This is one of those towns, that for Brits at least, people aren’t 100% sure quite how to pronounce – is the stress on the first or second syllable of Vaussais? But don’t let that put you off for one second from exploring this delightful market town. It is set in the green heart of Nouvelle Aquitaine where the local climate is second only to Provence for its hours of sunshine.
Access
You will find it on the D1 below Poitiers and above Angouleme at the half way point between these two. By car take the N10 and then the D 948 Niort-Limoges road. By train it is 2 hours from Paris on the Paris-Bordeaux line with stations at St Saviol and Ruffec, which makes it perfect for those who prefer a smaller community, yet want easy accessibility to larger places.
Activities
The area is famous for great food and wine as well as its historic Romanesque architecture as seen in the ancient churches. Not too far from the sea, yet with local water sports available including fishing and kayaking and slightly lower prices than in the coastal areas. It has a great climate, but you don’t get the scorching you might get near the sea. Nearby is the famous brandy town of Cognac, but there is plenty to do in the immediate area. Check with the local tourist office for a list of activities.( closed Wednesdays and at lunch times). As well as local hotels there are camp sites to stay while you explore. The town has all you would expect from a small French commune from the annual carnival to school puppet show, art exhibitions, horse riding, a swimming pool, youth centre and cinema – as well of course as lots of local produce for sale, especially in November at the Gastronomic Fair and the August Melon Fair.
Food and drink
ineau de Charente came about as the result of a happy accident. The story goes that back in the 16thcentury someone poured grape must into a barrel which already contained Cognac. The barrel was opened some years later and the owner discovered a marvelous brew. Pineau Charente was born. The area is close enough to the sea to benefit from lots of fresh sea food, as well as salt marsh reared lamb.
Restaurants
- Le Clovis, Rue de la Chevalonnerie , 79190 Sauzé-Vaussais , Tel no: 05 49 07 60 66, 8€
- Ferme Auberge du Puy d’Anché, Puy d’Anché , 79190 Sauzé-Vaussais, Tel no: 05 49 07 90 69, 12€
Sextant properties will be able to show you plenty of properties in the area from quite remote farms to town houses, and in whatever price range you designate. Their bi-lingual agents can take you to visit properties you are interested in. They may be able too to suggest property types that you hadn’t even thought of – just as a I write this for instance a large house in town, with land and a garage, round the corner from some of the regions great restaurants, or how about a water mill or a small vineyard? Whether this is to be a holiday home or full time experience this quiet but charming corner of France has something to offer for you and yours, including your dream home in Deux-Sèvres.