Where to swim in Charente

Treat yourself to a refreshing break by the water during your vacation in Charente!

5 top spots for bathing, swimming and relaxing by the water in Charente

When the heat sets in in Charente, there is no need to travel a hundred kilometers to reach the Atlantic Ocean. The Charente is full of small, idyllic and unsuspected oases of freshness, ideal for swimming, where water and nature combine harmoniously for our greatest happiness: the Charente river with its numerous shaded arms, lakes, ponds, developed beaches and small watercourses. Whether you want to take a dip in the water, picnic on the banks, enjoy the fresh air or laze in the sun, here is our selection of 5 heavenly spots in Charente where you can enjoy aquatic pleasures with family or friends.

• 1. Swimming in the Dronne in Aubeterre-sur-Dronne
• 2. The Prés de Peyras lake in Roumazières-Loubert
• 3. The lakes of Haute-Charente: Guerlie beach in Pressignac
• 4. Rejallant area: An oasis of tranquility
• 5. Vindelle beach

1. Swimming in the Dronne in Aubeterre-sur-Dronne

Nestled in the south of Charente, Aubeterre-sur-Dronne is classified among the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”. This charming village with its medieval character and picturesque streets is bordered by the Dronne River, a sub-tributary of the Dordogne. A few minutes walk from the lower part of the village, the Aubeterre-sur-Dronne leisure center offers a heavenly place to swim in the peaceful river, and enjoy its pretty golden sand beach, equipped and supervised in season. The breathtaking view of the village adds to the charm of the green banks. The children's play area and the beach volleyball court complete the attractiveness of the site. Picnic tables are set up on the grassy and shaded area. To eat in season, the campsite's bar, snack bar and grill is open throughout the day and offers friendly evening entertainment such as karaoke and concerts. A canoe-kayak rental base is available just upstream for trips along the water.

2. The Prés de Peyras lake in Roumazières-Loubert

Formerly clay quarries , the Prés de Peyras are today superb bodies of water nestled in nature. The leisure center offers a lake for fishing and pedal boat rides, as well as a small artificial lake with crystal clear waters, shallow and surrounded by a sandy beach dedicated to supervised swimming in summer. The green environment is perfect for a day surrounded by nature with picnic areas, games for children, a beach volleyball court, a snack bar and a refreshment bar. A fitness trail comprising around ten sports modules surrounds the body of water. Free parking is also available on site, facilitating access to this enchanting place.

3. The lakes of Haute-Charente: Guerlie beach in Pressignac

In the heart of the valleys and bocages, two artificial lakes, Lavaud and Mas Chaban, regulate the course of the Charente river. These lake spaces offer a myriad of activities such as hiking, fishing, boating and swimming. Guerlie beach, located on the shores of Lake Lavaud, is a true haven of peace. Surrounded by abundant greenery, this fine sand beach is ideal and shallow for swimming and is supervised in summer. On site, picnic areas, games for children, mini-golf, a snack bar and various water sports such as canoeing and sailing.

4. Rejallant area: An oasis of tranquility

The Rejallant area in Condac, near Ruffec, is a unique place crossed by several small arms of the Charente, linked by picturesque bridges which connect small islands bordered by water. The banks and a magnificent weir offer a beautiful, peaceful swimming area in the water heated by the sun. It’s a dream setting in the shade of huge trees, perfect for a walk, a picnic or a swim. The ever-present sound of water adds a calming touch to this lush natural setting. The superb restaurant Le Réjallant offers traditional Charente cuisine with a terrace overlooking the river, offering an exceptional dining experience taking advantage of the wild Charente landscape.

5. Vindelle beach

Just twenty minutes from Angoulême, Vindelle beach offers an ideal green setting for sharing moments of relaxation and pleasure with family or friends. In summer, swimming is supervised to ensure your safety. A point of sale for snacks and drinks is at your disposal to satisfy your little hunger and a play area for the children! A large car park is available (-1m90 height) to park near the leisure center.

This selection of idyllic places for swimming in Charente is not exhaustive. Many other places frequented by locals and more secret await to be discovered by the more adventurous. However, it is essential to remain cautious: the currents of the Charente can be treacherous and it is always preferable to swim in supervised and secure places. Enjoy the beauty of Charente while ensuring your safety and that of your loved ones!

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

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