Reviews of Previous Guests
Aug
2020
août
2020
"Vous êtes des hôtes adorables."
"Nous avons passé un séjour très agréable et reposant. Vous êtes des hôtes adorables et à nos petits soins. Merci."
Famille BLONDEL – août 2020
Jul
2020
"The boys loved every minute."
"We have had a wonderful and relaxing week. The gardens and the pool are fantastic. The weather has been great and the boys loved every minute. Thank you both – great hosts and such a lovely, well thought out gite."
Paul, Sara, Ben and Eric – July 2020
Aug
2019
"Everything was thought out superbly"
"This was our first time and we enjoyed it immensely!! We had a friendly welcome and a tour of the property. Such
a lovely garden. The pool was always clean and it was constatnly glistening!!
The gites had a rustic glow to them which made us feel very much at home. During our stay here we took part in
friendly ping pong matches!! The tomatoes were exquisite and the herbs were fresh!! Show More
The bakery had a great variety of little delights. Everything was thought out superbly. Hosts were
outstanding and made us feel very much at home! Also they tend to the miraculous garden and flowers. Thank
you very much!"
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Amelie (age 13), and The Barber Family – August 2019
Jul
2019
"Great Gite, Big Swimming Pool and lovely gardens."
"Thanks to you both for being excellent, friendly hosts. Full of fun, humour, and information
We have had a great week – fabulous weather, great gite, big swimming pool and lovely gardens.
The Creperie in the village was great for an evening meal. La Rochelle – great place, with handicrafts
market, lovely jewellery etc. Isle de Re well worth a visit.
Hope to see you both again next year."
Neil and Carole – July 2019
Aug
2019
"Sad to go once more."
"Our 7th time was a joy as usual. Such a pleasure to return and visit here – hosts always on
form and v. funny. Sad to go once more – but we'll be back I'm sure. It's always a
relaxing and fun holiday and we always return so chilled.
Weather's been a bit mixed this time, but visited Cognac this time – took the Hennessey tour
which was excellent.
Thanks again – we'll miss you."
Marc, Claire, and Callum – August 2019
Aug
2019
"A relaxing, fun and gormet week in France."
"We have had an excellent, relaxing week. The hotel and Creperie in the village are excellent and
a great way to spend an evening.
We have enjoyed spending time around the pool and exploring nearby. The Aquarium at La Rochelle was
informative and the children found the aquatic life fascinating. We visited Saumur (1hr drive away) for
a visit to the Ackerman wine caves.
This has been a relaxing, fun and gormet week in France"
The Faircloughs – August 2019
Sep
2019
"This place is so beautiful."
"Merci beaucoup thank you, thank you, thank you so much for a wonderful holiday. This place is so
beautiful and you are the best hosts ever!
Could not have hoped for such a wonderful holiday, rest and chill. We wish you health, wealth, and
happiness. Lots of love"
Loretta, Mark and Jayne – Sep 2019
Aug
2018
"Our holiday scored 10 out of 10."
"We have had a wonderful time, enjoyed the pool with the family. Loved the peace and quiet. Creperie was amazing.
Emily and I walked to the bakers every day, we saw a tiny frog one day!!
Thank you for the fresh tomatoes and courgettes – much appreciated. Thank you for all your help. Our holiday
scored 10 / 10
I have really enjoyed my stay the pool was super. I enjoyed all the outdoor activities especially table tennis. Thank
you very much. My stay was amazing
Emily age 9
I really enjoyed the pool, table tennis and badminton. Also, I have enjoyed the board games. Thank you for letting us
have a great stay.
Maisie, Porlock Somerset"
Jo and Jon, Maisie and Emily, Porlock, West Somerset
Aug
2018
"I absolutely loved it here! THANK YOU SO MUCH!"
"Thank you so much both – fab 2 weeks. Loved the gite and the pool.
Loved the added extras – large tea cups, big fridge and fresh tomatoes!! Very clean and tidy and we loved the
area – Puy du Fou was amazing! Thanks again
This was such an amazing place to stay!! They gave us fresh tomatoes (which were delicious).
There is a nice little town about a 5 minute walk away!! We were able to walk to the village Boulangerie every morning!!
There is an amazing swimming pool and provided table tennis and badminton! It was so nice to relax under the warm sun
every day by the pool!!
I absolutely loved it here! THANK YOU SO MUCH!
Amelie Strong (age 10) Arborfield, Reading
Eli, Liz, Harriet and Amelie, Aborfield
Jul
2018
"Becoming a bit of a home from home here!!"
"Our 6th stay here – and as normal the weather has been superb, the hosts their normal selves and the gite is
everything we need.
More exploring this year – including Bourgenay (Port) Les Sables – interesting but missed our opportunity to eat!!
La Roche is good for shopping
Pool as ever is spotless and we've had yet another fully relaxing holiday. Becoming a bit of a home from home here. The car is
becoming used to the drive too!!
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The hosts continue to be great and are always happy to help with whatever is needed – unless Steve's playing tennis,
when you don't get a look in!!
So enjoy your stay and use their knowledge
P.S Chinese Buffet in Fontenay is great value!!"
