
What you should know…
- The long garden slopes all the way down to the river’s edge – even through there is a high natural border, children should be supervised outside.
- Guests will need to be able to manage the steps across the house and grounds and the various terraced levels across the beautiful, vast garden.
Property Features
Maison Interiors
Main Floor (with steps leading to bedrooms/kitchen)
- Entrance hall
- Two lounges
- Open-plan kitchen-diner with doors opening out to terrace
- Utility room
- Bedroom 1 with king-size bed, space for a cot, doors leading to garden and en suite bathroom with bath and shower
- Bedroom 2 with king-size bed and private shower room (next door)
Upstairs
- Bedroom 3 with king-size bed (can be split to twin)
- Bedroom 4 with king-size bed (can be split to twin)
- Bathroom with bath and shower
- Bedroom 5 with king-size bed and en suite shower room
Outside Grounds
- Heated swimming pool (9x4m, depth: 1.06-2m) with electric safety cover. Open mid-May to end-September
- Poolside terrace with sun loungers
- Al-fresco dining area
- Various other terraces for al-fresco dining/relaxation
- Landscaped garden which slopes down to the riverside
- Terraced levels and steps
- Croquet and badminton
- Ample parking
- Car port with electric car charging socket
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Heating
- Smart TV with Netflix
- Board games
- Outdoor games
Location
About the surrounding area of Maison ZenithSuch a beautiful setting surrounded by glorious gardens that slope down to a river, Maison Zenith is set in a small hamlet in the Vendée department around an hour south-east of Nantes and the Loire River. The famous theme park, Puy du Fou, is only a 15-minute drive away.
The nearest boulangerie is in the local village just over 5km (a short drive or cycle ride) whilst further amenities can be found in Les Herbiers (12km), home to several restaurants including options for fine-dining and a twice-weekly indoor food market.
With fantastic walking and hiking opportunities as well as bird-watching, this is a fantastic region for nature lovers – the vast La Cité des Oiseaux (12km) is not to be missed. You can also admire the old windmills north of Les Herbiers at Moulin Mont des Alouettes and look out for events taking place at the large medieval castle, Château Tiffauges.
The attractive town of Cholet (32km) is known for its annual festivities, Museum of Art and History and textile heritage whilst historic La Roche-sur-Yon (40km) is home to the Haras de la Vendée equestrian centre. One of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’, Vouvant (50km), with its charming riverside setting, is located in the Vendée.
Nantes (58km) is a wonderful day out, a bustling city by the banks of the Loire River. Head to the city’s covered food market which is open six mornings a week, visit the Musée d'arts and enjoy a glass of muscadet or a traditional crepe in an atmospheric city café. Explore by the banks of the river and take a walk through the tropical Jardin Extraordinaire.
The riverside city of Angers (99km) is another highlight of this part of France, as is Saumur (108km), with its sparkling white wine and Cadre Noir equestrian school. Rochemenier Village Troglodytique (93km) and Fontevraud-l'Abbaye (118km) could also be reached for an amazing day out.
In the other direction, just over an hour away, is the Vendée coastline and traditional seaside towns including Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie (75km) and La Tranche-sur-Mer (81km) alongside a sweeping coastline of Atlantic beaches, surfing and other watersport opportunities.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Nantes Atlantique Airport
(57km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Aéroport La Rochelle
(111km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Gare de Clisson/Nantes TGV
(24km/60km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Small local village
(5.5km) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
Boulangerie in local village
(5.5km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Les Herbiers
(12km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Hyper U and drive
(11km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Le Golf Des Alouettes
(12km) |
||
| Nearest City |
Nantes
(58km) |
||
Region
From the Loire estuary to cosmopolitan La Rochelle and historic Saintes, this part of the Atlantic coast and its surroundings attract visitors who come for the region’s superb beaches, charming market towns, delicious oysters and rich history.
Starting just south of the fine city of Nantes, the Marais wetlands are a paradise for keen bird watchers and the perfect place for peaceful nature walks, cycle rides and canoeing through the marshes. Then there’s the blue-flag beaches, seaside resorts and fishing villages of the Côte de Jade alongside walking paths, cycling trails and horse-riding opportunities. The sunsets along this part of the coastline are especially idyllic.
