About us
Belle Etoile, our ‘beautiful star’, consists of a stylishly converted 19th century farmhouse and loft apartment combining rustic charm and contemporary chic. Set in an unspoilt, peaceful hamlet it is surrounded by stunning views.
During the peak summer season the house and gite can only be let together, so guests have exclusive use of the exceptional solar heated pool, which extends to 20 metres for lane swimming, and the courtyard with its pergola for alfresco dining, fire pit and chimenea barbecue, floodlit boulodrome (boules/petanque court), and exceptionally equipped games barn.
The pool, with its infinity-view across rolling countryside, is securely enclosed by child-proof fencing, and accessed by a self-closing gate. The adjoining sun terrace is furnished with two large parasols, 8x cushioned sun-loungers, and a large rattan corner sofa – the perfect spot to watch the sun go down.
The surrounding private garden, with children’s swings, is adjoined by a paddock where children can kick a football about or organise a game of family cricket.
The property has wi-fi internet connection and English FreeSat satellite television.
Belle Etoile is suitable for year-round use. Its deep stone walls keep it cool in summer and warm in winter. A wood burner in the living room, and oil-fired central heating heats the house, while the gite has its own wood-burner and very effective electric radiators.
Frequently Asked Questions
What deposit is required?
When confirming a reservation, we require 50% of the total rental amount to be paid along with our signed Rental Agreement. The balance is then payable, along with the requisite security deposit, one calendar month prior to arrival.
Do I need a car?Belle Etoile is a rural property in a tiny hamlet in the gorgeous rolling Charantaie countryside. The closest shops and restaurants are approximately 4km away, and the nearest main town, Angouleme, is 26km away, so it is advisable to have a car. Either drive your own from home or rent one at your point of entry into France – there is plenty of space to park at Belle Etoile.
What's the nearest airport?Bordeaux Merignac Airport is 125km away
Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport is 103 km away
Limoges Airport is 117km away
Poitiers Airport is 140km away, which is a direct train journey into Angouleme
Cars can be easily hired at each of these airports or from Angouleme train station
What should I do if something breaks?The more notice we have of any damage or breakage, the more time we will have to repair or replace.
We want you to enjoy your experience at Belle Etoile and have a fabulous holiday, however we only have 6 hours to turn the property around between the outgoing guests leaving and the incoming guests arriving, which doesn’t leave much time to make the property as fabulous as you expect it to be.
If we don’t discover any major breakages until your departure, it is unlikely we will be able to fix or replace them in time for the new guests, which would be as disappointing for them as it would be for you.
Where do I collect the keys?The keys are provided via a lock-box on site. On receipt of your final payment and security deposit we will provide you with all necessary access codes and instructions along with directions from your point of arrival in France.
We ask that you ensure the keys are returned to the lock box and secured every time you leave the property unattended, so that access can be gained easily in the event of any emergency.
Are there pharmacies and doctors nearby?“Fabulous house & pool, [and] beautiful surroundings. Great to have a well-equipped kitchen to make use of the local produce too.”
-S Wilkes.
— Former Holiday Maker