la maison benaise

La Maison Benaise , our two-hundred-year-old farmhouse, has recently been completely renovated while retaining many authentic elements. The farm is located on the border of the Charente and the Dordogne. On the ground floor there is a cozy living area with a wood burning 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. Basic products (coffee, tea, sugar) as well as 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 smallest.

Sun terrace with barbecue, games for children and books are all provided. The garden (1000 m²) is completely fenced, just as handy with small children or the dog.
A little anecdote: 'benaise' is a typical expression of the Charente, which means 'a sense of well-being'!

We welcome guests who are mainly looking for peace and nature (Natura 2000 site). Here 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 sites and picturesque towns. We are 15 minutes' drive from Nontron (famous knife festival, where thousands of visitors from all over the world come to witness the famous tradition of knife-making), 30 minutes' drive from 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! The picturesque town of La Rochefaucould with its beautiful medieval castle is a 15-minute drive away. When visiting the castle, the children can dress up as a knight or princess.

This region of France is known for its delicious beef from Limousin cows, tasty local goat cheese, 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 on the local markets such as in Piegut (10 minutes), one of the oldest and largest 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 host a weekly night market, where you can buy local produce and eat it while enjoying live music.