The Atlantic island of Noirmoutier-en-l'Île is loved for its vast beaches, sand dunes and watersports. Admire its incredible landscapes, dig for shellfish, learn about the history of the island’s salt production and cycle to your hearts content passing historic sites, forests, salt marshes and coast – stop off for oysters en route for an authentic island experience.
Back to the mainland, discover characterful markets in the likes of Machecoul, Challans and La Roche-sur-Yon with Vendée specialities including beef, pork, Challans poultry, oysters, mussels, sardines, salt, white beans and a great range seasonal fruit and vegetables.
The Atlantic beaches of the Vendée coastline are wonderful, ideal for surfing and other water-based adventures, many backed by endless nature and woodland. La Tranche-sur-Mer has earned its ‘Famille Plus’ designation with its blue-flag beach, attractive promenade and family-friendly activities. For a change of scene, explore Le Marais Poitevin by boat and appreciate it’s magnificent natural surroundings -it's known as the ‘Green Venice’,
Puy du Fou is another highlight of this region, often considered one of the best theme parks in the world with its immersive adventures, period villages and spectacular shows.
Further south, passing La Rochelle and the wonderful islands of Île de Ré and Île d'Oléron, head inland in the Charente Maritime and spend time in the historic town of Saint-Jean-d'Angely with its Abbaye Royale, a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the Santiago de Compostela route.
Historians will also adore the 11th century Abbaye aux Dames in Saintes. The city’s old quarter is a joy to explore whilst the Roman amphitheatre and Basilique Saint Eutrope de Saintes, another UNESCO World Heritage site, are a must-see during your time. End your day with a cruise along the Charente, a picturesque river that continues east towards Cognac, Jarnac and the vibrant city of Angoulême.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesThe famous theme park, Puy du Fou, is located just over a 15-minute drive away. One of the most popular theme parks in Europe, visitors from across the world are attracted to the incredible shows and special effects telling historic tales in a spectacular fashion alongside period villages to explore and play areas for youngsters.
For a more peaceful trip out, Tépacap Vendée is also close by with its tree-top trails (aged 5+) including occasional evening sessions alongside tree-top nets suitable for younger guests. Set by the Étang de la Tricherie, other summer activities here include a lakeside beach, stand-up paddle boarding, a giant inflatable water course as well as paint-balling, archery and more.
Keen bird-watchers can spend time at La Cité des Oiseaux with its 56 hectares of natural land that attracts hundreds of birds – check to see what family-friendly activities may be taking place and visit the small Centre de Découverte. Nature lovers may also enjoy time at the Municipal Park Landreau with beautiful walks, picnic tables and a play area.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- <1hr to Airport
- Cycling
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- Outdoor Games
- Waterfront
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 | £850 charged to client's credit card as a pre-authorisation at least 2 weeks prior to 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 | £850 charged to client's credit card as a pre-authorisation at least 2 weeks prior to 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. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, changed once for stays of more than 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 mid-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. |
| Pool heating charge? | Included. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Changeover day | Saturday. All other changeover days on request. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Pets welcome? | Not allowed. |
| Smoking Allowed? | No. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 10 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Nov 29th 2024 - Jun 30th 2025 | £4,569 |
| Jun 30th 2025 - Aug 31st 2025 | £5,913 |
| Aug 31st 2025 - Jun 2nd 2026 | £4,569 |
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.
- When did you become the owner?
The house has been family-owned for over 30 years. Originally purchased by my parents in 1993, I took it over in 2020 and have spe...
Read moreOwner Profile
- When did you become the owner?
The house has been family-owned for over 30 years. Originally purchased by my parents in 1993, I took it over in 2020 and have spent over 2 years renovating the property and maintaining the surrounding land.
- What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The shuttered windows and aged stone façade to the front and sweeping views of the garden down to the river from the terraces.
- Are there any interesting stories in its history?
Following the overthrow of the monarchy during the French Revolution in 1789, the power and authority of the Catholic Church was severely reduced. The new republican government then required all areas of France to comply with new laws and to pay a range of new taxes.
Although the Vendée (then known as Bas-Poitou) was the last department of France to agree to these demands, it refused to accept the authority of the revolutionary government. It insisted on remaining loyal to both the king and church and reflected this allegiance by displaying intertwined hearts on its coat of arms.
