Confolentais and Charente Limousine: Rural charm and verdant landscapes

Confolens, a story through the centuries

The epic of Confolens dates back to medieval times, when it was created by the lords of Chabanais. Then separated in two by the Vienne, the town was located on the old Roman road which linked Angoulême to Bourges via Argenton. Over time and particularly in the ^12th century, it was surrounded by fortifications before freeing itself from the supervision of the Chabanais in the ^15th century.

Its development began with the construction of the market halls which made it possible to trade with Angoumois, Saintonge and Limousin, followed by the construction of 3 religious buildings on the outskirts of Confolens: the Convent of the Récollets, the Convent of the Clarisses and the House of Sisters. of Charity. In 1848, it was the turn of the bridge over the Vienne to see the light of day, while the construction of public buildings continued.

Discover the history of Confolens and its rich heritage by traveling the heritage circuit, a route offered by the town hall at any time of the year.

Confolens, a pretty labeled town

The town of Confolens is the capital of Confolens and Charente Limousine, but not only that. It is also a witness to history, carefully preserving its buildings, many of which are classified as Historic Monuments.

It is then labeled Small City of Character!

Buildings, landscapes, views and know-how are treasures found in the town of Confolens. Its numerous historical sites and the old bridge spanning the Vienne allow the Consolentais to obtain the Label Pays d'Art et d'Histoire, a quality label that the inhabitants are proud to present.

Le Consolentais, some must-sees not to be missed

Charente Limousine is full of surprises to discover throughout your stay. Here is a summary of the essential sites to visit:

• The Baths of Cassinomagus, an ancient archaeological site which is among the best preserved in Europe. Located in Chassenon, they immerse you in Gallo-Roman daily life through a free, guided or costumed tour.
• Maison Maria Casares located in Alloue is a real cultural meeting center in the heart of a 5-hectare park, on the banks of the Charente. Shows are organized there all year round.
• The Gauls of Esse take you on a unique Gallic adventure within a completely reconstructed village for a unique immersive experience.
• The lakes of Haute-Charente, the Mas Chaban lake and the Lavaud lake offer you a sporting or relaxing moment depending on your desires. Bird watching, swimming, water activities or relaxing, the choices are varied.

Set off to discover a region rich in nature, heritage and landscape.

Limousin specialties

Charente is a perfect destination for foodies who like to discover new flavors. A breeding territory thanks to its green and abundant nature, Charente-Limousine treats you to local meats such as:

• Limousin farm-raised veal, a production method that offers tender, fine and refined meat that melts in the mouth. Know-how and patience are necessary to obtain this high-end product.
• Poitou-Charentes Lamb, an exceptional label which benefits from an IGP and strict regulations with specifications which authorize only 7 breeds for production. Breeding is a real know-how which allows you to obtain meat with a unique, mild and fragrant taste.

Another Limousin specialty unrelated to livestock farming is tourtière, a potato pâté cooked with cream for a delicious creaminess.

Entertainment in Confolentais

Let yourself be carried away by the good atmosphere of the cultural events and musical events organized in the north of Charente!

• Night show at the Château de Peyras in summer
• The Confolens International Festival between dance and world music in August
• L'Imprévu Festival in Montemboeuf in September
• The Franco-British Film Festival in Champagne-Mouton in August
• Gathering of historic vehicles in Champagne-Mouton in August
• The Festival of Threshing in Montemboeuf in July

Markets in Confolentais

Grab your baskets, we’ll take you to the markets!

• Market in Alloue on Thursday morning
• Market in Chabanais on Thursday morning
• Market in Chasseneuil-sur-Bonnieure on Wednesday and Saturday morning
• Confolens market on Wednesday and Saturday morning
• Massignac market on the ^2nd Sunday of the month
• Montemboeuf market on Thursday morning
• Roumazières-Loubert market on Sunday morning
• Saint Claud market on Friday morning

Many farmers' markets are also organized throughout the summer in the Confolentais.

Coming to Confolens

To reach the Consolentais, there is nothing complicated. Several modes of transport are possible to stay in Charente-Limousine:

• By car, you can take the departmental RD948 or the RD951. Confolens is located 65 km from Angoulême, 70 km from Poitiers and 55 km from Limoges.
• By bus, one line departs from Angoulême and another departs from Luchapt to reach Confolens.
• By train it is possible to arrive at Angoulême, Poitiers or Limoges before joining Confolens by car or bus.

The Blablacar application is also an economical and ecological option for getting around.