Introducing the Clark family, the new owners of an established 19th century collection of rustic French Gites, tucked prettily away in one of the regions oldest villages.
Welcome to Les Vieilles Ombres, the Old Shades, now part of the Clark Family estate.
Already 3rd generation Nottinghamshire landowners back in the U.K., the Clarks previously ran a 400 acre farm, alongside their successful livery and book keeping business. Having always been passionate about their quality family time and well deserved breaks in the sun, Sharon, Chris and their youngest son, George decided to turn their passion for their family into a full time business. Their aim: to create the perfect environment for complete quality time with loved ones for every staying guest.
The choice of location for their business couldn’t be more perfect. The three fell in love with rural, rolling Charente and the spirit of this once bustling cognac producing residence. They set to work in September 2017, creating their dream; providing authentic French holidays for 2 to 8 people with a twist of farmers home making and a very warm British welcome.
From entering the establishment, Sharon’s creative flair becomes immediately obvious. Her choice of furniture, lighting, and the many quirky features and comfortable corners creates the perfect environment for a relaxing chill out, and plenty of opportunity to sample French country life, firsthand.
The Clarks receive you with a warm, heartfelt welcome from the minute you arrive, to the minute you leave. Nothing is too much trouble. There are so many thoughtful touches and added comfort throughout the gites, including a large hamper, filled with an array of local treats, the very highest quality bedding and towels and every possible item you could ever need for a completely stress free stay.
The Estate boasts a large family safe swimming pool, access to fully serviced bicycles to explore the area, a robust wooden children’s climbing frame and a covered open barn with access to table tennis, table football, traditional French boules and many other games for all ages.
The Clarks seem to have thought of everything. Their fabulous knowledge of the wider area has been put to good use with their comprehensive list of recommendations, comprising of not to be missed heritage sites, cognac brandy tasting chateaus,Festivals, lakes, cycle and walking trails, restaurants, aquariums and a whole host of activities and days out.
A stay at les Viellies Ombres is not just a break, it’s a truly wonderful taste of laid back French style living, in the heart of one of the most stunning corners of south west France.