St Jean De Cole

St Jean De Cole is a medieval village that dates back to the 11th century.

It has been officially classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France (Les plus beaux villages de France) and sits on the banks of the river Cole.

A charming village with ochre coloured houses and lovely tiled roofs. The medieval bridge and the Rue du Fond du Bourg, lined with 14th century half timbered houses adds to the villages picturesque appeal.

The village focal point is the late 11th century priory, torched by the English during the 100 Year War and looted by protestants in 1569 during the Wars of Religion, it was rebuilt in the 17th century. The 12th century Byzantine-Romanesque church has an unusual plan; it forms a semicircle around the apse. Wooden carving in the choir date from the 18th century.

The village square ‘The Place de Saint Jean’ is flanked on one side by the 12th century Chateau de la Marthonie. The castle has a XVth century part made up of towers and a donjon and is quite austere and added to this is a XVIth centre wing in a softer style built over a series of arches. The chateau is open to visits in July, August and early September.

The village boasts four restaurants, our favourite being Le Temps des Mets with alfresco dining shaded by the trees & illuminated into the night. The food there is excellent and its a great way to end the day as the sun goes down.

The village also has a small tea room - The Zen cafe, is a lovely location for enjoying a coffee or tea with some light food.

There are several little art galleries in the village and we are actually next to ‘La Dame Blanche’ which is a quirky cave where local artists display their wares and La Dame Blanche herself will eagerly fill you in on their origins.

There is a small local shop for bread, milk and those items you always need at the last minute. The shop also serves beer/coffee and has a small bar area. Next door to that is the pharmacy should you need it. A local wine shop also sits in the square so you can try and buy at your leisure.

Lots of local walks and cycle tracks around and also tennis on the local courts which can be hired out through the local Marie.