Le Moulin de Chazotte
The main property seen from the lawn and showing the mill building on the right. Le Moulin de Chazotte was not inhabited for over 70 years until 2003 when the restoration began. As a result the plumbing, electrical and sanitation systems are all to modern specifications although great pains have been taken to retain the original character and splendour of this historic building.
 Le Moulin de Chazotte
The main property seen from the lawn and showing the mill building on the right. Le Moulin de Chazotte was not inhabited for over 70 years until 2003 when the restoration began. As a result the plumbing, electrical and sanitation systems are all to modern specifications although great pains have been taken to retain the original character and splendour of this historic building.
 Le Moulin de Chazotte - seen from the millpond
This shows the mill and the two mill-races which run right underneath the building. Within the mill there is still much of the original machinery remaining from the day the flour and walnut milling ceased in 1896
 The pool - showing the solar shower
The pool is open from May to October depending on the weather. It is salt water so no problems with chlorine allergies. There are sunbathing terraces with ample sun-loungers all round the pool.
 The pool - looking towards the house
The pool has been set some 50m from the house so there are no disturbances from
excited children! The
safety fence and locking gate are for the protection of youngsters. The changing room is not really necessary with the gites being so close but it is useful for storing the large selection of inflatables which guests inevitably like to bring with them!
 Le Moulin de Chazotte - a lovely rural setting
To the south of Le Moulin is a panoramic view over the vineyards to the village of Cherves-Richemont with its bar/restaurant, bakery, small supermarket and post-office.
 Le Moulin de Chazotte - a young neighboar!
Our nearest human neighbours are about 1k away so we are in a naturalists paradise. Not only deer and wild boar are frequently seen but there is a fantastic variety of bird life. Amongst the birds seen, so far, are kites, buzzards, hobbies, hoopoes, parakeets, redstarts, herons, egrets, golden orioles, green and lesser-spotted woodpeckers, and a host of smaller and common birds.
 Le Moulin de Chazotte - things to do.
Our own little river, the Chazotte is great for canoeing. We have a large canadian canoe which is normally available for our guests to use.
 Le Moulin de Chazotte - socialising
There is a large communal barbecue area at the rear of the mill which our guests often use to get to know eachother.
 Le Moulin de Chazotte - the boss!
We have two gentle and friendly cats. This is Bola who is well over 17 years old but still full of mischief.
 Le Moulin de Chazotte - Cycling for softies
We have half a dozen or so bikes which may usually be borrowed but if you are keen cyclists we recommend that you bring your own (at least for the children). The gently rolling terrain is perfect for cycling.
 Le Mouin de Chazotte - golfing
We have golf clubs on site for careful use. More serious golfers bring their own clubs and warm up on the playfield before nipping off to any of the many golf courses in the area.
 Le Moulin de Chazotte - sunflowers at dusk
Photographers have an absolute field day with both wildlife and landscape photos - particularly in the atmospheric light of dawn and dusk.
 Le Moulin de Chazotte - the good life
Local grapes produce some wine but mostly Cognac and Pineau which is a delicious blend of Cognac and grape juice (rather like sherry and drunk as an apéritif in the same way).
 Le Moulin de Chazotte - The liquor of the Gods
This Cognac is distilled and bottled at our local Chateau de Mesnac where you can buy direct after a divine meal in the restaurant.
 Le Moulin de Chazotte - Local restaurants
There are many, many superb local restaurants including our neighbour at Le Chateau de Mesnac which is well within walking distance.
 Le Moulin de Chazotte & Chateau Chesnel
Chateau Chesnel sits on the hill facing the mill. There have been historical links between the Chesnel and Chazotte families going back to 1382. The Countess de Roffinac is the current owner of the Chateau and offers personal guided tours in English for our guests. This includes a tour of her distillery and tastings afterwards in her little shop - not to be missed!
 Le Moulin de Chazotte - Local architecture
At the local town of Saintes are many fascinating ancient buildings dating from the Roman occupation through the middle ages. For example there is a Roman amphitheatre and Arc de Triomphe. There are also a number of splendid churches.
 Le Moulin de Chazotte - seen from Cherves-Richemont
The mill is the tiny white blob in the midst of the vines and woods.
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