- Your destinations
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La Rochelle & Ile de Re
With their rich history and fascinating heritage sites, La Rochelle and Ile de Ré rank amongst the highlights of t [...]
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Atlantic coast
The French Atlantic Coast south of La Rochelle is packed with possibilities, whether you want a romantic break or [...]
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Marais poitevin
Second largest wetland in France, the Marais Poitevin is often referred to as France’s ‘Green Venice’, ...
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Cognac country
The name cognac is synonymous the world over with the finest French spirit...
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Futuroscope & Poitiers
Second largest leisure park in France, Futuroscope on the outskirts of Poitiers is packed with innovative activiti [...]
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- Your passions
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Lifestyle & heritage
Many visitors return regularly to Poitou-Charentes, not only to explore the stunning coastline and countryside, bu [...]
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Family friendly
There are so many fun activities for families to share in Poitou-Charentes that the question is never what to do, [...]
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Green tourism
The lush, green landscape of Poitou-Charentes is one of the best places to enjoy a nature holiday in France.
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Cycling
With more than 1000 km of marked cycle trails as well as endless quiet, safe roads, Poitou-Charentes is the perfec [...]
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Health & relaxation
Life in Poitou-Charentes has always been strongly influenced by the sea, whether for fishing, trade or recreation.
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Golf
With a choice of 20 first class courses in some stunning locations, Poitou-Charentes is a great destination for a [...]
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- Your travelbook (0)
Charente valley
The Charente river meanders for around 360 km through some of the most enchanting countryside in the Poitou-Charentes region, finishing its picturesque journey on the French Atlantic Coast at Fouras.
In the 16th century, King Henri IV described the Charente as ‘the most beautiful stream in France’ and many people still agree with him today. Between Angoulême and the Atlantic coast, it winds through rolling vineyards and past ancient water mills, through sleepy villages and beside glorious Romanesque churches.
For centuries, the Charente was busy with commercial traffic but today it’s one of France’s most popular rivers for pleasure cruising. Take a cruise boat with commentary from Cognac, Jarnac or Saintes, or pilot your own self-drive cruiser, no previous experience necessary.
The Charente is navigable downstream from Angoulême to Rochefort, a distance of around 171 stunningly beautiful kilometres. Get close to nature and watch wildlife and waterfowl from the deck. Explore riverside villages and browse colourful markets for delicious local produce – the ultimate slow food.
If cruising isn’t for you, there are plenty of other ways to explore the Charente Valley. Try driving the quiet lanes, cycling the towpath, or exploring heritage towns like Angoulême and Cognac, Saintes and Rochefort.