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Marc, Claire, and Callum
Aug
2018
"We were blown away by the friendliness and helpfulness."
"We booked really late so had no idea what to expect, but we were blown away by the friendliness and helpfulness of
you both. The local area is crammed full of sights, places, experiences, and culture, so we had a fabulous week!
Thanks again for a truly memorable stay."
Mark, Ali, Katie, Emma
Jul
2018
"Amazing hosts for whom nothing was too much trouble."
"Thank you both for a great holiday in this very comfortable gite. Amazing hosts for whom nothing was too much
trouble. Excellent pool, great access to the village – watch out for the kingfishers and frogs on the short cut.
Lots of places to visit in the area."
The Boyle fanily
Aug
2017
"It has been an absolute treat."
"Thank you both for your hospitality and for great advice
and tips throughout our stay. 'Le Vin de Merlot' has proved an excellent base from which
to explore the area. For us our highlights have been :-
1)
Futuroscope
2) Puy du Fou (get there by 9h15
ideally but so worth the effort)
3) The Venise Verte villages (we took a canoe trip from
St Hilaire La Palud – quieter and cheaper than many places like Maillezais/Coulon) and
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4)
Visiting picturesque Vouvant
It has been an absolute treat to have so much so near to hand. We have loved our many walks into the village
(5 mins) – to buy baguettes, to visit the excellent Creperie, or simply to enjoy the local wildlife –
spotting herons, kingfishes, a red squirrel. Just keep your eye open!!
We have had an excellent and refreshing holiday. Thank You"
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Shane, Juliet, and Lara – Camberley
Aug
2017
"We don't want to go home."
"We've had a super relaxing week here at Chez Gites. Highlights :-
1)
The Pool – thanks for keeping it so clean
2) The Creperie – 3
visits!!
3) The Abbey and 4) boat Hire at Le Mazeau
(with nice cafe)
We also visited La Rochelle and the Aquarium – good but so busy, especially after experiencing the peace and
quiet here. We don't want to go home, and would be keen to come back!! Best Wishes"
Paul, Lucinda, Mikey, Eliza – Oxfordshire
Aug
2017
"The children really enjoyed the pool and the table tennis!!"
"We have had a lovely time at Chez Gites – you have both been excellent hosts. The children really enjoyed the pool
and the table tennis!! We enjoyed days to :-
1)
La Tranche sur Mer – about 1 hour away – park by the beach, 30 centimes every quarter hour
and short walk if you're loaded with bags. Take a parasol/cover as there's no shade on the beach
2) Coulon – is a pretty village in the 'Green Venice/Venise Verte' with some
nice little shops
3) Niort – we found it easy to park at the Hotel de Ville car park (multi storey)
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4) Parcabou in Fontenay le Comte is open from 2:30pm, prices on their website – for
climbing in nets in the trees.
We enjoyed our meal in the Creperie in the village and recommend it.
Thanks again – we've had a thoroughly relaxing time"
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Sarah, Ken, Thomas, Charlotte
Aug
2016
"The scenery in the area is amazing, particularly at sunset."
"Many thanks for a fantastic fortnight in the gite. The pool is fantastic and the constant friendly atmosphere made
everything nicer. Everyone we met was lovely and we are bringing home some amazing photos. Thank you for the hospitality
as well.
The village creperie and restaurant (the hotel) are amazing – both had great service and magnificent food.
The scenery in the area is amazing, particularly at sunset, which creates unique landscape photos. Every last detail
has been considered and adjusted so that our stay was wonderful"
Damian, Theresa, and Maeve
Jul
2016
"Always a real tonic coming here."
"What a wonderful time, spent with friends yet again ! We've loved the laughs, chats and wine into the evening.
Always a real tonic coming here. Peaceful, idyllic, but check out the noisy frogs if you go for an evening walk
and not forgetting the glow worms !!
Plenty of walks into the village, for bread and supplies and just to enjoy. Wonderful pool and so relaxing. But best of all
have been the laughs and chats, much merriment. Thank you so much – you're a joy to know"
Richard, Heather, Will and Lydia
Aug
2016
"Swimming, canoeing, cycling – eating, drinking !!"
"Lovely week chez 'Merlot', wonderful mix of doing absolutely nothing and 'compulsory' exercise
– swimming, canoeing, cycling – eating, drinking !!
Thank you for your kind hospitality"
Gill, Peter, and Rory
Sep
2016
"Enjoyed the Abbey and can recommend the hotel in the village."
"Thank you for making our week here pleasant and relaxing. Enjoyed the Abbey and can recommend the hotel in the village for a meal. Many thanks again for the lift back from the Hotel during the thunderstorm"
Rodney and Gillian
Aug
2015
"The gite, gardens, and pool are of such a high standard."
"A huge thank you for our wonderful holiday. You are both fantastic hosts and a wealth of helpful info on the area,
weather, and great days out
The gite, gardens, and pool are of such a high standard – every detail taken care of. Thank you!
We all loved Puy du Fou. A theme Park with a difference – no rides but huge scale, spectacular performances with
stunt men and animals. Out of this world! We also really enjoyed walking to the village with its lovely Creperie and Hotel,
food was great in both
Coulon was very pretty – would love to go back and hire a boat. Cycling in Mervent Forest was also lovely.
