The River Charente and Cognac Country
The Charente River gently meanders westwards from Angouleme
to the Atlantic at Rochefort. King Henry IV declared it “the
most beautiful river in my kingdom”.
 On
this attractive waterway you will cruise through lush countryside
where bankside vineyards, sleepy hamlets, Renaissance chateau
and Romanesque churches will attract you ashore.
The crystal clear water is perfect for swimming and fishing
and there are many spots for this, particularly in the upper
reaches bordered by lush meadows and woodlands.
 Approximately
mid-point along the Charente’s navigation are our bases
at Cognac and
Jarnac, home
to world famous Cognac houses. Distillery tours are available,
and both towns have excellent eating and shopping opportunities.
Downstream see the chain ferry at Chaniers and cruise to
Saintes, famous for its Roman arch, columns, frescoes and
statues.
 You
can head towards the Atlantic coast and the magnificent fortified
harbour of Rochefort. If you have not been boating before,
we recommend you do not cruise below Saint Savinien as the
river becomes tidal.
Upstream, the river lazily meanders around woodlands offering
many opportunities for cycling to explore the lovely villages
along its banks.
 The
river curves around Saint-Simeux, the ancient lightermen's
village, and it is easy to visit the chocolate factory at
Trois Palis. A walk around the ramparts of
Angouleme, then a quick descent back to the port where your
boat is moored.
 On
the Charente there are no lock-keepers and you will operate
the locks yourselves. You’ll find this is fun and is
not an arduous task.
Cruiser Boat Holidays
in Charente
Barge Holidays in Charente
South West
France boat bases and routes
NEW: View Charente boating holiday bases in Google Earth and get driving instructions |
