Charente: From Abbeys to Gabarres

This picturesque village, labeled “Villages of Stone and Vines,” is perched high above the Charente Valley. From the village, a short 3 km hike leads you through the banks of the Charente, vineyards, the Essacs fishing huts, old washhouses, and the village itself,offering breathtaking views over the river, Malvy Islands, and the nearby village of Mosnac.

At the edge of the Grande Champagne vineyard of cognac and pineau, this town offers both gastronomy and adventure,climbing the “Font qui Pisse” cliff, plus outdoor fun like swimming, waterskiing, canoeing/kayak, hiking, mountain biking, and moto‑cross.

A picturesque Charente village featuring a small beach, two historic bridges (12th & 18th centuries), large lock, river islets, mills, and charming old houses from the 16th–18th centuries.

This riverside village once thrived on barge building. Follow a local heritage trail to learn about its history at the Gabariers’ House, admire old graffiti on the Gabariers’ Wall, and see La Renaissance, a faithful replica of a 19th-century cargo boat.

A charming riverside village with historical landmarks including Saint-Étienne Church, an 11th‑century abbey complex, a 16th‑century mill with its bridge, and the ruins of Saint-Nicolas Church and its old cemetery.

Cognac land and François Mitterrand’s birthplace This town thrives alongside the Charente. On the right bank, admire Château Courvoisier and the refined Maison Hine,supplier to the British Crown. On the left bank, the white-stone Maison Braastad reflects in the water. Fans of contemporary French history will want to visit the childhood home of ex-President François Mitterrand.