Who are we?

We are Jean and Ellen and have lived since April 2017 in southwest France, between the vineyards and the Atlantic Ocean. We are the proud owners of a an old farm, which is more than 300 years old, that we have developed into 3 charming holiday apartments which are available on a self-catering or bed and breakfast basis. Before, we lived in Bobeldijk, a small village near Hoorn in West-Friesland. Ellen worked in health care, for the last 16 years as a district nurse.

Jean worked for many years in the building industry and put his experience and knowledge to good use by renovating and working on our previous houses. He can turn his hands to almost anything. The decision to emigrate to France did not come overnight. France has been our favourite holiday destination for years, because of the wonderful climate, but also because of the unspoiled villages, the atmosphere and the delicious food. It started with dreams and fantasizing. We didn’t really take it seriously. We delayed making a decision, because we both had a good jobs, a nice house and a lovely social life. So why should we change? Maybe later, after our retirement?

But still, the idea continued to itch, the adventure kept on luring us and in 2015 we finally made a definitive decision.
We knew that it had to be a location where there was a lot to do – ideal for our guests, but also for us. We too like a bit of fun and cosiness. In addition, the location had to be near a river or sea, with a little view if possible? In the Charente-Maritime we finally found our dream home. Our house is situated on top of a hill, on the edge of the hamlet of Le Petit Chenac. Moreover, it has fantastic views of the village of Chenac and the river Gironde. It is the ideal place for the holidaymaker. Peace and quiet when you want it but at the same time so much to see and explore in the surrounding area.
We would like to introduce you to our beautiful, but for many, still unknown region of the Charente-Maritime.

See you soon at Le Petit Chenac!

Jean van Tol and Ellen Molenaar