About us
We are blessed to have found this place and pour our hearts and souls into the renovations, yet we keep the Belle Époque characteristics. Katja loves finding little treasures at the flea markets and brocantes to use in creating a “back in time” experience for her guests, when pampering was the norm. Hans finds his work in the forest satisfying and even meditative, with sawing, chopping, felling, and winching wood.
We still pinch ourselves that we were able to have this dream home and rich life… and it is such a joy to be able to share this with you!
- Rue du Pont L’Ecuyer 9, 16500 Confolens, France
- +33 (0)782637847
- info@valrocas.com
Villa Val Rocas
The mansion Val Rocas is a well-known establishment in Confolens, built in 1903 by a prominent optometrist who built this house for his family home and practice.
Downstairs was the waiting room and his office, as well as a small conservatory so that he could better see his patients’ eyes in daylight. The pump house by the river ran water up to the tower to provide running water for his Belle Epoch house. He also installed a convection fireplace, which was quite progressive for the turn of the century. The family lived on the second floor, and maids and workers lodged on the third. An amazing handcrafted wooden spiral staircase allowed servants to move about unnoticed. Views from this tall house are spectacular, particularly from the bay window balcony in the dining room as well as the master bedroom.
We have tried to maintain the beautiful elegance and style of this Belle Époque home. Although the walk into town takes only 5 minutes, somehow the serene sounds of nature and vistas overlooking the valley and woods let you enjoy the peace and privacy of the countryside.
about
Katja
Born in Switzerland, raised in America, thirty years in Holland and now a proud member of the Confolens community!
Leaving the hustle and buste of city, she is loving her new life surrounded by beauty, working the land to grow fruits and vegetables that actually taste like they should as well as gathering herbs and plants from the forest to create lovely, tasty dishes. Did we mention she is also a “well-renowned” cook having taken part in the Dutch cooking program Herrie aan de Horizon with Herman ten Blijker? She is presently developing her brand Nutritious & Delicious.
about
Hans
Born and raised in the Netherlands. Hans works as a consultant on large building projects and ping pongs back and forth between France and Holland. Aside from caretaking the forest at Val Rocas, and all sorts of renovations, his big passion is charcuterie and preservation. The basement of the house, his laboratory, frequently smells curious with his vats of home-made sauerkraut and kombucha or batches of self-made black garlic from which he makes wine then vinegar.
About
Zeus
Zeus is our little Portuguese Podengo who turns 8 this summer.
A hunting dog by race makes him exceptionally happy to chase lizards in the yard and to guard against mice inside!