This led to war in the Vendée as the government sought to overcome this insurgency from counter-revolutionaries in the region. The war raged from 1793 to 1796 as republican forces sought to erase the opposition in a series of violent battles and civil massacres, resulting in the death of several hundred thousand people.
Troops known as the “Colonnes Infernales” were instructed to destroy every village in the Vendée and eliminate all resistance. One of these villages was Paillers, which was completely razed to the ground except for the priest’s house which was retained by the military as its regional headquarters. This was the house we now call Maison Zenith.
Over the years the house again became a private dwelling and home to local families who farmed and worked in the locality. The original building still forms the main part of the house, which has progressively increased in size by absorbing several of its storerooms and outhouses.
Retained features include many of the original beams, the two main granite fireplaces and the early kitchen range which was fired by embers from the fire placed under the three cooking rings. The existing kitchen was originally a barn with a hay loft, with separate access from the house. This low height back door was used to separate cattle from horses when bringing them into their winter quarters as horses would not bow their heads to go through. Make sure you do if you are more than 1.5m tall!
One of the families that preceded the present owners had 14 children, all born in the original house. The entire family lived in the house and, as late as the 1950s, were still washing their clothes in the river and using water from the well. They all thrived and returned to celebrate their parents’ 60th wedding anniversary in the nearby town of Beaurepaire in an extended family of more than 100.
- For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really must do?
Visit Clisson which is half an hour’s drive from Maison Zentih. It was extensively rebuilt after the Vendée wars and is well-known for its mix of architectural styles, some of which resemble designs more usually found in the Italian region of Tuscany. Then from Clisson take the train to the vibrant city of Nantes.
Close to the Atlantic Ocean, covering about 11,500 ha, the vineyard of Nantes is home to Muscadet wine and is the largest wine-growing area in the Loire Valley. The cellars are small, family-run businesses. Easy access to the motorway and good road links enable you to easily get to the coast in an hour.
A region of marshes, canals and rivers together with low-lying land and woodlands best explored by boat. Also known as “Green Venice”, this is a nature reserve with a canopy of ash trees and poplars, giving a unique insight into the beautiful environment.
For golf lovers, Cholet has an 18-hole course 30 minutes from Maison Zenith. It has a driving range, 2 putting greens and a club house which is described as “magnificent”!
- What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
There are a great many things to do in the surrounding area, as above and all are accessible for a day’s outing. We recommend an early rise to make the most of the day to get to the beach or the Marais first, before the crowds and then leave early in time to enjoy a swim in the pool and an aperitif before dining al fresco on the abundant local produce!
Reviews
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We had a really lovely family holiday
The property is very well appointed inside with plenty of space and well equipped. The fridge freezer was huge and there were plenty of (matching) glasses and plates etc. inside and outside dining.
The pool is perfect for lots of fun afternoons and the property is set in beautiful gardens. Perfect for playing hide & seek.
The owner was quick to respond on WhatsApp to any questions we had. If we were coming to this area again we would definitely stay here. -
The perfect stay
The perfect stay! Beautiful gite and stunning gardens. Well stocked with everything a family needs. Our girls loved playing badminton, scrabble and using the inflatables in the pool. We had a wonderful meal at Aroma restaurant in Les Herbiers and really enjoyed a visit to Logis de Chabotterie (Chateau). We were sad to leave but hope to return.
P.S. Loved reading about the history of the gite. Fascinating - such a special place. -
The house and gardens are very beautiful
The house and gardens are very beautiful, everything is finished to a high standard. The house has history and has been sympathetically restored with modern convenience and eclectic style. The kitchen is large and every cooking aid is available, we enjoyed preparing great communal meals. Our three generation family all had space and privacy and the pool and gardens provided fun and tranquility when needed. There are lots of visits and activities locally or a short train ride away and the immediate area is good for walks and bike rides, perfect!
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We had a perfect holiday
We had a perfect holiday, thank you for sharing your gorgeous home with us. The online pictures don’t do the justice, we love the décor and overall facilities.
Your kitchen is perfect for family coops with every utensil to hand and the garden is stunning. Any gardener would appreciate what you have created here, it has the space for children run freely and for adults to roam as well.
The accommodation has been ideal for our three generations family – spacious, luxurious with private spaces, everything finished with attention to detail.
