The Loire valley is famous for its wine and châteaux. It is an historic area of France with much to see and do. The town of Saumur, on the banks of the Loire, has a rich, cultural background and an imposing château. We are approximately 25 minutes' drive south of Saumur, surrounded by vineyards and fields of sunflowers. We offer peace and tranquillity but also an ideal starting point to explore the best that the Loire valley offers.

Orchard Cottage - sleeps 6

Poplar House - sleeps 8

Our nearest village, Bouillé-Loretz, is only 4 km (five minutes' drive) away. It has a small village store, bakery, butcher and bar.

Slightly further afield, Le Puy Notre Dame (a stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela and famous for the Bugatti car races through the streets each July), Montreuil-Bellay (with its beautiful château and church) and Doué-la-Fontaine offer a choice of restaurants.

Le Ruault (pronounced "Le Roo-oh") comprises two separate rental properties: one sleeping 8, the other 6 (although they can be rented together, making it an ideal situation for anyone looking to spend a holiday with extended family or friends). Nestled in seven acres of land, the properties are surrounded by an orchard, gardens, three large fields and a lake. The lake is fed by a natural spring and drains into a small stream (ruisseau) running through the land.

At the far end of the garden is a 12m x 6m heated outdoor pool. This south-facing area sees the sun for most of the day and the terrace allows you to relax in a tranquil environment, perhaps with just the sound of the birds and the rustling of the poplars for company. Each property also has a selection of books, games and DVDs. We also have a tabletennis table, badminton and bikes available for you to enjoy if you're feeling more energetic.

We guarantee you a great night's sleep on our new beds, all with pocket-sprung mattresses. Whether single, king-size or superking-size, they have hollow-fibre duvets, pillows and crisp, white, 100% Egyptian cotton sheets.

The Heated Swimming Pool

Tim & Emma Scott-Smith

© 2011. This website designed and created by Martin Grundy. Email martin.grundy@mac.com