Charente Between Vineyards and River

This riverside stop is sure to delight food lovers. The Letuffe chocolate factory, known for its handcrafted Charentais specialties, offers guided tours of its artisanal production workshop (about 1 hour) and discovery workshops for all ages,where chocolate lovers can leave with their own sweet creations.

Not just during its famous International Comics Festival! Angoulême is home to the Cité internationale de la BD, a unique trail of painted murals, and streets named after famous authors (their signs are speech-bubble shaped). From Port‑l’Houmeau on the Charente, walk into the old town to see Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the Cordeliers Chapel, the Hôtel de Ville (former Count’s castle), and more.

From Angoulême, head upriver past Sireuil to Saint-Simeux, a classified "Stone & Vine Village." A scenic 3 km walk reveals the Charente valley, river islets, washhouses, vineyards, and panoramic views over Malvy islets and Mosnac.

Located on the edge of the prestigious Grande Champagne vineyards, this lively town is in the heart of the Cognac and Pineau des Charentes region. The “Font qui Pisse” cliff, west of town, is a favorite among climbing enthusiasts. For families: swimming pool, beach (in summer), water skiing, canoeing, hiking, biking, motocross...

In the heart of the Cognac appellation on the Charente River, Graves‑Saint‑Amant is famous for Maison Brillet,one of the few remaining family-owned, independent cognac houses. While aboard your boat, you can taste their signature drink, the Belle de Brillet, a pear Williams liqueur infused with Brillet cognac.

Charming village on the Charente River A modest beach, two picturesque bridges (from the 12th and 18th centuries), a large lock, wild islets, mills, and attractive 16th–18th-century houses give Vibrac a quintessential riverside charm.

Explore the historical heritage of Bassac with a walk through the village: the Saint-Etienne Church, the 11th-century abbey and its monastic buildings, the old mill and 16th-century bridge, and the remains of the Saint-Nicolas Church and ancient cemetery.

Jarnac’s history is closely tied to cognac and its location on the Charente River. On the right bank, you’ll see the imposing Château Courvoisier and the elegant Maison Hine, the only cognac house to supply the British Crown. On the left bank, the stately white stone building of Maison Braastad reflects in the water. Those interested in modern French history can visit the birthplace of Jarnac’s most famous son: President François Mitterrand.

Stop your boat in Cognac, home to the world’s great cognac houses (Hennessy, Martell, Baron Otard, Meukow). Learn all about it at the Maison des Arts du Cognac. To combine history with your tasting experience, visit the Royal Château of Cognac,a historic monument, birthplace of King François I, and home to Baron Otard cognacs. Labeled a Ville d’Art et d’Histoire, Cognac showcases its heritage with stately homes, timbered houses, and blackened storehouses marked by the “angel’s share.”