Holiday rentals in Courcerac

Three iconic sites to discover in Cravans

In Cravans and the surrounding area, medieval history is carved in stone. Three major sites embody the heritage of the Saintonge region and offer an authentic insight into the region’s religious and feudal past. They reflect the strategic and spiritual importance of this area in the 12th and 13th centuries.

1. Saint-Saturnin Church in Cravans

This 12th-century Romanesque church remains a remarkable example of Saintonge Romanesque art. Its finely carved façade reveals the skill of the medieval master builders: ornate arches, intricately carved capitals and arcades that bear witness to local craftsmanship. Inside, the contemplative atmosphere exudes a sense of antiquity. This rural building embodies the spiritual life of the communities of Saintonge, far from the great urban cathedrals, yet possessing the same architectural dignity.

2. Sablonceaux Abbey

A few kilometres from Cravans stands this Premonstratensian abbey, founded in the 12th century and still home to a monastic community. The architectural complex exudes medieval harmony: cloister, abbatial quarters and refectory, all built of light-coloured stone. A visit offers a rare opportunity to walk through a living monastery, where the Premonstratensian Order has been upholding its spiritual commitment for eight centuries. The silence of the galleries contrasts pleasantly with the hubbub of the tourist routes.

3. The keep and pilgrims’ hospice at Pons

Pons, near Cravans, still bears the marks of its medieval importance. Its 12th-century keep dominates the village, a remnant of feudal power. At its foot lies the hospice for pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela, which once welcomed travellers on their way to Galicia. This dual monument encapsulates the history of a region at a crossroads: a centre of seigneurial power and a spiritual stopover on the main Way of St James.

Together, these three sites tell the story of the soul of the Saintonge region: a land where faith, power and distant trade wove the fabric of the inhabitants’ daily lives. A stay in Cravans offers the opportunity to walk in these footsteps, amongst Romanesque churches and thousand-year-old monasteries.

The ideal season to book a holiday let in Cravans

Each season transforms the character of Charente-Maritime and offers a different reason to stay in Cravans. Set amongst lush green hedgerows, country lanes and close to the estuary, the village reveals its own unique charms depending on the time of year.

Spring paints the Charente countryside in fresh new colours. The orchards are covered in blossom, the meadows turn green again and the days grow longer. This is the season when Cravans gently comes to life: the roads become busier, the terraces reopen, and the mild temperatures invite you to go for walks without having to bundle up. A holiday rental is the ideal base from which to explore the narrow lanes of the bocage and sample the first fruits of the season.

Summer is the peak tourist season. Warm, sunny days draw crowds of visitors and families. Holiday cottages and seasonal rentals then serve as a base for getaways to the nearby coast or cycling trips through the surrounding countryside. The villages of the Charente buzz with renewed energy, the markets are brimming with fresh produce, and the outdoor cafés are always full.

Autumn cloaks the countryside in shades of gold and russet. Temperatures remain pleasant, and the sun is less intense. It is a season of harvest and gathering: grapes, chestnuts and late-season fruit fill the market stalls. A holiday rental allows you to enjoy this cosy atmosphere and explore the region without the summer crowds. The nights are starting to get cooler, but the days remain mild.

Winter lulls Cravans to sleep beneath a peaceful blanket. Temperatures drop and the rain falls more regularly, but the village retains its timeless charm. Holiday rentals offer a cosy retreat for a slower-paced stay, perfect for short strolls amongst the stone houses and Romanesque churches in the area.

A holiday let remains the most flexible option: it adapts to your seasonal preferences, without the constraints of a hotel booking calendar. In Cravans, every time of year is worth a visit.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Cravans

Cravans is situated in the heart of the Saintonge wine-growing region, a place where cognac reigns supreme and where medieval heritage dots the vineyard-strewn landscape. Holiday rentals provide the perfect base for exploring these three experiences that embody the local spirit: from tastings in authentic cellars to walks or cycle rides through villages and Romanesque churches.

1. Cellar tours and cognac tastings at Saintonge wine estates

For centuries, the region has been producing one of the world’s most prestigious spirits. The Saintonge estates open their doors to show you how cognac is made and aged in these cellars steeped in history. You’ll discover the copper stills, the oak barrels and the techniques passed down from generation to generation. The tastings give you the chance to sample different vintages and learn to distinguish the subtle nuances of colour and flavour.

Address: Cravans, 17260.

2. Walking tour along the wine trails of the Saintonge

The paths criss-crossing the Saintonge vineyards offer accessible and picturesque walks. Walking at your own pace, you’ll pass through traditional villages, walk alongside carefully tended vineyards and enjoy panoramic views that change with the seasons. The signposted trails are suitable for families as well as experienced walkers. It’s the perfect opportunity to breathe in the fresh air of the Saintonge countryside and meet local winegrowers.

Address: Cravans, 17260.

3. Discovering Saintonge’s Romanesque heritage by bike

The Middle Ages left behind beautifully carved churches scattered throughout the Saintonge region. By bike, you can cover the distances without too much effort and stop to admire the Romanesque façades, the bell towers piercing the horizon and the small white-stone chapels. This ride combines gentle exercise, an immersion in architectural history and relaxation. The quiet, little-used back roads make for a pleasant and safe journey.

Address: Cravans, 17260.

Our travellers’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in Cravans

When choosing a holiday rental, the amenities make all the difference between an ordinary stay and a truly relaxing break. In Cravans, travellers are looking for accommodation that combines modern comfort with practicality. Basic facilities are no longer enough: it’s the little extras that transform a property into a true personal retreat.

• Fully equipped kitchen: being able to cook your own meals gives you the freedom to enjoy local produce and save money on eating out.
• Wi-Fi: staying connected wirelessly is essential for remote workers and for sharing photos of your holiday in real time.
• Washing machine: a must-have for families and longer stays, especially in coastal areas where clothes dry quickly.
• Efficient heating: essential in Charente-Maritime during the later months of the year, so you can make the most of your accommodation without feeling the chill.
• Air conditioning or ventilation: summers are hot in Cravans, and good air circulation ensures a restful night’s sleep.
• Terrace or balcony: a private outdoor space creates a real haven of relaxation, ideal for enjoying a coffee or sharing an aperitif.
• Parking: private or reserved parking spares holidaymakers the hassle of finding a space in small towns.
• Garden or green space: popular with families with children for safe play, or simply for relaxing in peace.
• Bathroom with a spacious shower: after a day of exploring, a comfortable shower makes all the difference.

A well-equipped holiday rental can be tailored to your type of stay, the number of people and your budget. In Cravans, the accommodation offers a wide variety of facilities to meet everyone’s expectations, whether it’s a romantic getaway or a large family gathering.

What is the average price of a holiday rental in Cravans?

In Cravans, holiday rental prices vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small property accommodating two to three people, you can generally expect to pay between €45 and €75 per night. A family-sized holiday let accommodating four to six guests tends to cost between €70 and €120 per night. More spacious or upmarket properties, designed for groups or offering premium facilities, can cost up to €150 or more, depending on the layout.

These price ranges vary depending on several factors. The location of the property in or near the village directly influences the price, as does its proximity to shops and local attractions. The length of stay plays a significant role: owners generally offer discounted rates for full weeks or long-term rentals, which can significantly reduce the daily cost. The facilities available (garden, swimming pool, car park, Wi-Fi, washing machine) also account for price differences.

Seasonality affects pricing: summer periods, school holidays and weekends often see higher prices than the low season. For a stay in Cravans offering the best value for money, be sure to check the listings in detail, read reviews from previous guests and book several weeks in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during the peak tourist months. This approach allows you to compare offers and spot the best deals without rushing into a decision.