Before setting off on your river cruise along the Charente, take time to explore the village of Sireuil, steeped in history. Highlights include the 12th-century Saint-Orient Church, listed as a historic monument since 1925, and the town hall, housed in a beautiful 18th-century manor. As you leave Sireuil aboard your rental boat, you’ll also spot the former tanneries, now home to a small hydroelectric power station.
Starting in the 17th century, numerous paper mills developed along the Boëme, a small tributary of the Charente. Although this industry has since ceased, many mills,such as the Moulin de Fleurac and Moulin Papart,can still be seen during walks in the area. On your river cruise along the Charente, you can moor your boat and reach the overgrown Fleurac Islands via small footbridges. Along the left bank of the Charente between Nersac and Saint-Michel, you'll spot Château de Fleurac, perched on a rocky outcrop. The village of Fleurac is also home to the Château de la Foucaudie, of medieval origin, which now houses the town hall.
Like neighboring Nersac, Saint‑Michel has a strong papermaking heritage. Visit historic mills, the 16th‑century Logis de Puygrelier built by the Laroche‑Joubert papermaking family, and the 12th‑century Saint‑Michel Church.
Beyond its renowned Comics Festival, Angoulême is home to the International Comics and Image City, a unique mural trail, bubble-shaped street signs honoring famous authors, city ramparts, museums, Saint-Pierre Cathedral, Cordeliers Chapel, and Comtal Castle (town hall). Moor at Port-l’Houmeau to begin your visit.
Labelled a “Village of Stones and Vines”, Saint-Simeux overlooks the Charente Valley. A 3 km walking loop offers views of the river, vineyards, traditional fishery huts, washhouses, and nearby villages like Mosnac.
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Close to the Angoulême Airport