Activities

Chateau

Although not as well known for it's chateaux as the Loire valley, there are some equally interesting places here in the Charente. 

A few well worth a visit are -

• Chateau de la Rochefoucauld - Take a picnic by the river first!
• Chateau de Cognac - also the base for the Distillerie Outard
• Chateau de Balzac - built in 1600 and close to the river Charente
• Chateau de Bayers - fully restored 12th - 15th century castle

There are plenty of others worth a look too!

Plan D'eau

Inland man-made lakes and beaches which are ideal to both relax, or enjoy sports such as sailing and where the kids can play safely.

There are many of these, some quite small and secluded (one such being at Villefagnan not far from La Mirabelle), or the much larger one just outside of Angouleme. There is a lovely walk (of about 3km) around the perimeter of the lake and others through the woods, plus sailing and a large indoor pool.

Access to the sites is always free!

Canoeing and Kayaking

If this is your 'thing' then there are plenty of opportunities for all the family.

There are many areas on thge Charente or the streams and rivers that feed it to go and enjoy, if you have your own equipment. There are also many places where you can hire kayaks etc. and some of the main bases are at Ruffec, Angouleme, Montignac-Charente and further afield at Aubeterre sur Drone.

Fishing

There are over 600km of rivers for Trout and a further 900km of secondary coarse fishing rivers. There are also many ponds and lakes that allow shore fishing for pike, perch and bream.

Permits are required and available as day permits. The Fish Federation of the Charente website has plenty of information, but it is of course in French only.

Other Ideas

There are of course plenty of gardens that are open to the public, plus mills, potteries and similar places to visit whilst you are out.

This list is just a taste of what is available and we would suggest that you visit the local Office de Tourisme for more information.