Our newly refurbished gite has been named "La Coquille" to denote the scallop shell above the front door, said to announce the fact that is was a resting place for pilgrims en route to Santiago de Compostella.

La Coquille gite is situated in a peaceful location at the end of a small lane on the edge of the forest and if you are lucky you will be able to watch deer from the terrace early morning or at dusk.

Its location makes it safe for kids but as it is not part of a complex, it makes an excellent retreat for couples.

The popular village of Aubeterre Sur Dronne (voted as one of the prettiest villages in France) is just 3.5 miles away and it boasts its own river beach and golf club. There are lots of delicious restaurants in the centre to choose from, along with the charming small shops and a local market on a Sunday morning.

La Coquille is also ideally situated for you to explore the Charente, the Dordogne, the Atlantic coast and the vineyards of St Emillion and Bordeaux.

La coquille offers you a safe peaceful spot to recharge your batteries and explore the local area.

It is a restored cottage, thought to date back to the 1700's and still retains many original features.

There is a large sitting room with large limestone fireplace and original sink. It has comfy sofas and English satellite TV.

This leads to the fully fitted kitchen, which includes oven, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine and dishwasher. There is also dining space.

The door leads to the shady terrace, with space for al fresco dining.

From the sitting room, you pass through the formal dining room up the stairs and on the first floor there is a twin room, a family bathroom and an en-suite double bedroom.