A beautifully simple house surrounded by beaches and vineyards.

Sun-seekers: With the Atlantic coast just four miles away, and stretching some 200 kilometres from Soulac-Sur-Mer at the top of the Gironde peninsular down to Biarritz near the Spanish border, what better way for families or friends to spend a day, enjoying relaxed fun and sunning on the golden sands of the uncrowded beaches nearby. For the explorers, there are plenty of opportunities to find your own deserted stretch of sand through the pine forests and off the beaten track. However, if you prefer to have amenities closer to hand, the resorts of Montalivet and Soulac-Sur-Mer are ideal, providing safe bathing as well as bars, restaurants and shops.

Action-packers: The Atlantic coast has long been a favourite with surfers, and it is no coincidence that Lacanau Plage, just a 20 minute drive down the coast, has regularly played host to World Pro surfing events and continues to be a surfer's paradise. Closer to home is the biggest freshwater lake in France, Hourtin Lac, which provides the perfect environment for water-sports enthusiasts of all levels (wind-surfing, kite-surfing,sailing) - equipment and lessons are available on site. The Cap 33 club in Montalivet also offers surfing and beach-buggying lessons for groups or individuals of all ages. Back on dry land, there is an impressive network of cycle paths around the area, comprehensively mapped out and well sign-posted, as well as walking, horse-riding, go-karting and a child-pleasing Adventure Forest for a view from the trees!

Food and Wine-lovers: As famous for its gastronomy as it is for its world-class wines, the Médoc must be one of the richest areas to be placed for food and wine lovers alike. Markets in surrounding towns and villages are great for finding local produce to try at home, and a good selection of restaurants near-by provide gourmet cuisine for very reasonable prices (a list of recommended eateries is available at the house). For some of the best food in the region, head for Montalivet market, where you can join the local residents enjoying fresh oysters, cheese and meats, all washed down with a glass or two of delicious médocain wine. To explore the vineyards further, drive to Lesparre and pick up the Route des Chateaux - a beautiful road winding through the vine-clad Gironde estuary past some of the most famous and impressive chateaux in the world. Enjoy a tour and some tasting at Chateau Margaux or simply stop en route at one of the many caves to try a delicious cross-section of locally produced wines.