La Ferme des Châtaigniers Les Chaumes

La Ferme des Châtaigniers (Sweet chestnut tree farm) nestles in the pretty little hamlet of Les Chaumes (The thatches) in the heart of the gently undulating countryside of the Vienne. Our picturesque village of Vaux en Couhe boasts a lake, picnic area and straddling the river an 18th century communal washing area. The bar and restaurant serves excellent value for money food and is open for lunch throughout the year and for dinner during the holiday season.

The area is perfect for walkers and has many marked paths through the countryside, criss crossing villages and hamlets on the way. Cyclists are naturally well catered for and the topography also lends itself easily to relaxed cycle rides suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Within easy reach of both walkers and cyclists are the attractions of La Ferme aux Autruches(the Ostrich farm) and the World renowned Les Vallée des Singes (monkey park).

A short drive away from Vaux is the market town of Couhé where you can find a choice of restaurants and good selection of shops, including bakeries and supermarkets. The focal point of the town is Les Halles, a 16th century covered market where traditional fairs can be traced back to its conception. At the present time a large bustling market gathers once a month in the streets of the town.

The principal town of the area is Civray. Sited on the banks of the gorgeous river Charente its history dates back to Roman times and the Gothic church of St. Nicholas is testament to its importance at the time. A weekly market sells local produce and provides the traditional atmosphere associated with a typically French market. Restaurants and bars are plentiful and you can even dine alongside the Charente.

Just 30 minutes drive away the City of Poitiers blends old and new, in typically French fashion. The historic centre retains its charm whilst merging seamlessly with its modern cosmopolitan demands. Narrow streets are bustling with shoppers and restaurants/bars vie for customers in the shadows of some of the most historic buildings to be found. In complete contrast, just out of the centre you will find the second most popular theme park in France, Futuroscope.

Further afield the choices are endless. To the south on the river Charente the towns of Cognac and Jarnac are the focal points of the Cognac industry. To the east on the river Vienne you can explore the history and attractions from Chauvigny in the north to Confolon in South, easily in a day. To the west lay the coastal towns and seaside resorts famous for both their history and scenic beauty. The central attraction must be the fortified port of La Rochelle and its fabulous sea food restaurants. In addition the wonderful island, L’île de Ré is accessible by boat trip from La Rochelle or by car over the toll bridge and offers every kind of experience you can be looking for.

For further details on activities and things to do visit our Activities Page.

History in the Area

If it’s history you are looking for then look no further as this part of France has been fought over from Roman times onward. Within 25 miles of us you can discover many castles, chateaux and churches dating from the Roman-Gallo period, through the medieval times and the wars between the monarchies of France and England, to the present day.
A brief flavour of the regions historic roots is illustrated in the photographs on this page:

Château de la Roche – Magné (10 miles)

Built between the 15th and 18th century the chateau combines both Gothic and Renaissance architecture and also houses the Order of the Maltese Cross museum.

Château de Chambonneau – Gizay (19 miles)

Constructed in the 11th century this is the best preserved ancient fortresses of Philippe VI of Valois, where king Jean II the Good was transferred after his capture by The Black Prince of England in 1356.

Château d'Epanvilliers – Brux (4 miles)

Dating from the beginning of the 14th century it was likely rebuilt in the beginning of the 18th century at the end of the reign of Louis XIV.

Saint Nicolas’ Church – Civray (10 miles)

A treasure of Roman Art, the 12th century Civray Church has a rectangular-shaped façade bearing many wonderful sculptures including depictions of wise and foolish virgins and also the Assumption.

Château de Marconnay – Sanxay (25 miles)

This charming 15th century manor house, surrounded by a moat, is a perfect example of a small feudal fortress where Gothic and Renaissance features are displayed side by side.

Priory Church of Notre Dame and St.Cyprien – Chateau-Larcher (12 miles)

Notre Dame Church was once the château's chapel. Incorporated into the fortifications, it still has its 11th century walls.