La Maison Benaise, our two-hundred-year-old farmhouse, has recently been completely renovated while retaining many authentic elements. The farm is located right on the border of the Charente with the Dordogne. On the lower floor there is a cozy living area with a wood stove and a modern open kitchen. The kitchen is equipped with a gas hob, microwave, fridge with freezer, Senseo, kettle and all utensils for cooking. Both basic products (coffee, tea, sugar) and household products (dishwashing liquid, garbage bags) are provided. Linen is also included in the price (sheets, towels, tea towels). The bathroom has a large shower, a sink and a toilet.
On the first floor there is a bedroom with a double bed (King size) and two single beds. There is also a travel cot available for the little ones.
Sun terrace with barbecue, games for children and books are all provided. The garden (1,000 m²) is fully fenced, just as convenient with small children or the dog.
A little anecdote: "benaise" is a typical expression of the Charente, which means "a feeling of well-being"!
We welcome guests who are mainly looking for peace and nature (Natura 2000 site). You can take beautiful walks in the hilly landscape. A real paradise for nature lovers. Most walks start from the site itself. Hiking and topographic maps are available.
Sports enthusiasts can go mountain biking, kayaking, swimming in the river or in one of the local lakes (St Estèphe with beach). Or why not just relax with a good book and a nice drink on the sun terrace ... or enjoy a beautiful starry sky in the evening. For the children, our four Shetland ponies are ready for a cuddle and/or care.
There are also many historical sights and picturesque towns. We are a 15-minute drive from Nontron (famous knife festival, where thousands of visitors come from all over the world to see the famous tradition of knife making), a 30-minute drive away is the medieval town of Brantôme, little Venice of the south, classified as one of 'les plus beaux détours de France' with its beautiful architecture, gourmet restaurants and the Benedictine abbey. One of our favorites! A 15-minute drive away is the picturesque town of La Rochefaucould with its beautiful medieval castle. When visiting the castle, the children can dress up as knights or princesses.
This region of France is known for its delicious beef from the Limousin cows, tasty local goat cheeses, cognac, honey, duck (foie gras) and walnuts. The local apéritif drink 'Pineau' is made from cognac and grape lees. All these delicacies can be found in the local markets such as in Piegut (10 minutes), one of the oldest markets since 1642!
There is no shortage of nice restaurants in the area, where you can have lunch (three-course menu) for a small price. During the summer months, several towns in the area organize a weekly night market, where you can buy local products and eat them all of a sudden, while enjoying live music.
