Poitou-Charentes, Charente, Bonnes, France

A44469JR16 - Featuring three properties, all lovingly renovated and refurbished to a high standard by the current owners, this village ensemble, within just a few metres walk of the beautiful river Dronne, offers a substantial family home with excellent business potential.

There are three properties included in this attractive ensemble;
- A four bedroomed home with large family kitchen/dining exposed stone and wooden beams, spacious living room with radiators, wood burning stove and two bathrooms,
- A three bedroomed home (with the potential for five) with a large family kitchen, with plenty of dining and living space, wood burning stove, reversible air conditioning, a huge family living room, two bathrooms and a large cellar.
- A double bedroomed self-contained gite with period features, exposed beams, wooden flooring, wood burning stove, kitchen and bathroom.

All three properties feature spacious and airy living, as well as character features including wood burning stoves, exposed stone, timber beams and hardwood flooring whilst benefiting from modern conveniences such as double glazing and eco friendly features. In one of the properties there is a new reversible heat-pump (capable of both heating and cooling) and in the other, a new heating system for the radiators.

There are numerous outside areas including grass lawns, a large barn, plenty of trees, and the fabulous new 10m x 5m swimming pool ideal for enjoying our long summers as well as shady spaces for relaxed dining, entertaining and generally making the most of a more relaxed pace of life.

150 photos and floor plans available on request

Bonnes in the Charente is a quintessential French "hidden gem." While its neighbor, Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, gets all the fame for being one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France," Bonnes offers a much more relaxed, authentic experience while still being just a 5-minute drive from the action.

Here’s why it's a fantastic place to live:

1. The Riverside Vibe
Bonnes is defined by the Dronne River. It’s arguably one of the most beautiful rivers in the region—crystal clear and surrounded by lush greenery.
Active Fun: You can rent canoes or kayaks to paddle downstream. The stretch between Bonnes and Aubeterre is particularly scenic.
Wild Swimming: There are several "secret" spots along the banks where locals go for a dip to cool off in the summer.
Nature Walks: The village is a hub for hiking trails. One of the best is the Circuit de la Fontaine du Loup, which takes you through meadows and along the river cliffs.

2. The Food & Social Scene
For such a small village, Bonnes punches way above its weight when it comes to characterful places to eat and drink:
La Bonnes Adresse: This is your classic, high-quality French bistro. It has a beautiful terrace and is famous for its seasonal menus that highlight Charentais produce.
Guilty Lounge: This is a total surprise—an American-style saloon/lounge.
There is also an épicerie (grocery store) in the village.

3. Living History
Chateau de Bonnes: This 16th-century castle is privately owned, but it typically opens to the public from July 20th to August 31st. It's remarkably well-preserved and offers a glimpse into the region's aristocratic past.
Eglise Saint-Pierre et Sainte-Radegonde: A beautiful Romanesque church with Renaissance additions. Even if you're not a history buff, the intricate stone carvings on the facade are worth a look.

4. Local Life & Events
Brocantes & Vide-Greniers: The village regularly hosts car boot sales (vide-greniers), which are social highlights. You can find everything from vintage French linens to antique farm tools.
Night Markets: During the summer, the area comes alive with marchés nocturnes. You buy food from local producers (cheese, duck, wine), sit at long communal tables, and eat under the stars with live music playing.

5. The Perfect Base
If you live in Bonnes, you’re in the center of a "Golden Triangle":
Aubeterre-sur-Dronne: Just 2km away, home to a massive subterranean monolithic church carved into the cliff.
Périgord Access: You’re right on the border of the Dordogne, so you can easily do day trips to the famous markets of Ribérac or the castles of the Périgord Vert.

In short, Bonnes is "great" because it’s peaceful enough to feel like a retreat, but social and active enough that you’ll never be bored.