Climate:
The property is situated in the heart of the wonderful micro-climate that is enjoyed here. It is said to be second only to the Côte d'Azur and regularly records 2,500 hours of sunshine a year. As a result many sub-tropical plants grow, we have a 5 metre banana tree in the garden which bore fruit in 2007. The local farms grow maize, sunflowers, tobacco and delicious melons which are on sale between April and October.
However winters can be quite cold but we're fully prepared for off-peak guests and the house, apart from the two log burners is equipped with partial gas central heating, and both house and cottage with electric wall radiators. We may have to make a nominal charge for the central heating costs in exceptionally cold periods.
You'll find the thick walls and shutters give excellent insulation, keeping the properties cool in summer and retaining the warmth in winter.
Games provided and the swimming pool:
The gardens are mainly flat lawned areas so you can play short tennis and badminton which is supplied. A covered lean-to corner of the main barn near the pool provides a shaded area for sitting and barbeque meals and we also use this area to play table tennis and darts. There is an indoor football table in the utility room for the guests in Wisteria House.
The swimming pool is of a single depth of 1.5 metres, about 9 metres by 5 metres and it is planned to install heating for the 2010 season. Elegant wide steps which also serve as seats on two sides lead into it so the full depth area can be used for swimming and ball games. The pool is set in a secured, paved area with plenty of seating. Outbuildings have been converted to house the pump and filter, to provide a shaded area and a changing room. There is also an outside shower. The pool is regularly maintained and uses bromide salt rather than chlorine which doesn't smell and is generally less irritating to sensitive skins.
Golf in the area:
There are many golf courses in the Vendée, perhaps the most famous being La Domangère, a par 72, 6472 metres which was host to the 1990 French Open Championships. This is only 44 kilometres away, a drive of just 35 minutes. The other four 18 hole courses are all within an hour's drive, maximum 100 kilometres, and we understand you can hire clubs at all of them.
Other Activities:
Wine tasting, follow the local wine trails and discover the Vendeen wines.
