FRUITS OF THE FOREST WALK

Tucked away just outside the secluded little hamlet of Scillé below a patchwork of yellow fields and green woods is Le Moulin du Chemin. Originally a cereal mill, dating back to 1650, Le Moulin has been beautifully converted into a small private aubergewith particular appeal to walkers.

You stay as guests of Carolynn Grimaldi and Peter Roche. The accommodation is tastefully furnished, each room with its own loo/ shower, and tea and coffee making facilities. Cold drinks – soft and alcoholic – are available, free of charge, on a “help yourself” basis so guests really feel at home. Peter is a keen walker and wine enthusiast (and will happily advise on both) and Carolynn is chef de cuisine. Crusty baguettes, croissants and a mouthwatering selection of home-made jams appear at breakfast. Picnic lunches are provided or, if you prefer, you can eat at Le Moulin. Each evening is like an exclusive, yet leisurely and informal, little en-familledinner party – pool-side apéritifs followed by a delicious 4-course dinner accompanied by a variety of excellent (and free-flowing!) table wines.

The walking is easy, mostly on the flat, and with few ups and downs, and walks can be tailored to suit you. It’s a region of peaceful rolling pastures, orchards and woods, criss-crossed by ancient by-ways, crystal streams and mysterious paths, collectively known as bocage. Soft fruits, edible berries, apples and peaches can be picked from hedgerows, and sweet chestnuts, walnuts and hazelnuts provide welcome shade. The famous Loire châteaux, the old port at La Rochelle and the famous distilleries at Cognac are all within a couple of hours’ drive.

For more infomation about this holiday, including hotel descriptions, travel options and full holiday itinerary, please see our new 'further details' section.