Vieille Fermette is a traditional beamed C18th farmhouse set on the edge of the hamlet and retaining many original features. Set in own compact fenced garden with grassy areas, the house enjoys an elevated position with views over the Tardoire valley. Open and shaded areas for al fresco dining. Nearby separate ‘manoir’ where the discreet and helpful owners live. Fenced pool 8 x 4 x 1.2-1.8m depth (can be heated on request 70 euros per week payable locally) with security immersion alarm and sun terrace. Pool area is set back from the owners’ manoir and there is a screen of young trees although the area is slightly overlooked. Exclusive use of superb tennis court (racquets and balls not provided). BBQ.

Germanas is an idyllic rural hamlet, 6 min drive from local shop and bar-restaurant in Châtain-Besson. Charming market town of Montbron 10 min drive with Romanesque churches and châteaux, offering a wider choice of shops, supermarkets and restaurants. This area is an undiscovered part of France, with undulating countryside, close to the historic Richard the Lionheart circuit. Just 5 km to excellent 9-hole golf course. This beautiful region offers a range of outdoor activities including canoeing and riding at Montbron, walking, cycling and fishing. Well-located for visits to Angoulême, or picturesque Brantôme, both 45 min drive. Further afield are Limoges 67 km, famous for its porcelain, and Cognac with its distilleries 80 km. TGV to Angoulême. International airports: Limoges 65 km/Bergerac 125 km. Poitiers 115 km.

Spacious and comfortable sitting room with exposed stone walls and beams, open fireplace incorporating wood-burner, armchair and sofas, satellite TV/DVD, french doors lead to 3 steps up to garden and pool area. Light and airy kitchen with microwave, dishwasher and washing machine, adjacent dining area. Sep WC. 1st floor, Bed 1: king size. Bed 2: 2 singles. Bed 3: full-size bunk beds. Bed 4: double. 2 Bath/WC, both with showerheads. Cot and highchair on request.