Les Jonquilles is in the south Deux-Sevres close to the border with the departements of Vienne and Charente yet also only an hour’s drive to the Atlantic coast of the Charente Maritime. The N10 road from Poitiers to Angouleme and Bordeaux is only 15 mins away. Within easy driving distance are the airports of Poitiers, La Rochelle and Limoges.
We are situated in historic Javarzay close to the beautiful renaissance Chateau de Javarzay with its park and fishing lake and the 12th century Roman Church. All the facilities of the small market town of Chef-Boutonne are within walking distance. Visit its lively Saturday morning market selling freshly caught fish and local produce and enjoy a coffee or sample the regional speciality ‘pineau des charentes’ at one of the pavement cafes. Lunches and evening meals are available at a variety of bistros, bars & restaurants in and around the area. The Romanesque market town of Melle with its historic silver mines is nearby and Ruffec on the N10 is within easy reach. Its an attractive town built beside the River Charente, steeped in history and rich in architecture.There are two Plans d’eau also within easy reach. Both provide picnic areas beside a large lake with sandy beaches. There is swimming, canoeing, cycling, children’s play areas and fishing. The unspoilt Poitou is the region of sunflowers. It has a warm temperate climate and is second only to the Cote d’Azure in average hours of sunshine.
The Poitou-Charente with its gentle rolling hills and quiet roads is ideal cycling territory, bicycles can be hired at Les Jonquilles. The beauty of the sunflower filled countryside, historic stone buildings and charming villages has inspired writers and painters and is appreciated by countless numbers of walkers who return year on year to enjoy the local hospitality and relax in this sunny, tranquil area of France.
GOLF
SWIMMING
A brand new swimming pool complex was opened in summer 2009. It is just 3 mins walk from Les Jonquilles and is suitable for children and adults, from 3 years upwards.
FISHING
Lake fishing is available in the nearby grounds of Chateau Javarzay, a 2 min walk from Les Jonquilles, and also at Le Chalet de Heronniere a 5 min walk from our house. The River Charente has an abundant fish population including roach, bream, pike, perch, tench and carp.
HORSE RIDING
In the village of Le Breuil Coiffaud near Chef Boutonne is the premier horse riding centre of the Deux Sevres. Les Ecuries du Breuil is a well established reputable riding school and pony trekking centre that caters for horse riding activities at all levels. Superb hacking, lessons, indoor & outdoor schools for beginners to experienced riders, are all available.
CHILDREN’S PLAY AREAS
Just a stone’s throw from Les Jonquilles there is a comprehensive children’s play area in the parkland grounds of the Chateau de Javarzay. Within a short driving distance are two Plans d’eau which have extensive play areas with sand, slides, climbing frames and roundabouts. For older children/teenagers there is swimming, fishing, pedal boats, cycling and canoeing on the lake.
