Barge holidays from Cognac
base in the Charente
 Decribed
by Francois I as "the prettiest brook in my kingdom",
the Charente is one of France's most beautiful rivers. It
is ideal for a peaceful holiday in rural surroundings.
At Cognac,
where museums, history, gastronomy and industry are all devoted
to its well-known brandy, the renowned Hennessy cellars dominate
the two round turrets of the Porte Saint Jacques which leads
to the old town and the chateau.
 From
Cognac upstream
pass the magnificent facade of the chateau of St Brice
and perhap moor at Bourg-Charente
with its excellent restaurant.
Jarnac is also famous for its old buildings
and its distilleries - popular is a guided trip around the
Courvoisier factory on the waterside. The river curves around
Saint-Simeux, the ancient lightermen's village.
Indulge in chocolate at Trois Palis with
a tasting at the chocolate factory.
 The
Charente navigation upstream ends at Angouleme,
where the the historic town, with its cathedral and magnificently
restored old houses, stands on a rocky spur high above the
valley. The town today is famous for its strip cartoon festival.
Downstream from Cognac
follow the course of the river past old mills and water meadows
edged with trees. see the chain ferry at Chaniers
and cruise to Saintes, famous for
its Roman arch, columns, frescoes and statues. From St
Savinien to Rochefort the river
becomes tidal and extra care is needed.
With a length of 170km and just 21 locks, of which 18 are
unmanned, the tranquil Charente is a delight to cruise. It
is also an excellent river for fishing.
See also Cruiser
Boat Holidays in Charente and Area
Guide to Charente
Return
to South West France Map |