Saw a kingfisher each time I crossed the river to the village. Beautiful"
The Paveys, Kent
Aug
2015
"Peace and relaxation have been priceless."
"What a fantastic time! Perfect hosts – thank you for all your advice and courgettes – not to mention the evening chats and laughter!! We didn't actually 'do' a lot but peace and relaxation have been priceless. The accommodation is absolutely wonderful and the pool has been exceptional. Weather has been incredible. Lovely walks to the village each day and went in the Abbey and Elienor of Aquitaine's house. The boulangerie and charcuterie are well worth visiting. The creperie was also a must. Went to Chateau Terre Neuve which was stunning. Can't wait to come back. Thanks"
Richard, Heather, Will, and Lydia, Derbyshire
Jul
2015
"This is definitely somewhere we would love to come back to."
"We have enjoyed a fabulous week at the gite. Jess and Jake have been in the pool every day. The creperie in the
village was delicious and we enjoyed the walk to the village by the river where we spotted kingfishers and frogs.
We have had some lovely days out to the Aquarium at La Rochelle, a walk through the forest and by the lake at Mervent,
a day at Puy du Fou, and a guided boat trip from St Sigimond.
Thank you for your kindness and hospitality, helpful suggestions and the courgettes!!
This is definitely somewhere we would love to come back to"
Tim, Trish, Jess, Jake, Kent
Jul
2015
"It's nice to find a pool with a real deep end."
"We have had a really great week at the gite. We've really enjoyed taking meals outside to eat in the sun. Joe
has looked forward to his daily swim and it's nice to find a pool with a real deep end. We have loved :-
1)
Boat ride at St Sigismond – so beautiful
2) Driving through the Mervent Forest
3) Having moules and frites at L'Aguillon sur Mer and sunbathing on the beach at
La Faute dur Mer
4) The town park at Lucon – a lovely town
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5) Scrambling in the nets at Parcabout in Fontenay
6) Our daily walk for bread and croissants and listening to the frogs in the stream and spotting kingfishers
7) Shopping in Niort at Gallerie La Fayette sales
8) Finding the boat over the river on chains
Home now to try to make gallettes with the flour from the Mill.
Thank you for a lovely stay"
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Kevin and Sarah Saunders, Lincs
Jul
2015
"Thank you so much – we hope to be back."
"We have had a lovely week in a lovely gite – so sad to leave. I booked for a week of relaxation after a
challenging few months and we got that in bucket loads !!
Pool is fab, and a walk into the village a real treat. Haven't done much else, a trip to La Rochelle was thoroughly
enjoyable and it's somewhere worth another trip. Pizzeria at Oulmes is lovely, and we enjoyed a couple of trips to
the Creperie. Thank you so much – we hope to be back"
Lynne and Mark Wightman, Durham
Jun
2015
"The gite is high standard and the pool – well – what can I say?"
"What a fabulous week in the Vin de Merlot attended to by lovely hosts. The gite is high standard and the pool – well – what can I say? Cycling every morning – mainly in the Venise Verte and back to the pool every afternoon for at least 3 'dips'!! Thank you both for a wonderful weeks' relaxation"
The Pantings, Suffolk
Jun
2015
"Great fun!! Gite and hosts come highly recommended."
"A wonderful stay. Thoroughly enjoyed the area. La Rochelle was a must – Andre Fish Restaurant excellent
Thank you both for all your tips and guidance. Plus the 6 nail balancing trick – we got there in the end with
much help. Great fun!! Gite and hosts come highly recommended"
Bryan and Margaret Eida, Surrey
Jun
2015
"The pool is a real bonus"
"A memorable holiday – thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Thank you both for your guidance and recommendations on places to go and eat – also for your attention to the pool and grounds. It makes a place special. The pool is a real bonus – gave me the confidence to start swimming again after an accident. Will be making the six nail board and would recommend the gite and hosts"
Sue and Roger Levette, England
See Previous Years Reviews
Jul
2014
"It was hard to fault anything."
"We had a wonderful time at this gite. It was hard to fault anything. We brought bikes and went from village
to village easily with great advice from our hosts who know the area like the back of their hand. Restful and relaxing
and 'rouge' – the three Rs for a great holiday
I enjoyed the holiday a lot. It was relaxing, had great activities, and the food in the village was lovely.
We ate at the Creperie and the hotel which both were very nice. The hosts were very good and were very helpful.
Conor age 13
This is my favourite holiday so far. As it had lots of activities to do such as table tennis, swimming pool, badminton
and some good restaurants. We had the best hosts ever. So 'THANK YOU'. Matthew age 11"
Sarah and Phil
Aug
2014
"We should have booked 2 weeks instead of 1 !!"
"Fabulous holiday! Accommodation and hosts perfect. Location gives peaceful way of life but also central to many interesting places. Our only complaint is – we should have booked 2 weeks instead of 1 !! We have thoroughly enjoyed our stay here. We travelled by light aircraft into Fontenay le Comte aeroclub who were also very accommodating"
Richard, Paula, and Clara
Aug
2014
"Great location, well equipped gite."
