Visit the Charente - the department

Castles and fortifications: a leap back in time

Home to an impressive collection of châteaux and fortifications, the Charente region is a veritable showcase for the different historical periods and architectural trends that have shaped the region. Château de La Rochefoucauld, with its fascinating Renaissance façade and monumental staircase, is often compared to the Versailles of Charente. The Château de Villebois-Lavalette, overlooking the Lizonne valley, proudly displays its ancient ramparts. Roche-Courbon castle, is striking for its fusion of medieval allure and 17th-century elegance, while Château d'Ars is a remarkable example of 15th-century military architecture.

Picturesque villages in the Charente: discover their authentic charm

The picturesque villages of the Charente, with their old-world charm and rich heritage, invite you to discover and relax. Stroll along cobbled streets, admire traditional wooden or stone buildings, and be seduced by fountains, washhouses and old covered market halls. Don't miss a visit to Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in France, and home to an exceptional underground church, Saint-Jean-d'Angély with its royal abbey and museum of popular traditions, or Verteuil-sur-Charente, nestled at the foot of an imposing 15th-century castle.

Romanesque art in Charente: a cultural immersion experience

Home to Romanesque art, the Charente region offers an insight into this essential artistic movement from the 10th to the 12th century. Enjoy the sight of Romanesque churches, renowned for their sober aesthetics, structural harmony and delicate sculpted motifs. A must-see is Saint-Pierre d'Aulnay, with its 78-statue portal and five-apse apse, while Saint-Pierre d'Aulnay Cathedral is a must-see.Angoulême with its richly sculpted façade and octagonal bell tower. The church of Saint-Maclou in Ars, with its 12th-century portal and impressive bell tower-porch, and the church of Saint-Jacques in Confolens, with its tympanum of the Last Judgement, are also jewels to be discovered.

10 must-sees in Charente

1. Angoulême - Comic strip capital and medieval city

Angoulêmeprefecture of CharenteThe historic town center, perched on a rocky promontory, is a delight to behold. Bordered by medieval rampartsreveals a succession of cobbled streets, Renaissance housesand facades decorated with cartoon frescoes. Le comics museumthe Cité internationale de la bande dessinée et de l'imageand the International Festival make Angoulême one of european cultural capital.

2. Saint-Pierre d'Angoulême Cathedral

Imposing and majestic, this Romanesque cathedral from the 12th century is one of the architectural gems of thesaintongeais romanesque art. Its richly ornate sculpted portal depicts biblical scenes with rare finesse. The interior, sober and luminous, hosts concerts and exhibitions. Don't miss the view of the old town from the forecourt.

3. Cognac - City of character and legendary spirits

Cognac is world-renowned for its prestigious brandyBut it's also a heritage site. Stroll through its historical centervisit the great cognac houses such as Hennessy, Martell or Rémy Martin, and discover thecognac arts ecomuseum. Le Valois castlethe birthplace of King François I, overlooks the flower-filled quays of the Charenteideal for a stroll along the water's edge.

4. Aubeterre-sur-Dronne - An exceptional troglodyte village

Ranked among the Most Beautiful Villages in France, Aubeterre-sur-Dronne surprises with its majestic Saint-Jean underground churchentirely carved out of the rock. The village, clinging to a hillside, offers white housesand artisan workshopsand a southern atmosphere. In summer, the leisure centre on the Dronne river offers canoe, swimmingand picnics at the water's edge.

5. Château de La Rochefoucauld - Renaissance elegance

Nicknamed the "Château de la Loire en Charente", this Renaissance castle is a real gem. It combines medieval towers, Italian-style galleriesand monumental staircase. Still inhabited by the La Rochefoucauld family, it can be visited all year round. The library, lounges and masquerade costume rooms are a delight for young and old alike.

6. Cassinomagus - Chassenon archaeological park

Ancient Gallo-Roman town, Cassinomagus offers a unique site in France with its monumental ancient bathsits archeological digsand its educational workshops for children. The place offers a playful immersion in the daily life of the Gallo-Romans and hosts historical re-enactments in summer.

