The in-ground pool is 10m long by 5m wide and is 1.6m deep in the middle. Solar heating provides comfortable swimming even early and late in the season and under-water lighting allows night-time swimming if you wish.

The surrounding terrace provides ample space for sun beds, patio tables etc. The whole area is secluded and sheltered thus providing the ideal spot for soaking up the Charente sunshine

Chez Baiges was originally part of a large farm and wine growing estate. Indeed the wine press and fermentation vats are still in place. The buildings are arranged around a large and secluded courtyard and include 3 houses, several barns and the winery (or "chai").

The 18th century buildings are constructed of the local honey coloured limestone. Originally, many of the 2 foot thick walls were covered with lime render but some have now been uncovered to reveal the true beauty of the stone. Vines and roses clothe many of the walls.

The large courtyard is a real sun trap and is the ideal spot for a relaxing game of boules, dining outside or simply soaking up the sun.

Chez Baiges has over 2 acres of grounds. A gateway from the courtyard leads to the communal gardens and swimming pool area. For a quieter spot, the orchard provides some welcome shade from the mid-day sun.

Cycle Hire

We have two mountain bikes for hire by the half day. The surrounding area is ideal for cycling either on the quiet roads or on the miles of farm and forest trails.

Dining

4 course evening meals with wine are available if requested in advance. Soft drinks. ice-creams and other snacks are available throughout the day.

Laundry

The laundry has a washing machine available at no extra charge.

We have wi-fi access and also a computer available for guests who have not brought their own laptop.

Comments From Our Guest Book

Karen, Cameron, Alana, Arron & Clarissa: "We all loved the pool"

John & Maria: "What a lovely pool"

Kath & Alan: "Food was excellent. Would recommend to anyone"

Shopping

We usually have free range eggs, home made jams and home grown fruit and vegetables for sale according to the season.

The nearest village is about 3 km (less if you walk or cycle down the country lanes) and can provide for most needs. There are two bakers, a bar, a butcher, post office, tobacconist, pharmacy, greengrocers and hairdresser.

The nearest banks are in the towns of Mansle (10 minute drive), La Rochefoucauld and Chasseneuil (20 minutes). These have supermarkets, a larger selection of shops and also have markets once or twice a week. Angouleme (30 minutes) has department stores and everything else you would expect to find in a city.