CHATEAU NEAR COGNAC SW FRANCE

We have just returned from two utterly blissful weeks at this wonderful chateau deep in the Charentes Maritime region and I would recommend it thoroughly for anyone wanting to enjoy the best that the French countryside has to offer.

From the moment of our first arrival we were bowled over by the beautiful chateau and its extensive and well maintained grounds. Even in a large party across three generations there was plenty of room for everyone to have their own space and plenty to occupy even the most restless of teenagers!

The setting in the tiny hamlet of Le Pignaud was idyllic, and the local towns of Matha and St Jean d'Angely were only a few miles away, meaning that restaurtants, markets, shops and super-markets were all within easy reach.

The chateau itself was very clean and well-maintained, and incredibly well equipped with every amenity we could wish for. There were countless bikes of every shape and size available to explore the local (and fortunately flat!) countryside, and a beautiful and secluded pool to relax in and around. There was plenty of open lawns for football, badminton and other sports, and a charming seating area under the trees to enjoy meal times in the shade.

The bedrooms were all very comfortable with enough showers and bathrooms to cope with the largest of parties! Downstairs the games room with a pool table and table-tennis was a big hit with the children and adults alike, and the Sky TV and wireless internet meant that even on the wet days everyone had enough to keep themselves fully occupied.

All in all the chateau was an absolute delight, and we returned home having had one of the most enjoyable and thoroughly chilled-out holidays we have ever had!

We arrived and were stunned by the visual splendour of 'Le Pignaud'. This large property exceeded all our expectations.

We were a party of 3 generations, ourselves in our sixties, our 3 children and their spouses in their thirties and our two young grandsons, two and a half and five months. We had noted the recommendations of other visitors that it was suitable for family events and child friendly. We totally agree. There was lots of room, totally safe, a stunning enclosed pool, a games room, bikes for all and space to find peace and quiet.

The West wing suited the family with young children so they didn't feel they were disturbing others for night feeds and early morning rising. The cot room was perfect. Ample bed and bathrooms for all and we even had some friends to stay for one night.

The views were brilliant, open countryside, big skies, harvesting wheat fields and bright yellow sunflowers. We were lucky enough to have every meal outside in the shade of the trees, a peaceful setting. The kitchen and utility facilities were perfect for a large group in need of fridge, washing and cooking space.

As the weather was so good we did not explore far afield, but cycled when we could and loved St Jean D'Angely and it's market.

We walked to the neighbouring hamlet to visit 'Le Chene Verte' restaurant for lunch. An amazing eclectic country restaurant with locally sourced food. Highly recommended.

This was a perfect place for a French rural holiday in an exquisite property.

I was recommended 'Le Pignaud' by a neighbour who stayed at the Chateau in 2010. We were looking to go away with 2 other families, a total party size of 12 ... 6 Adults and 6 children (ages ranging from 2-10). The Chateau looked ideal, and it lived up to ALL expectations.

The 8/9 bedrooms easily accommodated everyone, and there were plenty of bathrooms, ideal for a party of our size. The kitchen was fantastic, they have thought of everything. There is plenty of freezer and fridge space, which was perfect, as we ate in for most meals. The kitchen is so well equipped, you do not need to bring anything from home.

I have stayed in villa's in both Spain and USA, and 'Le Pignaud' wins by a country mile. The Chateau is very grand, and you feel like the 'Lord of the Manor'. As soon as I entered the double gates, and I knew that I had made a good choice. The other 2 families arrived about half an hour later, and both agreed that it had the wow factor.

The swimming pool was large enough for all of us to enjoy at the same time. It is well protected from the wind, and is baked in sunshine throughout the day. The swimming pool area is fenced, which is perfect for families with young children.

The outside eating area and BBQ were well used. There was nothing more enjoyable than eating 'al fresco' for all meals. With the playing field directly behind the eating area, the children were happy to go off and play, while the adults could indulge in a drink & conversation after lunch/dinner.

'Le Pignaud' has a rural location, and is approx 40-50 mins drive from the sea. For us, this only added to the charm. We made a couple of excursions to the seaside, which the children enjoyed. Being in a rural location, we made the most of the bicycles that are available for use, and made numerous little trips around the vineyards ... the single country lanes are deserted of traffic, and were ideal cycling conditions for young children.

Overall, we had the most Fantastic time. When the children start to ask 'When are we coming here again?', then you know it's been a hit.

I was recommended 'Le Pignaud' by a neighbour, and I have no hesitation in recommending it to others. In fact we had such a good time, we have already enquired making a reservation for next year!