Le Bourg is in the village of Mareuil in the Charente region of France. The village is surrounded by sunflowers and vineyards, whose grapes are used to make the world famous cognac such as Courvoisier, Martell and Rémy Martin, and also less well known (but equally delicious) brands such as Croizet, Tiffon, Braastad and so on.  The grapes are also used to make Pineau (an aperitif) and some excellent wines (red, white and rosé).

The popular market town of Jarnac (home of Courvoisier) is only a few minutes way. Here there are a variety of small shops, cafés and restaurants and a daily market. In the nearby village of Bourg Charente is a Michelin star restaurant - La Ribaudière.

Other nearby towns are Cognac, Angoulême, Saintes and Royan, all of which are full of history and things to do and see.

Cognac Golf course (18 holes) is about 15 minutes away. The clubhouse, restaurant and bar are relaxing and informal - membership is not required to enjoy the facilities - you just pay a daily fee. There are also tennis courts nearby. Other things to do include canoeing, fishing, walking, cycling and river trips.

Many wine, pineau and cognac producers offer tastings.

Mareuil is an hour’s drive to the Atlantic coast where there are uncrowded (even in August) sandy beaches, especially around Royan. Further afield are Futuroscope (the famous visual-image theme park), the port of La Rochelle, Bordeaux and the potteries of Limoges.

Visit the links page for more information on what to see and do in the area.