France Boating Holidays - Charente
Charente and Cognac Country - Cruiser Boats Route Map
Base Information
Suggested Cruises from our Jarnac cruiser base in Charente
One week round trip from Jarnac
Jarnac - Angouleme round trip
Charente fluviale
Upstream of Jarnac the impressive silhouette of Bassac Abbey basks in the sunlight. Discover fine Romanesque art at the church in Chateauneuf-sur-Charente. The river curves around Saint-Simeux, the ancient lightermen's village. Indulge in chocolate at Trois Palis with a tasting at the chocolate factory. Hike up the slope to the ramparts of Angouleme, admire the view, and perhaps trace the history of the famous Charente paper industry in the local museum.
88km 30 locks 22hrs round trip cruising time
Jarnac - Rochefort round trip
Charente maritime
Downstream from Jarnac is Bourg-Charente with its famous restaurant and the magnificent facade of the chateau of St Brice. No visit to Cognac is complete without a tour of one of the brandy distilleries. Further downstream 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.
186km 12 locks 33hrs round trip cruising time
Please note that hours suggested above are approximate. The River Charente has no lock keepers so you operate the locks yourself.