Luxury Lakeside Gite with Stunning Views, Exclusive Carp Fishing - Les Croix, Charente Reviews

No matter how many times we visit our enjoyment does not diminish. This is our 14th week. Beautiful Charente countryside, lovely weather local coffee shops, picnics on the bank in the evenings, the fishing and of course Jon and Bailey's company and hospitality. This trip saw 13 x 30's in the net, but also some of the young upcoming commons that fight like hell, one 23lb'er had me convinced I was about to net a 40 ! Julie enjoyed the pool during the hot afternoons and enjoyed the company of Bailey, no doubt due to the supply of sausages ! Already counting down to 2024 !

Johh and Julie Sullivan 9th - 16th September 2023

We have been comong to this superb venue since 2016 and the place never disappoints. This trip we started off with 28C in the daytime, then the weather changed and the following week we were down to 6C overnight thje trip ended with rain but warmer again. Theweather always has an effect on the fishing of course, this time the number of fish caught was amazing with someincredible specimens in amazing condition. A visit as usual to our favourite restaurant Le Castel de Glane in St Junien, and a day visit to the world war II memorial village of Oradour sur Glane, a very emotional visit but for anyone with even a passing interest in history, this place is an absolute must. As always thanks to Jon for his knowledge, skill and support and a special mention for aour sausage munching friend Bailey. The next trip in April 2024 is already booked and will certainly be something to look forward to during the dark winter months.....52 fish caught including 2 x 50's.

Jim and Helen Nicholson 7th - 21st October 2023

This was our first vist here and it's been the best week we have had in france. The venue is second to none, very clean and beautifully presented. My sone is very keen on carp fishing, he caught 30 fish in total and beat his PB several times so he is very happy.The fish are immaculate, as is the whole venue. My daughter loved the pool and our dog Milo also had a lot of fun. Jon was a lovely host and nothing was too much trouble. He made us a delicious curry which we all loved. We cannot wait to return to this stunning place, so thank you for a fantastic week.

The Phillips family 12th - 19th August 2023

Our first visit as a family and a truly wonderful one ! My husband and I first visited 8 years ago and he had been back twice since with his dad. I was somewhat anxious about combining a fishing holiday with 3 kids aged 3, 4 and 7 but my anxiety was unwarranted as we had the most amazing week creating special memories and enjoying lots of quality time together, the kids loved the outside space, feeding the goats and of course the swimming pool. My son is obsessed with fishing and was very happy to spend mornings and evenings with his float rod catching roach, rudd and small carp, whilst my husband was fishing for the large carp. Fishing form 07:00 to 10:00 and again from 19:00 to 22:00 worked well for us and was productive on the fishing front, and allowed plenty of time for days out exploring. My husband had an amzing week catching 48 carp form singles right up to 51-08 ! Am amazing week's fishing and one that will not be forgotten. Jon was a great host and made us all feel very welcome. The kids adored Bailey and were very sad to leave. We shall definitely be returning. Thanks for a great week.

The Blakeburn family 5th - 12th August

Back in this wonderful part of France for the first of our two trips this year. Les Croix is as magical as ever, golden orioles very much in evidence, their tropical song echoing in the surrounding woodland. Also spotted roe deer, fox, red squirrel as well as the abundance of other bird species, and an added bonus of great tits nesting directly outside the gite door ! Very unpredictable weather, torretial rain, thunderstorms, sunny at times but with a bitterly cold northerly, challenging conditions for sure but despite this some fine specimens were caught. Thank you Jon for another great trip and to Bailey for his company and sausage hunting. Les Croix never disappoints and we are looking forward to our October visit.

Jim and Helen Nicholson 6th - 20th May 2023

My 9th trip to Les Croix, and our 5th visit as a family. As always it has been extremely enjoyable all round with fine weather 22-30 C, accommodation spotless (love the new layout and changes) Jon and Bailey's company and finally the fishing with 17 carp caught to 43-00. Son Beau also had a great time on the pole catching 37 roach along with 12 commons and 3 mirrors all around 3-6 ounces in weight. Caroline also caught her first ever fish - a 3oz roach ! Lots of day trips including a visit to the stunning Lac de St Pardoux. The dogs also enjoyed their holiday ! Thank you very much Jon and Bailey and we will see you again next summer.

The Faulkner family 15th - 22nd July 2023

A perfect time to visit Les Croix - nature at its best, foliage and f lowers blooming ! This is our 13th week at the venue. The gite is even better this year with lots of changes - great job Jon ! Thank you foir making our stay so enjoyable with your attention to detail in all areas around the venue.

On the fishing front I have been blessed with the spring challenge of the unpredictable. Finding feeding fish has been more difficult than on previous trips, my usually reliable spots have been devoid fo carp on this trip ! A long cold winter followed by a cool spring has seen the fish in the margins trying to find some warmer water. 15 carp caught with some nice 30's to 38-06. Looking forward to our next visit in September.

John and Julie Sullivan 29th Pril - 6th May 2023

Another wonderful week - our 11th visit to this marvellous venue. We have seen the lake and surroundings mature beautifully since we first came in 2009. the emergence of the spring greenery along with the sights and sounds of the abundant wildlife including cuckoos, woodpeckers and the frog chorus is a joy. Jon, as always has been an informative and friendly host, accompanied by Bailey who is always adept at finding any boilies that have been dropped ! The food package was delicious with a nice variety of freshly prepared dishes with plentiful portions. Superb fishing as always, all fish in fabulous condition, Jon's dedication to maintaining the pristine fish stock is evident. The gite as always superb. Cosy and welcoming after a day on the bank. ALready booked for 2024.
Ray and Andy Hassall - 22- 29th April 2023