Although Boutillon gites are just 15 minutes from La Rochelle, they are situated in lovely peaceful French countryside surrounded by fields & sunflowers (at certain times of the year).
They are owned by Paul & Edwige Farnham, who live on sitewith their foster children (their own children have grown up & are studying or working in the UK). Paul & Edwige moved to Le Moulin Boutillon in 1997 (in the same village as Edwige spent her childhood) and began renovating the Duplex (which was first rented in 1999) and then building the other gites. They really did work hard as when they arrived Boutillon was a run-down farmhouse with derelict outbuildings and all the building work was completed by Paul & his father in law, fantastic!
Paul & Edwige are fluent in English & French and are happy to assist in any way during your holiday – they can easily suggest activities for children of all ages as their own children have grown up in this area.
There are four family friendly gites (cottages) on site:
one bed (ideal for a couple plus baby or toddler)
two bed (sleeping 5)
three bed (sleeping 7)
four bed (sleeping 8)
Within the grounds there is a heated pool (heated to 28 degrees by a heat pump), a games room (with pool, tennis and football tables) and a huge playing field to run around or play petanque & football. In the garden there is lots to keep your little ones busy with swings, sand pit, trampoline, a couple of outdoor tents filled with toys and plenty of space to simply run free.
The cottages sleep up to 22 and can all be rented together, which is great for a family celebration, a large family holiday or groups of friends that would like to holiday together. The games room can be transformed into a function room – seating up to 35. Or if the weather is fantastic, the seating can be arranged outside in the shade of the trees by the pool. This is an ideal space for a celebratory meal or large family get together. Tables, chairs, cutlery and a music system can be provided.
There is a large well-equipped kitchen with a BBQ / Rotisserie, a wood fired pizza oven and a Paella Cooker. However, if cooking for that many guests is a bit daunting (yikes!), caterers can easily be arranged.
There is a choice of two local villages, Verines and Angliers, both just 1km away (2 mins by car or a 20 minute walk). Both villages have a bakery, grocery shop, restaurant and a weekly market.
There is a huge choice of days out from this wonderful location, we have chosen five (it was a struggle to choose!);
Ile d’Re – the toll bridge onto Ille d’Re is just a 20 minute drive. You can then take your car over to the island. The best way to explore is actually by bike (super friendly place for cyclists), so that you can easily reach all the pretty villages & wonderful beaches that line the coastline. There are many beaches & activities to try as well as a wonderful selection of restaurants & cafes to enjoy – be sure to try the seafood.
Marais Poitevin – also known as ‘Green Venice’ this area is paradise for nature lovers. Marais Poitevin is made up of green parkland with lots of small rivers & canals running through it. The ideal way to explore is by boat and you will be surrounded by lovely tranquil scenery. However, if you prefer to be on land, it’s also a great area for cycling. There is also a good selection of cafes & creperie’s for a crepe or ice cream stop to re-fuel
Chatelaillion Plage – is a lovely seaside resort. There is 3km of sandy beach and a wonderful promenade to stroll along. There are plenty of activities, as well as the beach, to keep little ones busy: fun fair rides, mini golf, cafes and shops. A market is held here twice a week and it’s also home to a kite festival at Easter.
Aquarium La Rochelle – is one of the best aquariums in France. There are over 600 species on display including reef sharks, jellyfish and turtles. The aquarium is also home to a Sea Turtle Centre – four of the worlds seven species of Sea Turtles can be found on the French Atlantic Coast – which observes and cares for stranded turtles. We recommend booking tickets online to avoid the Q’s.
Yaka-jouer – is so much fun for little ones (ideal from 2 years old). There are 30 attractions set in a lovely outdoor woodland area. There are inflatables to climb, jump and slide on. Ball pits, go-karts and water based games! Watch out mum & dad you could get wet! There are plenty of places throughout the grounds to sit & relax and there is a café on site selling sandwiches and ice cream.
If you’re looking for a relaxing family holiday or a large family get together, close to many wonderful days out, with a super quick airport transfer (perfect for little ones that don’t like to travel far in the car!) you should definitely consider Boutillon Gites.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with Paul if you would like any assistance planning a family celebration & holiday or checking availability.
