10 unique experiences to live in Charente

Welcome to Charente! Explore with us 10 unique experiences to live that will make your stay unforgettable. Let yourself be guided through an exciting journey where each activity offers you a unique discovery of the history, nature and gastronomy of this preserved and still relatively unknown region, for the greatest pleasure of lovers of authenticity, culture and slow tourism.

1- Explore Angoulême: Capital of comic strips in France

Angoulême, creative city par excellence and Comic Strip Capital, invites you on an artistic journey on foot through its streets decorated with giant murals and its Comic Strip Museum. Discover the city's Painted Walls, living testimonies of the art of comic strips, through a superb walking tour set up by the tourist office located in the town hall. Collect your free card and set your team on a “hunt” for frescoes and trompe-l'oeils scattered throughout the city center and nearby neighborhoods. A real life-size treasure hunt that combines frescoes and heritage, fun and interactive, suitable for adults and children!

2- Travel back in time to the Château de La Rochefoucauld

Immerse yourself in history by visiting the majestic Château de La Rochefoucauld, a true Renaissance fortress. Nestled in the heart of Charente, this castle impresses with its elegant galleries, its imposing towers and its sumptuous spiral staircase. By exploring every corner of this family monument steeped in history, you will be transported through the centuries, reliving the splendor of the era and discovering the well-kept secrets of the La Rochefoucauld family. Let yourself be seduced by the architectural splendor and rich history of this Charentais jewel, where each stone tells a fascinating story. Don't miss the guided tour of the library and the castle treasure!

3- Unravel the mysteries of cognac making

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of cognac by visiting the cellars of the Grandes Maisons and small producers in the region. Discover the ancestral art of making this golden elixir, symbol of the Charentais region. As you tour the vineyards and explore the distilleries, you will learn the secrets of distillation, aging in oak barrels and blending. Exclusive tastings will allow you to savor the subtle nuances and complexity of this prestigious spirit.

4- Explore Aubeterre-sur-Dronne and its mysterious troglodyte church

Dive underground in Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, classified among the "Most Beautiful Villages in France", and discover the impressive underground church of Saint-Jean, a medieval masterpiece carved into the rock. This unique and absolutely stunning place is a fascinating testimony to human creativity and spirituality. Renowned for its gigantic dimensions – 27 meters long, 16 meters wide and 20 meters high – the monolithic church is invisible from the outside, hidden in the cliff. Without a historic portal or bedside, its access looks more like a prehistoric cave. As you explore this unusual gem, you will be amazed by the grandeur and ingenuity of this building dug into the rock, a true architectural feat of the Middle Ages.

5- Stroll through the old town of Cognac and along the banks of the Charente

Soak up the timeless charm of Cognac as you stroll through its cobbled streets and along its peaceful quays. The old town, with its half-timbered houses and mansions, transports you to a past rich in history. Strolling along the banks of the Charente, you will discover how history and modernity meet harmoniously, creating a unique atmosphere. Let yourself be seduced by the small boutiques, the welcoming cafés, and the peaceful views of the river which make Cognac an unforgettable destination for lovers of heritage and the gentle way of life in Charente. Cognac and the Charente can also be discovered along the water: the Cognac Canoë club offers canoes for hire for walks along the river and La Demoiselle, a replica of a barge, offers 1.5 hour cruises along the banks greenery of the Charente.

6- Immersion in the heart of nature: the blue lakes of Guizengeard and Touvérac

Explore the magnificent Lakes of Guizengeard and Touvérac, true havens of peace nestled in the heart of the Charente forest. These old white clay quarries offer a perfect and preserved setting for a revitalizing getaway along its marked hiking trails. As you walk around these lakes with their turquoise blue waters, you will be enveloped by the tranquility and wild beauty of the place, nature takes back its rights and little by little, a unique and fragile ecosystem develops. It is important to respect this natural cycle and enjoy the unique landscapes while leaving no impact on the fauna and flora. Swimming is prohibited. Whether you like hiking , picnicking or simply looking for serenity, the Lakes of Guizengeard and Touvérac promise you an unforgettable immersion in the heart of the preserved nature of the Charente.

7- The Charente along the water: a trip in a barge or canoe

Explore Cognac and Charente along the water! Climb aboard a barge from the barge village of Saint-Simon or from the quays of Cognac aboard the “Demoiselle” for a journey back in time. Let yourself slide peacefully on the waters of the river and admire the magnificent bucolic landscapes that pass by. Delve into the fascinating history of river activity dating back to the 12th century, when the Charente was the main transport route for goods such as salt and brandy. In Cognac, the Canoë Club also offers canoe rental for walks along the historic quays and along the banks, offering an original way to actively explore the emerald-hued waterway.

8– Taste Charentais delicacies

Discover local flavors during market visits in Cognac or Angoulême, where fresh produce and culinary specialties await you to delight your taste buds. For an authentic experience, visit local producers who sell in short circuits and enjoy local dishes: cagouilles à la charentaise, snails cooked in a white wine and cognac sauce; Grillon Charentais, a dish of pork confit with local spices; the Barbezieux hen, renowned for its fine and tasty flesh; or the charentaise galette, a crispy treat perfect for a gourmet break at any time of the day.

9- Discovering the Romanesque Churches and Abbeys of Charente

For lovers of old stones, Charente offers a true treasure of Romanesque churches and abbeys scattered throughout its bucolic landscapes and in the heart of its picturesque villages. These buildings, silent witnesses to a rich medieval history, will seduce visitors with their beauty and serenity. Among the most remarkable, the Saint-Amand de Boixe Abbey and the Bassac Abbey stand out for their majestic architecture and their historical importance. The church of Lichères, nestled in the heart of the fields, perfectly embodies the tranquility and rural charm of the region. The Saint-Pierre d'Aulnay church, listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, dates from the 12th century, the Saint-Hilaire church in Melle, is famous for its imposing Romanesque bell tower and its finely chiseled capitals or the church Saint-Martial in Confolens.

10– Enjoy the beaches of Charente

You read “Beaches” correctly. And yes! No ocean here but bucolic rivers and ponds to relax, picnic and cool off! Enjoy the idyllic bodies of water and supervised beaches like the Plage de la Guerlie in Pressignac, the river beach in Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, or the Prés de Peyras body of water in Roumazières-Loubert. These peaceful and preserved places are perfect for swimming and recharging your batteries far from the hustle and bustle.

Whether you are a history lover, art enthusiast or simply looking for peace and quiet, let yourself be seduced by this unique destination in the heart of south-west France!

Article and photos produced by Lesley Williamson for the Guide de Charente.

Did you like our article? Find more on the Guide de la Charente Blog! Follow us on the Guide de la Charente Facebook page and on our Instagram account @guidedelacharente