The Tower House, a perfect hideaway just for two.

A traditionally renovated 18th Century stone house, with all the comforts of home, just for two. In the area: medieval architecture, rural walks, cycling (with a choice of routes close by). Ideal for exploring the local countryside and the Loire Valley (there's lots to do within an hour's drive), or for a cosy romantic break. Working away from home? The house has a laptop-friendly area and good WiFi throughout. I live next door, so I'm close by if you need me, but separate enough if you don't. The Tower House has been renovated using traditional methods, sympathetic to the age of the property. The walls were taken back to the original stone and either lime mortar pointed, leaving some of the stone exposed, or lime plastered and then lime washed. Where it has been feasible, we've kept original features, like the stone fireplaces and wooden flooring. Where this was not possible, we have either renovated with new materials or sourced reclaimed materials, like the quarry tiles on the kitchen floor. Our love for the original story of the house has meant that it has its quirks! There are a couple of low beams, the stairs are narrow and a little winding and the bedroom floor has a few lumps and bumps, but please don't think less of her for it, she's around 300 years old! When decorating the property, we wanted it to be a mix of styles the house has lived through - although perhaps a bit more luxurious than it would have originally been! The Kitchen is equipped for as much or as little cooking as you feel like doing. The Living Room is comfortable and cosy with a wood-burner, bluetooth speaker, and TV with UK and French TV receiver boxes. There is a desk and chair for those working away from home. In the private garden there is a table for alfresco dining and lounger chairs. The bedroom has double aspect windows, making it a lovely light room, with a sumptuous vintage double bed, perfect for those lazy mornings. Just off the bedroom is a second WC together with a dressing area and clothes hanging rails and enough space for shoes and storage of suitcases/bags etc. We hope you will enjoy staying in the Tower House as much as we've enjoyed renovating her. Guests will have the entire home to themselves, with a private entrance and private garden. Self check-in is available - please let me know if this is required and I will forward details to you prior to check-in. Alternatively, I can be there to meet guests when they arrive if this is preferable. I am contactable by telephone and live next door to the property should guests need assistance during their stay. I am learning to speak French and am always keen to practice what I've learned. Airvault is situated in the valley of the River Thouet which is a tributary of The Loire. Records date the establishment of the town of Airvault from the 10th Century, with parts of the fortified Chateau, the Church and the Abbey dating from this period, no doubt the fact that the town (and especially the Abbey) was a stop-off point for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostella in Spain, helped Airvault grow into a bustling market town. In front of the Church of Saint-Pierre there is the (now subterranean) public spring which was the only water source in the town until the 19th Century. And, in the narrow, ancient streets, you will still see some medieval, half-timbered buildings. It is because of this rich heritage that the town was awarded the title of “Petite Cité de Caractère” in 2011. Within one hour's drive from Airvault, you have a number of attractions: Saumur and Chinon in the Loire Valley; Puy de Fou theme park near Cholet; Futuroscope theme park near Poitiers; the Marais Poitevin near Niort. In addition, Airvault is situated on the National Cycle Route "La Velo Francette" and there are a number of local cycle routes around Airvault. We have two adult bicycles for the use of our guests, free of charge, should you wish to explore the surrounding area. There is a bus stop approximately 3 minutes walk from the property, with buses to and from Thouars and Parthenay (and from there onward to Niort). There is no private parking at the property, but there is free parking in the two nearby streets and at two car parks (each approximately 3 minutes walk away). The property is cleaned in accordance with the Airbnb cleaning protocol, as well as adhering to the local Tourism authority's advice. In addition, I have also comitted to leaving a minimum 24hr break between guests in order to provide extra assurance that your stay is as comfortable as possible. Cleaning materials (including alcohol disinfectant spray) are also provided for your cleaning needs during your stay. At each of our meetings together, please continue to adopt the recommended barrier measures: wear a mask, respect a distance of at least 1 meter, avoid any physical contact. It would be appreciated if you could provide your own masks/hand sanitiser, to ensure quality health continuity during your stay.