Both Forge Basse and Les Brunies are in an area of rural France between Angoulême, Limoges and Périgueux, north of the river Dordogne.

The region is particularly noted for its rolling hills and valleys, and its network of rivers and lakes. Not only are there châteaux (Bourdeilles, Puyguilhem), caves (Lascaux, Villars), and attractive towns (Brantôme, St. Jean de Côle) to visit, there are plenty of activities, for anyone feeling particularly energetic. (Walking, horse riding, canoeing, go-karting, tennis, golf)

Both properties are approximately 5kms. from Nontron, a small market town with bars, restaurants and supermarkets, known originally as a centre for cast iron forging ("Notes on History of Forge Basse") and more recently for its knife and slipper industries.

Nearer to home and within walking distance of both properties, the hamlet of Savignac de Nontron (1km) has a small bar and shop for emergency supplies. ("Notes on Savignac")

As for "Food and Wine," the Perigord region is famous for good food (Perigueux food market!) and as you would expect, there are many restaurants in the area to suit all pockets, ranging from the top ranking Moulin de l'Abbaye at Brantome to the excellent value Hotel de France at St. Pardoux..

Wine is incredibly cheap from the local cave or supermarket, but for the more serious we are an hour and a half drive from Bergerac, St. Emilion or Cognac.   ("Typical day of winetasting")