The surrounding area

The surrounding area
	Saint Bris des Bois is one of three villages in the Vallée du Coran. This little valley shelters the Coran, a stream which is fed by a dozen or so springs and is named after the strong current that follows heavy rainfall. Its exceptional flaura and fauna are such that it has been classified as a zone Natura 2000 (similar to the UK’s SSSI). In the heart of the Saintonge Romane, the wonderful churches have retained the charm of their12th and 13th Century origins and beautiful stonework. Numerous foopaths will lead you to discover and appreciate not only nature, but also a particularly rich rural heritage, including l’Abbaye de Fontouce, an abbey founded in 1111. Situated in the Fins Bois region of Cognac production, the landscape of oaks and chestnut trees is punctuated by numerous vineyards The Logis de l’Astrée is an excellent departure point for walks or bike rides through the countryside, with its hidden treasures to be discovered around every bend. Louveloss situated at Saint Césaire (2 mins from the Logis de l’Astree) offers mountain bikes for half or full-day rental. At Le Musée des Arts du Cognac in Cognac, you will learn all about this exceptional product, which is known and appreciated through the World. And to discover more of the secrets of its creation, visit the producer, Bernard Boutinet, to taste his Cognac and Pineau des Charentes. The Paléosite, at Saint Césaire, the most important centre in Europe for the understanding of prehistory, will take you back to the origins of Man. Saintes, capital of the Roman Gaul province of Aquitaine, has remains of this period including an Amphitheatre and the exhibits in the Musee Lapidaire (Roman and other statuary), as well as the Abbaye aux Dames and the crypt of Saint Eutrope, which are witness to its further development during the Middle Ages. Boat trips can be taken on the Charente River. Situated 25 minutes’ drive from the Logis de l’Astrée, St Jean d’Angély, with its Abbaye Royale, its markets on Wednesday and Saturday, and its half-timbered houses dating from the Middle Ages, is a charming place to visit. La Rochelle is a one-hour drive fom the Logis de l’Astrée; Royan and the Atlantic coast, 45 minutes; as is Rochefort, with its Corderie Royale and the house of the writer, Pierre Loti. In the charming and tranquil Saintonge, so near to the Atlantic Ocean and the home of Cognac and Romanesque art and architecture, one moves to the rhythm of the seasons, and the rhythm of ones desires ...

Gîte et Chambres d'Hôtes Le Logis de l'Astrée - Sophie Boutinet Mangeart - 17770 Saint Bris Des Bois - Tel. 05.46.93.44.07 - email : smangeart@terre-net.fr