"Great location, well equipped gite, and very knowledgeable and friendly hosts who were always on hand to offer
advice and tips for the area. Definitely recommend Puy du Fou, although do get there early. Left at 9:15 and caught
in traffic – would say at least 30 minutes earlier. Worth it though!! Ile de Re on a nice day and the lake/beach
at Chassenon Bourg also recommended
Thanks to our hosts for the courgettes and all the helpful tips and advice over the past couple of weeks"
Tim, Carla, and Jessica
Aug
2014
"A lovely pool and garden for a lazy few hours each day."
"A wonderful, relaxing, and thoroughly enjoyable 2 weeks in the haven that is the Vendee. Thank you firstly to our hosts for being perfect. Recommend Coulon, Lucon, and Fontenay for visits. Butchers and bakery both top notch and very helpful. Creperie and Auberge definitely worth a try as is the Pizzeria in Oulmes. Lastly, a lovely pool and garden for a lazy few hours each day. What more could you ask for? See you for now!"
Alison, Peter, Olwen, and Adam xx
Aug
2013
"This is our third visit to Chez Gites and we'd come back again."
"The sign of a good holiday to me is feeling so relaxed that after two weeks you're not wishing to come home.
This is our third visit to Chez Gites and I can honestly say – we'd come back again. The hosts are great fun, the
Pool is spotless and now heated even better than before – even though in the temperatures we experienced it's
nice to cool off a bit and the gites are really well kitted out.
The village is beautiful and there is plenty to see and do – even if you've been before.
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It's a lovely area of
France and seems to have its own micro climate. and just eating fresh bread, cheese, fruit etc and drinking a nice red
in the gardens is fine to me. Two boys were never bored, (12 and 8) and when you've got a family, if the kids are
happy, you're happy too.
Try the bakery – and the creperie – but you might need to book – it's extremely
popular – always a good sign though. Thanks once again R and S – It was a pleasure."
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Marc, Jules, Matt and Cally
Aug
2013
"A lovely pool and garden for a lazy few hours each day."
"We've enjoyed a lovely week here – thanks so much for being so welcoming and also recommending some great day trips. We enjoyed a day in La Rochelle (a one hour drive) where we had a fantastic lunch in a restaurant called 'La Petite Auberge', which we found on TripAdvisor and was well worth a visit. We spent a morning hiring bikes in the base de loisirs, in Mervent (15 minute drive) where there are beautiful lakes for boat hire and many well marked bike trails to follow, suitable for beginner bike riders thankfully!! On our lazier days, the pool was fantastic and the gite had everything we needed. Thank you again!!"
The Williams Family
Jul
2013
"Hope you enjoy your stay as much as we have!!"
"We have had a great holiday. Gite is very comfortable, with an excellent pool and BBQ area, which we have
taken advantage of. You've been lovely hosts, very friendly and amenable with great local knowledge which helped
1)
Puy du Fou is a must! A great family day out. A different 'Park' experience to
those in England, but worth taking a packed lunch
2) Beach – we went to La Tranch sur Mer a couple of times – lovely beach and
local shops/restaurants, but need to take a parasol if hot as no shade on beach
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3)
La Rochelle – fantastic old town – could do 2 days exploring here –
great restaurants and Aquarium
We had a bad weather day and so went to Futuroscope which was very good as we could dodge the rain in the experiences.
We also brought our own kayak with us and had a great afternoon on the lake at Xanton'Chassenon (about 15 minutes
away). There is also a bathing area and water slides which our girls found great fun
Hope you enjoy your stay as much as we have!!
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Clare, Rob, Gaby and Elizabeth
Aug
2013
"It has felt really like a home from home."
"We've had a fabulous week here. The facilities are great and it has felt really like a home from home. The
village is lovely and the park and river are well worth spending time at.
We had good meals at the Creperie and the
Hotel (hilarious owner!!). Coulon is very pretty and whilst we didn't this time, the boats and little train would
definitely be on our list if we came again.
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The Lake at Chassenon has good facilities and a beach and is just down the road. The Abbey and Mill in the village
are worth a look – we spent a whole day down there. Niort is pretty good for shopping and a general mooch
around – shame we had a toddler in tow!!. We very much enjoyed the barbecued courgettes!! Thanks for everything
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The Rickmans
Jul
2013
"Hope you have as good a time as us. Thanks again."
"Thanks both for your help and abundant knowledge of the local area. Had a great relaxing 2 weeks, have to go home to detox from sampling all Steve's wine recommendations! As other recommendations, boating a must and we greatly enjoyed swinging in the trees in Mervent – Parc Aventure – they speak great English – very good fun. Hope you have as good a time as us. Thanks again"
Sam, Mel Alex and Christian
Jul
2013
"So envious of everyone who still has their holiday here ahead of them!!"
"So envious of everyone who still has their holiday here ahead of them!! Thank you for your lovely gite, gardens,
and pool. We've had a great time
Top tips for others – the brand new swimming plage at Chassenon–le–Bourg; boating on any bit of the
Green Venice – we started from Maillezais, cycling anywhere and everywhere (we were so glad we brought the bikes
with us); the coast at Ile de Re; Puy du Fou was great for a cool day – can't think of anything quite like it in
the UK. Thanks again."
