Kitchen facilities
the kitchen has a washer, dish-washer, fridge with separate freezer, electric cooker and hob, double-drainer sink, microwave, coffee-machine and toaster. There is ample storage space below the fitted worktop or in the wall-cupboards. The gite is equipped with a comprehensive range of cutlery, utensils and crockery including tea-towels.

External facilities
L'Abricotier has the benefit of not one but two terraces on the West and South sides on the building. The terraces are balustraded and have hardwood patio furniture plus an essential parasol. The barbecue is built out of stone at one end of the West terrace. Right in front of the terrace is a grassy area for games and to the right is the games barn with table-football and table-tennis. The pool is about 50 metres away in a large fenced compound with a gate. Further details www.cognacvacances.com

Special features
Le Moulin de Chazotte was built sometime in the 15th century to serve a fortified chateau which stood in the grounds. The chateau has now disappeared and the mill itself was closed down in 1896. During the 1st world war the property was abandoned and stood empty for nearly a century. Surprisingly, much of the original mill machinery is still in place and has been retained as a fascinating insight into a former age. The property has vineyards to the front and woodland to the rear as well as the river Chazotte running literally underneath the mill building.
As well as the other on-site activities already mentioned there is an outdoor games area in the shady poplar wood at the East end of the property. Here is a tree swing, some kiddies swings and a badminton area. The playfield at the front is about 7 acres and ideal for outdoor pursuits.
If you would like further details or to see a record of the renovation work at the mill please look at our website www.cognacvacances.com

Local activities
The closest village to Le Moulin de Chazotte is Mesnac which has an ancient church and a well-preserved 'Laverie' where, traditionally, clothes would be washed in the river by hand! The Chateau Mesnac has a superb restaurant offering local gastronic delights together with wine, pineau and cognac all made at the distillery on site. There are also numerous excellent restaurants in lovely settings scattered all around. In summer there are numerous brocantes (bric a brac markets) as well as literally hundreds of local vineyards where you can try cognacs and pineau to your hearts content (as long as someone else is driving you back to the gite!). Cognac, Saintes, Angouleme and the surrounding towns are hosts to an extraordinary range of huge summer festivals ranging from Classic car rallies and film festivals to musical events such as the annual Blues festival in Cognac (Bluespassions). Saintes is well-known for it's wonderful repertoire of classical concerts throughout the summer.

Nearest beach: 45

Nearest airport: 90

Nearest port: 250

Nearest supermarket: 3

Location
Le Moulin de Chazotte is an historic Charentais watermill dating back to the 15th century. Set in secluded tranquility amongst the vineyards and woodlands of the river Antenne valley just North of world-famous Cognac. The surrounding countryside is gently rolling and usually traffic-free so perfect for exploring on foot or bike. In nearby Cherves-Richemont are shops and a good restaurant. The area boasts a wealth of Roman sites and ancient churches. Safe, sandy beaches or surf only 1 hour away.

L'Abricotier has a kitchen/dining area and a raised lounge with a separate toilet the the foort of the stairs. The gite is entered via an arched doorway which was originally the coach-house entrance. There is a dining area with table and chairs leading to a fully-equipped kitchen. From the kitchen, 3 stone steps lead to the lounge area which has a comfortable 3 piece suite and coffee-table. The TV has French channels and satellite. There is a hi-hi system and an extensive library of books and games. A large folder of leaflets will allow you to plan excursions for your entire stay if you wish. There is electric panel heating in each room and a wood-burning fire for winter lets. At the foot of the stairs is a toilet with a washbasin. L'Abricotier retains the original poplar wood ceiling joists with a massive timber beam and exposed stonework of the south-facing lounge wall. The windows and doors are all hardwood and double glazed. For your comfort there is a VMC air circulation system.

L'Abricotier has three bedrooms and a bathroom on the first floor. The two larger bedrooms are south-facing with glorious views across the vineyards towards Cherves-Richemont. The main bedroom has a double bed and a shower with wash-basin. The second bedroom has twin beds (which can be pushed together). The third bedroom has a pair of full-sized bunks and a lovely west-facing, arched window. The bathroom has a large shower plus a toilet and sink vanity unit. The bedrooms are light and airy with high ceilings and exposed original beams. The larger bedrooms and the landing have exposed original stonework. All plastered walls and ceilings are fully-insulated for summer coolness and winter warmth.