The area offers so many opportunities for great day out – Puy du Fou (Wow!), the beach, Clisson, Nantes and many more. We have visited vineyard, the Olympic football and a Michelin starred restaurant all within a short drive or train ride.
What a wonderful spot! Thank you.
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Fantastic villa
We all had a lovely holiday at this fantastic villa. For the four adults in our party, there was enough space for everyone to find their own corner as well as having lovely intimate family dinners and breakfasts most days.
The pool and all of the facilities were of high quality. The villa is itself very tastefully decorated and we had everything we could ask for in the week that we stayed.
The garden is a joy and we spent many hours at the bottom of the garden reading and sleeping and playing ball games !
It is in a lovely quiet location, but only 20 minutes away from Puy de Fou and around an hour away from some very clean, large sandy beaches. The local town of Les Herbiers has everything you need as well as some decent restaurants.
We had a brilliant week long stay here and we’d love to come back !
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Wonderful stay!
Wonderful stay!
Beautiful home plus grounds, tastefully renovated to accommodate modern
living ... so restful and tranquil, in part because of aesthetics and surroundings.
Home and nature wonderfully connected to encourage indoor and outdoors living.
Lovely local produce and villages. Definitely would recommend to others and hope to come back! -
It is a very calm and relaxing location, ideal if you live a busy life.
My wife and I stayed at Maison recently. It is an excellent location. Every area has been modernised to a very high standard. Everything works, and the style is really attractive. The garden is very special and has many interesting features even a meandering river at the lowest boundary. The pool is excellent with a simple and safe cover to comply with local safety regulations.
It is a very calm and relaxing location, ideal if you live a busy life. -
Wonderful stay
We have just returned from a wonderful stay at Maison Zenith. The house is beautifully decorated - cosy whilst also being extremely stylish - which makes spending time there a pleasure. The kitchen diner is particularly well suited to large gatherings of friends or family and a party of 10 were comfortably accommodated. The pool area is lovely and it would be lovely to come back in the summer. The garden is beautiful and extends down to a river which loops around the garden - providing plenty of seating areas for a glass of wine as the sun goes down! If you are looking for a luxurious tranquil house to make memories with family and friends then Maison Zenith hits the spot!
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Everything you could want
Stunning home, sympathetically renovated and beautifully furnished. Everything you could possibly want has been provided by the owners. We have been lucky enough to enjoy lovely sunny weather so could make full use of the wonderful terraces, garden and pool. The garden is a lovely oasis of calm.
Further afield we enjoyed a day in Nantes, going by train from Clisson (free station parking) and would recommend. For children, the Chateau de Tiffauges was a great experience and of course Puy du Fou is a must.
Thank you so much for a wonderful week at Maison Zenith. We would definitely return. -
Exceptional
Our recent stay at Maison Zenith was exceptional, sumptuous and memorable. The property is tastefully decorated with personal touches that give it that elegant and yet homely feel. We visited with friends to enjoy quality time together, but it is a perfect place for families too. A fabulous well-equipped kitchen, beautiful entertaining spaces with plenty of room for play for children of all ages who can enjoy the beautiful gardens and the pool! The bedrooms and bathroom facilities are outstanding. A truly wonderful stay and one we would highly recommend to anyone looking to escape into nature, as well as to visit the beautiful city of Nantes and nearby sandy beaches. Puy de Fou is nearby which is a must for all generations - I cannot recommend it enough!
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The best!
We had the best time at Maison Zenith! This spacious, comfortable and stylish house is discerningly decorated and furnished throughout and has a calm and relaxed aura about it.
It was a pleasure to cook and eat in the large, split-level kitchen-diner which is a wonderfully sociable space and extremely well-equipped.
The gorgeous terrace and pool areas are perfect for lounging and al fresco dining and the impressive and beautifully planted garden slopes down to the river which flows around its perimeter.
There are just so many lovely places to be at Maison Zenith and although there is a wealth of places to visit in the area, we enjoyed being there so much we found it very hard to leave!
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Idyllic country retreat
We had a wonderfully relaxing holiday at this idyllic country retreat. The house is tastefully decorated and spacious with a that kitchen has everything you need to self-cater, and everything worked!
The garden is enormous, loads of space for kids to run around, and the pool is the icing on the cake! Would definitely recommend.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