Jane, Graeme, James
Aug
2012
"A lovely holiday and we don't want to leave!!"
"What a wonderful week we have had. A lovely gite with fantastic facilities and brilliant hosts. They could not have
been more helpful and welcoming and made our holiday that much better.
So relaxing to stay in the vicinity of the gite, but if you are interested in having a go at surfing Les Conches is a
fantastic beach with surf hire and a surf school right on the beach
We also went boating at Coulon and also at Damvix, which was great fun and the forests around Vouvant are worth a stroll
around.
A lovely holiday and we don't want to leave!!"
The Collins Family
Aug
2012
"Kids adore the place and pool and have always something to do."
"Yet again – another fantastic 2 weeks in the Vendee. Weather has been superb and we have had an even more
relaxing time this year. HOT HOT HOT 50C/40C in the shade!! Phew!
Kids adore the place and pool and have always something to do. This year we tried kayaking and canoeing in Mervent
which was great fun. Niort is nice to visit and Coulon always nice to see again.
Thanks both once again for making our stay so great."
Marc, Jules, Matt and Cally
Jun
2012
"One of the best appointed gites we have had."
"We have used French Gites for some 15 years and this is one of the best appointed ones we have had. Do visit the
village (use the short cut – lovely views). The Auberge and the Creperie are good and will provide good food and
wine at reasonable cost and within staggering distance!
Super U and Leclerc at Fontenay will provide anything else including diesel and petrol at rock bottom prices.
Free WI–FI on site and in the gites and at McDonalds at Super U.
Niort, Lucon, and Vouvant are all well worth the visit as well as locally the Abbey in the village and the Chateau de
Terre Neuve in Fontenay.
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Punts/Canoes can be hired at Damvix but we found the trip aboard the 'Bateau Mouche' from there excellent
value – 4 course meal, wine, aperitif, and 3h45min canal cruise for 45 euros per person. Any problems or advice
just ask Steve who couldn't be more helpful"
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Gerry and Kathy Skinner
Aug
2012
"Definitely a gite worth coming to again."
"Lovely gite, beautiful setting, excellent pool, charming, helpful hosts.
A perfect spot and set–up for a totally relaxing holiday which was what we all needed. We spent most of the time
at the gite, reading, sunbathing, swimming, table tennis, and, of course, eating and drinking !
An interesting afternoon tour and tasting at the Moulin in the village. Dined at the Creperie and Le Captain (in
Fontenay) – both places recommended and good meals at both !
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Definitely a gite worth coming to again; will recommend it to others and may well return ourselves with more
in tow !
Ah well, here's to spending one last delightful stress free day on site. A stroll down to the Moulin to buy
some bread flour to experiment with and a walk around the Abbey. A late afternoon swim in the pool and a scrummy BBQ
ably prepared by Martyn!"
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Jane, Martyn and Samantha
Aug
2012
"Lots to do in the local area."
"Can confirm everything that has been written before reference our hosts, the gite, the pool etc. 2 excellent weeks
with some very high temperatures. Would really recommend Puy du Fou, but not on a very hot day – Steve's weather
forecasting is very accurate!! Amazing day out for any age. Also enjoyed punting on the river at Coulon, the climbing at
Mervent Forest, Vouvant and the beach at Les Sables
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Lovely gite, very peaceful. Lots to do in the local area. Enjoyed the cycling and boating in Maillezais and can
really recommend the 'L'Auberge de l'Abbaye'. Definitely an area to revisit"
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The Wallis Family
Aug
2011
"One of our best holidays."
"Thanks to you both – you have made a superb holiday that much better
One of our best holidays, Great location for going to lots of places, very peaceful, favourite days out were to La
Rochelle, the 'barque' (like punting) at Maille and Vouvant. the pool is excellent and our hosts gave just
the right touches to make the holiday just what we expected. Am fully refreshed."
Sean, Anne and Amy Pickin
Aug
2011
"Our two boys can't wait to come back next year !!"
"Thank you both for a wonderful two weeks. Our two boys Matthew and Callum have had a brilliant time and can't wait
to come back next year !!
The pool is superb and the area is a super area to explore from. As other guests have stated, Puy du Fou is brilliant,
Green Venice a must, and La Rochelle nice to visit – if busy. The abbeys close by are well worth a visit also.
Thanks to you both for your hospitality"
Marc, Jules, Matthew and Callum
Aug
2010
"Cannot recommend Chez Gites highly enough !"
"We had an excellent holiday, excellent hosts, superb weather, brilliant place, the kids loved the pool.
We holidayed here last year, and this year was just as good
There is so much to try to pack into 2 weeks, and then leave some time to laze by the pool too. We had a really good
time at Puy du Fou and also the Aquarium at La Rochelle. There is still lots left that we didn't have time to get to.
Once again a wonderful holiday – hospitality is superb! Cannot recommend Chez Gites highly enough ! Thank you
for a holiday which sends us home renewed and refreshed"
Alison, Warren, Will and Rob
Aug
2010
"The children loved the pool, and we all enjoyed badminton and table tennis."
