Lakeside Farmhouse in the Sunny Vendee
France, La Chapelle-Thémer, Pays de la Loire
Pets
- Cat(s)
Dates
- 18 Dec 2026 to 29 Dec 2026 (Only 1 sitter has applied for these dates)
About this assignment
We are looking for a reliable couple (non smoker(s), at least not in the house) to look after our house and animals for a 10 day period from the 20th of December whilst we head off to the UK for Christmas We would prefer it if our house sitters could arrive for 2 days before we leave i.e. arrive on the 18th, with us leaving on the morning of the 20th, to get up to speed. We will be returning on the 29th of December, but if staying a little longer either end of our dates would help, we would be happy to accommodate you, but we do have friends coming out for New Year's Eve.
What responsibilities are required of the house sitter
Feeding and litter tray cleaning for the cats and most importantly (as far as they are concerned) fussing of said cats. Keeping the house clean and tidy.
If you enjoy gardening, any work done would be greatly appreciated, but other than watering if needed is not essential. Equally if you enjoy doing a bit of maintenance work or ground clearance, we can accommodate that as well, but again not a requirement.
What are the good features of the property and location
Our 18th century farmhouse is set in a spectacular and peaceful valley location with 2 lakes and approximately 1.5 Hectares of land, including a large veg patch and orchard area. Whilst the house needs updating, it is very comfortable, with all mod cons, including UK TV, WiFi Broadband internet access, central heating and a wood burner.
Our neighbours are very friendly and if you wish to practise your French they would be most accommodating. We also have English friends nearby who would be able to help out if you had any problems.
What does the house sitter need to consider before applying for this assignment
The principal consideration is to have your own transport, this is rural France and not everything is accessible by foot or cycle, the nearest supermarket is 10 minutes away by car.
Can I bring my own pets?
No, sorry.
Last updated:
10 August 2026
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Testimonials
A grand sit in the Vendée
Stephen and his wife are warm, charming, and great cooks! There home is lovely. The kitties are lovebugs and the chickens...great eggs! Will sit for them ANYTIME! Just the best.
Anastacia, France, March 2020
House sitting in Vendée
We house sat for Steve & Jane for two weeks in their beautiful home in the Vendée region of France. We looked after their 6 chickens, one rabbit and two lovely kittens. We could not have asked for a better experience or for lovelier home owners. We would gladly house sit again for them!
Emily, December 2017
An amazing house sitting experience
Not only were Jane and Steve so welcoming and friendly, the kittens/cats were adorable and were almost like dogs following us around everywhere. Such a beautiful property. We had such a wonderful time looking after their place and animals. The chooks were no problem, feeding them in the mornings and locking them away of an evening. The four wild ducks we fed each day were like domestic ducks. We harvested some of the wonderful tasting vegetables they had growing in their fantastic vegie garden. As well as collecting Walnuts from their huge trees and just wandering around their vast property. We managed to see around the Vendée region on days when the weather was great. Did a few great walks. Fell in love with La Rochelle and Ile de Re as well as a few other places like Pouzauges and Coulon. The best part was sitting on the terrace each evening partaking of a drink or two, working out our next day's itinerary. The cats would sit on our laps and we would all watch the beautiful sunset. Jane and Steve made us feel so comfortable in their home and we would recommend their property and animals as a pleasure for anyone interested in house sitting in that part of France.
Wendy, France, October 2017
Thank you Stephen
Steve and Jane were very hospitable hosts, making us very welcome and taking the time to show us around their property. The property is delightful and looking after the various animals was a pleasure. Our only regret is that we were not able to stay longer to watch the baby rabbits grow up from the little balls of black fur. We would be very happy to return. Thank you Steve and Jane
John, July 2017
Two happy wanderers.
We thoroughly enjoyed our time looking after Stephen and Jane's house. We found them to be very hospitable and made us feel very much 'At home'. The garden is delightful, and looking after the rabbits, ducks, chickens and partridges was fun. Juliet particularly enjoyed harvesting strawberries on a daily basis. We would have been very happy to have spent more time with them, but other commitments were too pressing. However, we will take up the offer of returning whenever we get the chance.
John, May 2017
Intelligence, generosity & organisation
Jane and Steve,great hosts, give you much more than you expected to facilitate your stay and it's a relief that benefits to both parties. It's a pleasure for the mind to watch their way of life and you could learn a lot for your own. Bandit, the cat is sweet and easy. The little poultry house is a fun experience with a pleasant surrounding (rural lake and vegetable garden). The wild ducks are waiting every morning to get some...attention. We felt we had a lot in common, that's the best way to make friends. Since then, we kept in touch to share ideas and informations.
Marion, January 2017