7. Grotte du Quéroy - Journey to the heart of the earth

Near Saint-Geniès-de-Fontedit, the Quéroy caves plunge visitors into a magical underground world. Here you can discover stalactitesand natural columnsand thousand-year-old gallerieswith guided tours for children aged 4 and over. A great family activity, ideal for hot days.

8. Water sports on the Charente river

Visit Charente riverwinding its way through vineyards and villages, is an ideal terrain for the river tourism. You can rent canoestake a cruise on an electric boat or simply walk along the coastline. towpaths. The river gives structure to the department and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

9. Château de la Mercerie and the Blue Lakes of Touvérac

Long abandoned, the Château de la Mercerienicknamed the "Versailles of Charente", has been brought back to life thanks to a participatory restoration project. It welcomes exhibitions, concertsand cultural events. Just a few kilometers away, the blue lakes of Touvérac form a protected natural site perfect for hiking or a moment of relaxation in the great outdoors.

10. Villages of character and authentic landscapes

Visit Charente is full of picturesque villages to discover, such as Verteuil-sur-Charente and its riverside castle, Barbezieux and its market, or Charmingnestled between hills and forests. These small villages embody the Rural Charentea peaceful region deeply rooted in tradition.

Unique experiences and must-do activities

Discover the Charente in a new light, with a range of unique experiences and must-do activities to suit all tastes. Whether you're looking for adrenalin, relaxation or a gourmet getaway, the Charente has it all.

Sailing on the Charente (the river): cruises and boat rentals

The Charente, which flows through the department of Cognac of the same name, is an ideal river for cruising. Choose a guided cruise to explore the landscapes, villages and historic buildings along its banks, such as the Château de Cognac, Bassac Abbey and Châteauneuf suspension bridge. For a more personal adventure, opt for the rental of a boat without a license, allowing you to cruise at your leisure through peaceful landscapes.

Whatever the length of your getaway - an hour, a day or a week - sailing on the Charente promises an unforgettable experience and a real change of scenery.

Visit Angoulème and the Cité de la BD

Gastronomy and Cognac: discovering local flavours

A land of gastronomy, the Charente region is renowned for its culinary specialities, such as its famous cognac. Visit distilleries, vineyards and cellars to taste exceptional cognacs, from VS to XO, not forgetting VSOP. You'll also enjoy Pineau des Charentes, a sweet wine ideal with cheese or desserts.

The region is rich in unique local products such as Neuvic caviar, Charentes-Poitou butter, Charente melon, goat's cheese and snails. These delicacies can be sampled in local restaurants, at markets or directly from producers.

La Guinguette de Fléac and other riverside culinary delights

The Charente also offers unique waterside dining experiences, perfect for moments of conviviality. One popular spot is the Guinguette de Fléac. This riverside restaurant serves traditional cuisine in an idyllic setting. Grilled meats, salads, pizzas and crêpes go perfectly with a selection of wines and pineau.

The guinguette is also the setting for a variety of musical, dance and entertainment events, making it the perfect place to relax and have fun, whether with family or friends. Establishments such as the Moulin de la Baine in Chaniers, the Relais du Château in Châteauneuf and the Café de la Marine in Saint-Savinien are waiting to enrich your experience on the banks of the Charente.

Nature in Charente: between land and sea

Explore the Charente and its outstanding natural setting, a true haven of peace that invites you to appreciate a wide variety of landscapes, as well as the richness of its flora and fauna. Between the marvellous expanses of land and sea, discover the islands of Charente, follow the hiking trails and cross the marshes to experience diverse and memorable moments.

The Charente Islands: Ré, Oléron and Aix

The Charente is not close to the ocean, but Charente Maritime is home to three splendid islands, perfect for those with a passion for the sea and nature.