"We have had a wonderful two weeks, helped by some lovely weather. Our highlights :-
1)
Aquarium at La Rochelle, get there early to avoid long queues
2) Cycling and hiring a barge – you can do at Coulon, but also recommend Damvix
(near Maille) as it is quieter and less 'touristy', also cycle tracks nice and shady
3) The freshest 'Moules et Frites' on the Canal side at Marans – near lock gates at 'Le Petit Bouchot'
4) A walk in the woods at Vouvant, tourist office has a map of varying lengths of walks and a picturesque river
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The children loved the pool, and we all enjoyed badminton and table tennis, plus our daily walk to the bakery – if
you like croissants, get there early or, like us, have a lie–in having ordered the day before.
For a reasonably priced, really nice meal we recommend l'Escargot Vendeen on the main road through Oulmes
Thanks to Steve for all his tips and advice – without him pointing things out we would not have had so many
highlights. Thanks for a lovely time – loved the kitten by the way"
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Phil, Helen, Jemma (12) and Daniel (9)
Jul
2010
"A wonderful place to unwind, many thanks for all your help."
"Thank you for a lovely holiday – excellent facilities. Excellent pool and hammock, the courgettes
and cucumbers were very nice too.
We would recommend a visit to the Abbey in Nieul sur l'Autise – great multimedia presentation.
We travelled over to Ile de Re and if you decide to go there, try a meal in La Flotte overlooking the harbour.
Boating in Coulon was great fun although we had to shelter under the trees to avoid some sharp showers of rain !
The rest of the time we simply relaxed by the pool or read under the gazebo. A wonderful place to unwind, many thanks
for all your help."
Regards Caroline, Malcolm and Richard Stone
Aug
2010
"I've had a blast !"
"Thanks to you both for making our first stay in a French Gite fab. How clean it was and had everything that
we needed. This area of France is beautiful and has loads to do for every age group. The pool is fab and a proper
sunspot. Thanks again for your hospitality
Thank you both for a wonderful time this past two weeks, I've had a blast ! I especially enjoyed going to Mervent
with our canoe and, of course, the gorgeous kitten ! Thanks again."
The Hughes Family
Aug
2010
"Loved the pool !!"
"A lovely gite with great hosts. We would recommend visiting the Abbey, Mervent Forest, and Vouvant. We enjoyed cycling and boating and lazing by the pool – very peaceful. I enjoyed the beach at Ile de Re, lovely restaurants wherever you go, I also enjoyed thoroughly the boating at Mervent Forest. Loved the pool !! Lots of things to do. I'd definitely recommend the Abbey at Nieul sur l'Autise, and boating in Maillezais."
Chris, Sarah, Samuel, Imogen Baldwin
Sep
2009
"The boats at Coulon were a wonderful trip through the marshes."
"Had a wonderful two weeks here at Chez Gites. Many thanks for making us feel welcome and at home and for all
your local knowledge and advice, not to mention the fabulous tomatoes and courgettes !!
Enjoyed all the facilities here, especially lazing by the pool watching the boys do all the energetic stuff. The
beach at La Tranche sur Mer well worth a visit – huge waves and interesting rock pools. The boats at Coulon
were a wonderful trip through the marshes. The Saturday Market at Fontenay – very colourful. La Rochelle a
lovely medieval town that we enjoyed greatly.
Going home relaxed and refreshed, with happy memories of our stay – hope to be back soon."
Alison, Warren, Will and Rob
Aug
2009
"I really can't compliment this place enough."
"What a fantastic holiday we've had. Our thanks to you both for creating such a delightful environment. The gite
is tasteful, comfortable, and spacious, as well as having really good quality equipment. The pool is wonderful and we
really haven't found any need to venture too far a field. In addition, having badminton, boules and table tennis
on site is a real bonus.
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Nieul itself has everything you could possibly need within walking distance and is at the same time a really attractive
village. That notwithstanding, there is also the Abbey, which is wonderful. Dinner at the hotel is recommended.
I really can't compliment this place enough. We have been spectacularly lazy, or relaxed, and leave feeling very
much refreshed!!
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Best Wishes, Rosie, Tim, Gracie, Jude, and Laurie
Aug
2009
"We have also consumed far too many baguettes and croisants !!"
"Thank you very much for providing us with two very enjoyable weeks here in Nieul sur l'Autise. We have
particularly enjoyed the local Abbey, cycle route, Coulon, Creperie, Boating Trips, and our accommodation (not to mention
the swimming pool !!) We have also consumed far too many baguettes and croisants !!
Thank you again for being such friendly hosts and giving us a pleasant, memorable holiday."
Richard, Jackie, Hannah and Robert
Jun
2009
"Our 3rd visit, and probably our best yet."
"Our 3rd visit, and probably our best yet – a combination of fantastic weather and excellent surroundings and company. It was delightful to take an evening stroll to the village and watch the heron on the weir, and go rabbit watching on the way home. Such a relaxing place to stay – going home with our batteries recharged ready to face the British rain !!"
Meg and Bryn
Aug
2008
"Relax and Enjoy – we have."
"It's only a few pages since we wrote last year !!
