Helianthus

Helianthus is located in the beautiful Poitou-Charentes region of France. We are close to the market towns of Niort and La Rochelle. We are situated on the edge of the Marais-Poitevin, also known as the Green Venice. Helianthus, is part of a beautiful 250 year old Poitou-Charentes farmhouse, renovated to a very high standard. The farmhouse is located in the beautiful Marais Poitevin, with excellent walking and cycling routes and many canals and rivers. It is close to several villages and within easy reach of the towns of Niort, La Rochelle, and Poitiers with their numerous restaurants and shops. The gîte comfortably sleeps two people in a King-sized bed. There is also a bunk bed for 2 children. The well fitted kitchen is complete with a , gas cooker, fridge, microwave, electric kettle, and toaster. There is a dining table and comfortable seating, UK satellite TV and radio, plus local French channels. Free WiFi is available. There is a decking area with table and chairs and BBQ. All bed linen and bathroom towels are provided, but please bring your own pool and beach towels. A baby kit, consisting of a travel cot, high chair, and changing mat can be arranged in advance at no extra charge. All guests have access to our large heated swimming pool, which is open between May and September, and is located in our wall garden at the front of the house. There is a Sun Terrace by the pool with loungers and chairs. For guests with children there is a play area with swings, slide and see-saw. There is a secure parking area for guests. The Farm House is our home and we are always available for our guests. We look forward to dining with our guest if they wish to join us for an evening meal which is always freshly cooked. Helianthus is located within the Deux-Sevres, on the edge of the Marais Poitevin. The Marais is classified as a European nature reserve. With its abundance of flora and fauna and ten miles of navigable canals, it is a haven of greenery to be discovered by punt, on foot, or via its numerous cycle paths. We are only 15km from historic Niort which is a large beautiful Town with many shops and restaurants. La Rochelle is just 45 mins away and is well worth a visit with its old harbour protected by its famous twin towers, its cobbled streets, shops and restaurants. South of La Rochelle are wonderful beaches such as Chatelaillon Plage, which is also a centre for sailing. A visit to Cognac is a must, not just for the Brandy, but also for an even better reason - "Pineau Des Charentes". Produced from the local wine left to mature for two years in brandy barrels, it is the perfect Aperitif, which is why it is served regularly before dinner at La Maison des Tournesols. Just one-hour north is Futuroscope, a park where your imagination and senses will be stimulated by the cinema of tomorrow. The area is easy to reach by aeroplane, train, or car. To appreciate rural France a car is a necessity and can be hired from the airports or railway stations. We have a secure parking area within our grounds. Cycling is also an ideal way to see the area as it has many dedicated cycle routes which are well signposted.