Set in the stunning Bocage region of the Vendée in western France, Gîte Sous les Étoilés is a wonderful retreat in tranquil surroundings with easy access to a range of activities. Whether you want to kick back and relax or explore this beautiful part of France this is a wonderful location.
We're part of the commune of La Chapelle aux Lys, which is designated as 'Village Étoile' which means at night we have very dark skies and spectacular views of the stars.
We fully renovated the gîte in 2022/23, it has three double bedrooms, a spacious sitting room, beautiful kitchen, dining room to seat six and outside terrace with BBQ facilities. You'll also find a selection of games, maps of the local area and up to date information and ideas on what you can do once you've arrived.
The kitchen is fully equipped with all you need so you can settle in as soon as you arrive. There's a cooker with induction hob and oven, microwave, toaster, fridge freezer, dishwasher and washing machine. You'll also find basic essentials such as kitchen towel, tea, coffee, sugar, dishwasher and laundry tablets etc. to get you set up from the off.
BEDROOMS
There are three double bedrooms, one with ensuite and a main bathroom both with walk in waterfall showers. You'll find crisp white bed linen, memory foam mattresses and chic contemporary styling.
There is capacity for 8 guests, with three bedrooms (all doubles), with one also including a sofa bed suitable for a further 2 people. They are finished with crisp white bed linen and towels and hairdryers are also provided.
THE POOL & GARDEN
Set over one acre, the garden is a haven of tranquility. There is room to hide away, play games, explore the wonderful array of flora and fauna, the flowing ponds and fishes. Lose yourself and laze your day away.
The garden is an acre set in wonderful countryside surrounded by rolling fields, the only visitors are the occasional cow poking its nose over the hedge. The pool is 10m x 5m with sun loungers, with a decked area for sunbathing, BBQ's and general chilling.
THINGS TO DO
Vouvant
Vouvant is labelled as Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, Petite cité de caractère. It's aprox 15 minute drive
Mervent
Head here for beautiful woodland walks, or to the lake for paddle boarding, kayaking or a picnic on the lake shore
Fontenay Le Comte
With markets on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, FLC is an historic town with cathedral, bars and restaurants
Cycling and Triathlon
Talk to us if you'd like to use your break to explore the many cycle routes, run trails and open swimming. The Vendee is one of the best regions in France for triathlon events - and training!
Visit our Cycling and Triathlon page.
Puy de Fou
Puy du Fou is a historical theme park in Les Epesses, it's around 45 mins away from here and well worth a visit!
La Rochelle
La Rochelle is a coastal city, a centre for fishing and trade since the 12th century.The old town has half-timbered medieval houses and Renaissance architecture, including passageways covered by 17th-century arches
Beaches
If you can tear yourself away from the pool, La Tranche Sur Mer is 1hr 20mins away, and there are many beautiful beaches in this region
Île de Ré
Stunning island near La Rochelle - hire some bikes and enjoy the gorgeous beaches and (allegedy!) the best ice cream in France
We can also offer you our advice and suggestions on what you might like to do, just let us know if you'd like help planning your stay. If you're interested in a more sporty holiday, then we have 20 years experience in triathlon and know all the local races and hot spots for cycling, open water swimming and run trails.
GETTING HERE
The gîte is in a small hamlet called Salvaison - which directly translates as 'Salvation' - and once you've visited you'll understand this is true in every sense. The nearest village of St Hilaire de Voust just 5 mins drive away has a village shop selling all the essentials and of course bread and viennoiserie for breakfast.
The nearest airports are either La Rochelle or Poitiers, both of which are 80km away, which is around an 1. 20 minute drive. Nantes is 120km away.
Driving travel time from Calais is c. 7 hours, and 3 hours if you arrive in Saint Malo.
We have purpose built dedicated parking on site.
RATES & AVAILABILITY
For rates and availability please head over to our listing on Airbnb HERE
You can contact us directly with any queries on the form below.