Fantastic weather has meant a very relaxed time. La Tranche (park in central beach car park) has a great family beach. We
have done our favourites again – the Abbey, hotel, and creperie in the village always great value.
La Rochelle aquarium very good, go early – it opens 9:00.
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Flea market at Fontenay Saturday morning well worth a
visit – go to the indoor market for fish, meat, and bread.
We have discovered many excellent wines, buy from Hyper U or Leclerc at about 3 to 4 euros.
Fishing in the village is good fun, we caught rudd roach and perch. Cheap equipment in the supermarket.
Relax and Enjoy – we have
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James, Sue, Edward and Victoria Simpson
Aug
2008
"The gite and surroundings are fabulous – very spacious inside and out."
"Our best bits:-
1)
Make sure you try 'La Tranche' – fantastic beaches which were generally
deserted – about an hour away. If you like it quiet, head for 'La Phare' car park ('Lighthouse')
which is free and never busy (we went twice !). Check the tide tables (in one of the tourist guides 'En Vendee')
and make sure you get there to coincide with high tide; there are great rock pools at low tide (look for oysters with
the locals), but low tide not so good for bathing ! Keep your eyes out for a fossil or two
2) 'Puy du Fou' is immense. Great for children or adults, but plan on £25 a
head for the day. If you have some basic French, you don't need a translator. As previous people have said, get
there at 10:00, Vikings first then Gladiators. Take a brolly in case of rain as it's 90% outside
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3) Market in Fontenay is great fun. Not too big and not a lot of 'fall apart' clothing !! Upstairs in the
indoor area if you like your seafood – moules are very cheap there !!
4) The Abbeys were a great hit with our two National Trust-averse children (6 and 8). Not at all what you would
expect, and really fantastically treated/designed. We preferred Nieul sur l'Autise, enjoyed especially the
'joystick choirs' in the last house!! Keep your tickets for half-price entry to the other abbey at
Maillezais – a very different but excellent morning out
5) Make sure you explore Nieul sur l'Autise. It is 5 minutes past the mill. The restaurant at La Cloitre is
great value – very authentic food at miniscule prices – try the 'duo'. And pick the wines from the
mantelpiece for the top quality ones ! We had the last Cotes de Borg 2005 – sorry !!
6) La Rochelle is great, park past the aquarium for a free car park, but get there before 10:00 or the aquarium
is full
7) Wines – we stocked up in the Loire on the way down. 'Fiefs Vendeen' is
the local VDQS. Good value – good fun. Buy from the producer at Pissotte (very nice chap !!). Or there are a
few caves at Vix. The other producers (at Mareuil) are a bit of a long drive away, but 'Marat' is the best.
You can buy his wines at a local wine shop in the centre of La Tranche (about 1 euro more expensive, but they have
the whole range). Enjoy ...
As others have mentioned, the gite and surroundings are fabulous – very spacious inside and out. An excellent pool
and badminton, table tennis and swings to supplement the non–aquatic amongst us. We lived in the outdoor kitchen,
but never quite mastered the BBQ. Better luck next time !!
Thanks for the relaxed laid back atmosphere. Although it is a shared complex, it always felt 'ours' to use."
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David, Ruth, Owyn (age 6) and Thomas (age 8)
Jul
2008
"We will take home wonderful memories of our 'Bastille Celebrations'"
"What a wonderful, relaxing holiday. The girls enjoyed the pool and all that the site had to offer. The Abbey at Nieul sur l'Autise is beautiful and well worth a visit. The walk to the village to buy our daily bagette made a peaceful start to each day. Our hosts were great, and we will take home wonderful memories of our 'Bastille Celebrations'"
Lorraine, Norman, Claire and Sarah (Bristol)
Aug
2007
"It really is only 5 mins walk along river."
"Superb spacious gite, surroundings, fab pool, BBQ, and summer kitchen which doubled up as an excellent poker games room !! Fab hosts gave excellent advice on wines and places to eat and visit. Bakers in Oulmes good. We enjoyed visiting La Rochelle (get there early), Coulon, Maillezais Abbey, Fontenay market, and beach at La Tranche sur Mer. It really is only 5 mins walk along river, past mill into town to bar/restaurant at Hotel du Cloitre – excellent food. A big thank you"
Liza, Keith, Jamie and Becky – La Alexander Famille – xxxx
Jul
2007
"There is more than enough to do all within easy reach."
"An excellent holiday in wonderful surroundings – made all the better for superb accommodation and care and attention. There is more than enough to do all within easy reach – we have fished in the village, visited La Rochelle (aquarium a must for the children – then eat on the harbour side). Rowed the canals at Maillezais (cheaper away from the Abbey). Spent days on various beaches and of course lazed by the pool and introduced the children (8 + 5) to numerous card games. A great two weeks"
James, Sue, Edward, Victoria Simpson
Aug
2007
"Puy du Fou is a must and fun for the whole family."