The island of Réaffectionately known as the "white Ré", will charm you with its picturesque villages of white houses and green shutters, its sandy beaches, salt marshes and extensive network of cycle paths. Oleron IslandAix-en-Provence, nicknamed the "luminous one", offers a wide variety of landscapes, traditional fishing ports, pine forests, famous oysters and the famous Chassiron lighthouse. The island of Aix, considered the "Pearl of the Atlantic", offers a unique getaway in a car-free environment. You'll find Vauban fortifications, hollyhock-lined streets and a breathtaking view of the famous Fort Boyard.

Hiking trails and nature walks

The Charente is a paradise for hikers, with marked trails to suit all levels. These trails allow you to discover the region's rich natural and cultural heritage, including exceptional sites such as the troglodytic village of Mesnac, the Pierre Levée dolmen, the Château de Bouteville and the Anguienne viaduct. Walking, cycling and horse-riding tours are also available, for total immersion in the local flora and fauna, allowing you to observe wild orchids, butterflies, birds and deer.

The marshes and their wildlife: observation and relaxation

The wetlands near the Charente are a habitat of exceptional biodiversity. Don't miss a visit to the Marais Poitevin, a little further away in the Deux-Sèvres department, also known as the "Green Venice", an enchanted place where you can navigate canals surrounded by ash, willow and poplar trees, the habitat of numerous species such as coypu, herons, otters and frogs. Discover the Yves marsh, a nature reserve that is home to a multitude of migratory birds, including storks, spoonbills, avocets and stilts. The Brouage marsh, a former dry gulf, offers a unique panorama of the citadel ramparts and the carrelets, picturesque fishermen's huts built on stilts.

Conclusion

The Charente promises a wide range of surprises and wonderful discoveries. Whether your passion is for history, culture, nature or gastronomy, you're sure to find something to satisfy your curiosity in the Charente.

The program includes visits to emblematic sites such as châteaux, picturesque villages and Romanesque churches. Experience unforgettable moments sailing on the Charente, discovering the world of cognac or enjoying a convivial moment in a guinguette. You'll also be amazed by the natural beauty of the Charente, with its islands, hiking trails and lush green marshes. Don't hesitate any longer, plan your Charente getaway now and succumb to the charm of this multi-faceted département!

FAQ

Where to go walking in Charente?

The Charente region is full of wonderful places to wander, combining historic and cultural sites with natural wonders. Visit the emblematic monolithic church of Saint Jean, the majestic Château Royal de Cognac, or discover the world of Martell Cognac. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, cycling, fishing and golf in idyllic settings such as the Bois de Pérignac and the Jardin Public de Cognac.

Which châteaux to visit in Charente?

In the Charente, the choice of châteaux to explore is vast and varied. Château de La Rochefoucauld, often referred to as the "pearl of the Angoumois", offers a splendid example of Renaissance architecture and welcomes visitors to a historic family setting. You'll discover a monumental staircase, a rich library, salons and bedrooms adorned with frescoes and period furniture. Château de Crazannes, meanwhile, evokes the tale of Puss in Boots, with its 14th-century architecture, moat, vast park, Romanesque chapel, keep, dovecote and museum of rural artifacts.

Where to walk in Saintes, on the banks of the Charente?

Certainly, Saintes is not in the Charente department, but it offers a wide range of activities for walkers, history buffs, nature lovers and boaters on the Charente.

The city is rich in historical monuments such as Abbaye aux Dames, the Arch of Germanicusthe Basilique Saint-Eutrope and the Gallo-Roman Amphitheatre. For a more leisurely experience, opt for a stroll along the Charente, on foot or by boat, or take a river cruise on the Bernard Pallissy III. The Paléosite de Saint-Césaire offers a fascinating insight into the region's prehistoric past. The area around Saintes is also ideal for hiking and biking, including the Chemins de Saint-Jacques de Compostelle and Terra Aventura tours. For a unique experience, explore the Lapidiales, an open-air creative space where sculptors from all over the world create monumental works of art.

Where to live in Charente Maritime, near the Charente?

The Charente region boasts a number of towns that are renowned for their quality of life. Saintes tops the list, closely followed by La RochelleRoyan, and Rochefort. These towns are attractive for their charm, their well-preserved natural and historical heritage, and their efficient, well-developed transport networks.