Les Chouettes Holiday Cottages are situated in France’s hidden jewel, the department of the Charente. Until relatively recently undiscovered by tourists, it boasts stunning, lush rolling countryside dotted with lakes, rivers and forests and some of the hottest summers in France. Steeped in history from Richard the Lion Heart to the Resistance of the Second World War it offers a wealth of historical attractions and a diverse range of outdoor leisure activities.
Located in South West France and lying north of the more commonly known Dordogne, the City of Angouleme is 30 mins to the west, Limoges with its airport one hour to the east, Bordeaux less than two hours south west and the dramatic Atlantic coast a similar time to the west.
The nearest town is Montemboeuf – translated as Beef Mountain- which is aptly named for the agricultural economy in the surrounding area. Red Limousine cattle are numerous in the fields surrounding the cottages and their delicious veal and beef can also be sampled in the local restaurants.
Whether relaxing in total peace and tranquillity, exploring local sites or experiencing local culture, Les Chouettes Holiday Cottages and the surrounding area really do provide something for everyone.
Eating and Drinking
Restaurants – La Bellone, St Adjutory; Sourire, Chasseneuil; Chez Steph, La Rochefoucauld; La Roc du Boeuf, Rochechouart; Le Vieux Moulin, Chabanais; L’Auberge du Prestbyterre; Moulin de la Tardoire, Montbron; La Grange aux Oeils, Neuil; Chez Paul, Angouleme.
Cave de St Sornin – locally produced Charentaise wine
Pineau de Charente tasting
Local Producers’ Market
Farm Visits
Culture and History
Chateaux at La Rochefoucauld, Rochechouart, Etagnac and Peyras
Resistance Memorial and Museum Chasseneuil, Remembrance Centre at Oradour- sur-Glane
Gallo-Roman Site at Chassenon and other archaeological sites,
Underground Church at Aubeterre and numerous other churches
Music festivals at Cognac, Confolens and Montemboeuf
Ramparts vintage car exhibition racing in Angouleme
Strip Cartoon Festival
Sport and Leisure
Marked walks and cycle paths also ideal for running and triathlon training
Rivers and lakes many with artificial beaches, offering variety of water sports
Adventure Park
Golf at La Perez and St Junien
Karting at La Rochefoucauld and Angouleme
Horsing Riding at numerous riding centres
Fishing on site or in local lakes and rivers
Must Do and See
Visit the magnificent chateau at La Rochefoucauld and dress up in mediaeval costume
Make a day trip to Cognac and a tour around one of the many distilleries
Explore the large once weekly market at Pieguet selling local products and crafts
Swing through the trees and navigate over 70 obstacles at the Massignac Adventure park
Ride the Velo Rail from Chasseneuil to Manon or Confolens and enjoy a picnic on route
Share in some tragic Second World War history at the preserved village of Oradour sur Glane
Enjoy a special dinner at Chez Steph savouring local produce cooked on an open wood fire in the shadow of the La Rochefoucauld Chateau