Châteauneuf-sur-Charente is a small town coiled in a loop of the river, which makes some of the brandies this region is famous for, still using the ancient, traditional methods of producing Cognac and Pineau. In the 17th century, the barrels of Cognac and Pineau were transported on the River Charente on flat bottomed boats called gabarres, which sailed down the river to La Rochelle where it would travel on to northern countries such as England. The design of the gabarre in recent years has been modified for use as a pleasure-boat and trips are offered by several firms during the summer months.

Cognac is, of course, the home of the famous brandy and most of the cognac houses welcome visits and offer tastings. Henessey and Martel are two of the largest. You can also take a cruise on the river Charente, visit the castle of François I, see one of the many museums, art centres or monuments, or simply stroll through the old town and go shopping in the pedestrian streets in the town centre. On the place François I you will find many cafés, restaurants, shops and banks. It leads to the heart of the town via the rue d’Angoulême and the place d’Armes where you will find an impressive covered market.

Couvoissier is situated in nearby Jarnac, a smaller town and birthplace of Francois Mitterand, a former president of France, which has shops, restaurants and cafes. Jarnac also has river boat trips, canoes, walking and fishing.

Angouleme is known as the capital of ‘Bande Dessinee’, comic strips and cartoons, which adorn some of the buildings and are spectacular to see. In September the ‘Circuit des Ramparts’ takes place with vintage racing cars that come from all over Europe.

You can always eat well here and foie gras, truffles, magret de canard, oysters and a variety of cheese are typical of Charente cuisine. In addition the region produces a number of excellent wines.