Le Couvent des Cordeliers
France
The Location
The historical village of Verteuil is dominated by its famous fairy-tale castle whose foundations date from 1080 and where many French Kings stayed. The ancient site of Le Couvent was founded in 1471 by Jean de la Rochefoucald, Lord of Verteuil. Within the grounds of Le Couvent is the vaulted Church of St François and Chapel of St Gilles once the burial site for the Noble family of Jean de la Rochefoucald, Lord of Verteuil. In the dining area of Le Couvent there is an authentic fresque dating back to the 15th century.
The historic port of La Rochelle is nearby, as is the picture perfect Ile de Ré, best known for white sandy beaches. The unique canal system of Le Marais Poitevin (Green Venice); the famous cinematic theme park of Futuroscope; the valleys of the Vienne and Charente rivers are close.
For wine lovers the region is ideally situated mid way between the Loire valley and the vineyards of Bordeaux and the famous Cognac Houses are only a short drive away.
Sporting activities : there are exceptionally beautiful, and reasonable golf courses at Les Forges, Mazière, Cognac, Angouleme and Poitiers. There are facilities for fishing, canoeing and horse riding close by, and the gently undulating countryside makes it ideal for cycling.
There are also some outstanding regional specialities in the village shops and restaurants; foie gras, duck, the wonderful array of fresh sea food and the excellent local cheeses.
Places nearby
Regular village markets provide local specilaities. Verteuil market is every Sunday 9am -1pm
The Chateau of Verteuil can be visited in the summer and is 4 minutes walk from Le Couvent
The medieval village is a charming place to explore, with its fairy-tale Château and picturesque river banks. The annual Angoulême International Comics Festival takes place in June and its influence can be seen all over this small city.
Summer abounds with brocantes and bric-a-bracs in the Charentais countryside.
From the charming town of Cognac to the rolling vineyards of Bordeaux, wine connoisseurs and the bon vivants alike will enjoy wine tasting tours and restaurants in this part of Charente.
Former home of the French navy at the source of the Charente is a fascinating town with countless places to visit.
Second largest wetland in France, the Marais Poitevin is often referred to as France’s ‘Green Venice’.
A fishing village in the Middle Ages, La Rochelle is famous today for its beautiful Vieux Port, renowned seafood restaurants and historic shopping streets.
