Within easy reach of Le Gentil is Brossac village, which has a small supermarket, Post Office, bank, bakers, pharmacy, bistro and butcher, with several restaurants nearby.  The rural lanes are ideal for cycling and walking, and there are some lovely routes available. You will be rewarded with gentle countryside views, pine forest, quaint villages and in the summer maybe, a spectacular show of sunflowers and row upon row of vines. Canoe hire, fishing, riding and golf are available within half an hour’s drive

The nearest small town is Chalais, 15 minutes away, with the imposing Château Talleyrand and its 16th century drawbridge, one of the few still in operation in France.  Informative guided tours are available. A traditional Monday market is held in Chalais town, and there’s a supermarket.

At around 25 minutes’ drive is the historical village of Aubeterre, famous for having the largest monolithic church in Europe, carved and built into the rock. With picturesque streets and a village square brimming with restaurants, bars, antique and craft shops, and the Dronne river for kayaking, it is a worthwhile place to explore. It has a fishing area and bathing at the lake beach it is designated as one of the most beautiful villages in France.

 For more inspiration read our article “Postcard from Aubeterre”

Nature lovers will enjoy a visit to the striking blue lakes of Guizengeard, perfect for walking, observing wildlife and identifying birds, or a peaceful picnic. A restored quarry and now a Nature Reserve where you can walk around the stunning blue lakes. Information is found along the route about the site and its geological heritage, flora and fauna. 5 minutes by car.

Montguyon and Haute Saintonge villages

Around 20 minutes drive, this village offers restaurants, bars, shops, supermarket, baker and butcher and bank. On the outskirts there is Beauvallon, a recreational lake with swimming, boating and a café/bar. It is situated in a peaceful spot and is ideal for a gentle stroll around, under the shade of the pine trees. A little further away you will find walking trails right in the heart of the forest and the home to the Maison de la Forét, a historic heritage site. The Dolmen de la Pierre-Folle is a rare pre-historic burial chamber.

Martron

A short distance from Martron is the Circuit de Haute Saintonge racetrack for motorbikes, Formula 3 and karting, with a restaurant.

Châteaux

Château de Chalais

With a 15thC drawbridge and now owned by a famous French comedian.

Château de la Mercerie

‘Little Versailles of Charentes’

Château de Villebois-Lavalette

Overlooking the village (a Petite Cité de Caractère), the castle is over a thousand years old.

Château de Barbezieux

A medieval fortress from the 11th and 12th centuries.

Vineyard tours and tasting

Domaine Conte et Filles Chillac

Domaine Le Petit Cousinaud Guizengeard