As one of the four departments that make up the former region of Poitou-Charentes, it is now part of the Nouvelle Aquitaine region. Charente may have once gone unnoticed, lost within the Charente Valley until recently. Taking charge, Charente (number 16) now proudly upholds a reputation for its unspoilt countryside with fields of succulent grapes and beautiful villages. Traditional French rural life has spread through the department, offering an authentic Charentais lifestyle; your neighbours can be seen in the town squares on market days as a morning of shopping turns into a few glasses of wine and a lazy afternoon. Tourism in Charente takes a modern twist; the department is now home to a growing film, graphic design and media industry, not to mention its unofficial title as the French capital of cartoon and comic strips. Bande dessinée, as it’s called in France, has become a highly regarded art form with the capital Angoulême renowned as the “Capital of the Image”.
Angoulême: A Town Steeped in History
Perched on a high plateau above the Charente, Angoulême holds the town’s heritage through walking tours, an eclectic collection of museums and panoramic views of the remparts. Paper mills once dominated the charming cathedral city, and although its historic heart will not be forgotten, it’s known today for so much more than just its unfashionable paper and slipper industries.
Celebrations and Events in Angoulême
The calendar of Angoulême has two main dates of interest to its visitors and residents; in January, the International Comic Festival is held in town. In September, the roads become a race track of vintage cars, part of the Circuit des Remparts. The old town is a natural hilltop fortress, and as you head along the magnificent ramparts on the southern side, you will find the Romanesque Cathedral of Saint Pierre, dating back 900 years. The history of conquests in the sixth century in Angoulême is reflected in its architecture as the industrial powerhouse has changed significantly throughout the years. Today, Angoulême shares its beauty, history, and lively atmosphere with the friendly locals, and there are hardly any tourists in sight.
The Charente River: A Scenic Connection
Connecting the department’s most notable cities, Angoulême and Cognac, is the River Charente, where you can enjoy boat trips and cruises sailing through the countryside. As you pass the local vineyards, you are reminded that Charente produces a wealth of delicious food and drink. Along with the brand names that dominate the industry, local grape growers welcome you to discover their hidden charms as you learn the true history behind their tipples.
Cognac: The Jewel of Charente
Cognac, a charming town in southwestern France, is renowned for producing the world-famous Cognac brandy. It boasts a rich cultural and architectural heritage, including the stunning Château de Cognac and the elegant 19th-century Saint-Léger Church. The town offers a vibrant cultural scene, diverse culinary offerings, and charming markets and boutiques. With its rich history and lively cultural scene, Cognac is an enchanting destination. And, of course, no visit would be complete without a tour of one of the town's many Cognac distilleries.
Nature's Embrace in the North
Towards the department's north, the landscape drastically changes, sweeping vineyards and rolling fields are replaced by mysterious forests and flowering meadows. The high ground and mountains that rule as the heart of France are called the Massif Central and are known for their adventurous walks. Numerous rivers and lakes slice the thick forests.
Where Harmony meets Nature
Throughout Charente, the towns and villages have one thing in common: people visit and live here to enjoy a harmonious life surrounded by nature’s gifts. The outdoor activities and excellent golf courses add to the perfect Charente lifestyle.
Key Information about the Charente
- Main City/Prefecture: Angoulême
- Nearest Airport: Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (approx. 120 km)
- Population: Around 352,000 (as of the latest census)
- Area: 5,956 sq. kilometres and 2,300 sq. miles
- Landmark: Château de La Rochefoucauld, a Renaissance castle with impressive architecture and history.
- Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 1.2 million, drawn by Cognac vineyards, scenic countryside and the International Comics Festival in Angoulême.
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