Tiled floors, stone walls, exposed beams … Les Canardeaux combines rustic simplicity with modern conveniences, a perfect base for holidays.

The cottage is situated in the Berry, to the south of the Loire River.  It is a region of rolling farmland and extensive woodland with ancient towns and castles, excellent wines and first-rate restaurants.  It is also close to the village of Ambrault and within reach of three golf courses.

The weather changes here. You can experience hot, sunny days from early spring until late autumn.

The exposed stone walls of the house offer a cool respite in summer. The dining area is furnished with a long, solid oak table and six chairs, allowing ample space to enjoy a leisurely meal. Beside the table is the old bread oven, now converted to store our supply of wine, from which you are welcome to choose. We charge only cost price on all bottles. Alternatively, eat outside on the covered terrace that provides shade, especially at lunchtime, when you can relax at the long table and sip a glass local wine.

In winter, the wood burning fire is a grand focal point surrounded by the comfortable settee and armchairs in which you can relax, possibly whilst watching a DVD, playing one of the games provided, or settling down to a novel from our selection.

The cottage has two double and two single bedrooms, which are furnished with quality pine furniture.  One of the double bedrooms also features an antique pine farinier, which was used in the nineteenth century to store bread making ingredients.  It has a set of deep drawers that would have held provisions such as salt, flour and yeast.  The French windows overlook the terrace allowing you to enjoy the stunning sunrises and sunsets.  One of the other bedrooms has an antique wardrobe known as an ‘homme debout’, or standing man, because it would have served as a hiding place for Royalists during the French Revolution.  Cot/high chair provided on request.

The spacious garden is sheltered by evergreen trees and looks out over open farmland. There are several fruit trees – apples, plums, damsons and pears – as well as grape vines.  Sunbeds are provided by the pool as well as a barbeque, boules pitch and grassy area.

Simple, inexpensive meals are available in Ambrault and other nearby villages (short drive).

Changeover day is Saturday but mid-week arrivals are possible, except in July/August.  Short breaks available in low season.

Guests can arrive from 5pm, and must leave by 10am.

Nearest airport: Limoges.

Kitchen: Halogen/induction hob, electric oven, microwave, dishwasher, fridge/freezer, coffee maker, electric kettle, toaster, electric steamer, raclette grill, washing machine, tumble dryer.

Bathroom: Corner bath, shower, heated towel rail.

General: Wood burning fire supplemented by electric heating in every room.  Logs 35 euros.

Entertainment: TV with Dolby surround sound, DVD (also plays CDs), board games, a selection of adult and children’s books.