"This holiday has been fantastic. Gite exceptionally clean and information well received. Creperie (in the village) excellent value – food was very good too. Coulon is pretty, must try the boats there (sans batelier) – well worth a laugh. Puy du Fou is a must and fun for the whole family (70 miles or 1 hour 15 mins), have to be there on opening (10 o'clock – do the vikings first). For smaller children (under 12) Parc de Pierre Brune near Mervent is a good day out – hotel food okay but watch the wait. Market Saturday morning at Fontenay le Comte. La Rochelle (down by port/old ports) another nice day out. Many thanks for a great two weeks"
Jess, Alex, and Alastair Carvlin
Jul
2007
"Gite is very comfortable and the pool and barbeque are great !"
"We've had a wonderful time – the Gite is very comfortable and the pool and barbeque are great ! The bakery next to the Post Office is better than that in the square and the E Leclerc on the Nantes road out of Fontenay is excellent. The 'batirs' at Coulon are great fun and La Rochelle is a lovely town. Many thanks for everything"
Alan, Jill, Elliot, and Lucy Paton
Jul
2007
"This place is GREAT !""
"Fabulous gite, swimming pool and hosts. Loads to entertain the children – many thanks. Puy du Fou is brilliant
for kids and adults alike. Quite unique. La Rochelle town and aquarium well worth a visit. Beache at La Tranche sur Mer.
Enjoyed rowing round the various waterways. We hope to return !
Puy du Fou is a fantastic place because there was lots of good things to watch, my best bit was the gladiators when
all the fake blood came out when they died. Adam Best
It is a great place and there is a Grand Park 1 hour away. With Bird dancers and Gladiators. A 5 minute walk to the Park
with a tennis court and a big feild. A great swimming pool with table tennis and lots of games in the pool. The heat
can get up to 40 C (104 F). Paul Best.
This place is GREAT !"
Helen and Stuart Best
Aug
2007
"Make sure you pick their brains !""
"We have had a delightful week despite the weather. There's so much to see and do that we'll be back at some time in the future. Many thanks for being wonderful hosts, giving advice on best places to visit, how and when is best to get there – good knowledge of local restaurants etc, so make sure you pick their brains !. The gite and environs are lovely, well maintained and looked after. All in all we have been very impressed and will happilly pass on the details to friends that want to vaccance en Vendee – Au revoir"
Graham, Ann, Becky and Jack
Aug
2006
"Would there be any vacancies left for for us ?!!""
"Another great break away from it all. Dilemma is, of course, letting everybody else know about 'Chez Gites' – would there be any vacancies left for for us ?!!. Thank you both very much for lovely gites, fab pool, quiet areas to read and play games in, eating and cooking al fresco and more exploring locally ... plus walnuts to leave with. Couldn't be any better!! See you again"
Pete and Sheila Wendes
Aug
2006
"I hope mam n dad bring us back here again.""
"Lovely gite, very clean and well equipped, and great hosts. We had some nice days out, including Puy du Fou where
we saw the gladiators, also Futuroscope at Poitiers. We had good days at the beaches of La Tranche sur Mer and St Gilles
de Vie. Try Prefou, the local flat garlic bread. Great market in Fontenay le Comte on Saturday morning. Very relaxing
lazing around the pool, I read loads of books!! We would definitely come again some time
I love the pool, enjoyed the table tennis – I hope mam n dad bring us back here again. Rhys Cox, age 14
Best swimming pool out of the gites I've stayed in France. And the cleanest. Marc Cox, age 10"
Norman and Rhoswen Cox
Aug
2006
"We had one particularly successful day on the coast at La Tranche sur Mer""
"Thank you both for the clean and comfortable accommodation, the fantastic pool and BBQ, and for your helpfullness. The hotel here in the village serves excellent food and is very good value, particularly the 'set menus' and the carafe(s) of house wine!! We had one particularly successful day on the coast at La Tranche sur Mer, about an hour from here. Tip – get there before about 11:30am and park in the '300 free spaces' car park. Go to the top end and park on the side near the beach if possible. The fun and interesting shops are within easy walking distance. You can hire windsurfers, canoes, cateramins, or small sailing dinghies with or without instruction. There is a small 'sea lake' which is very safe for children or beginners. Coulon is also worth a visit and quite close to here"
John, Kate, Mathew and Becky Prizeman
Sep
2005
"Well run gite with real attention to detail and comfort.""
"A perfect relaxing place for a holiday, well run gite with real attention to detail and comfort. All we needed available on site. We loved the pool and outside kitchen area, lovely gardens providing sun or shade and lit up for eating outside or cool drinks in the warm evenings. It's only a short walk from the village centre for bakers, bank, restaurants and bars and the splendid abbey; and the surrounding countryside provides days of interesting and varied activities. We have visited France over many years and this is simply the best gite we've stayed in! Thank you both."
Pete and Sheila Wendes
"Merci beaucoup."
"A big thank you to you both for being such great hosts and for all the hard work in creating and maintaining such a lovely gite and site in general.
We enjoyed days out at Coulon, Mervent, Lac de Chassenon and La Tranche sur Mer and days in Nieul sur l'Autise at the museum and Abbey, enjoying the pool, practising our table tennis and learning how to play boules!!
We had great weather and even survived 40C+ temperatures with the help of the wonderful pool, shade and a lot of SPF50 suncream !! Merci beaucoup."
The Prossers, Gloucestershire – August 2020