The famed home of cognac, rural Charente is a beautiful south-western French region. Dotted with historic villages and characterised by rolling vineyard-clad slopes and leafy, riverside communities, this part of France has long attracted outdoorsy travellers, laid-back holidaymakers and keen foodies. Travel to Charente to soak up a slower pace of life — even in the charming hubs of Cognac and Angoulême — and to unwind in an array of excellent B&Bs or country house hotels. Fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets, our pick of the best places to stay in Charente offers the perfect springboard to start planning your trip.

Heritage aficionados and eager people-watchers should base themselves in Cognac or Angoulême. Both offer imposing historic buildings, lively markets, museums and eateries. The Musée d'Angoulême and the Jardins Public de Cognac are highlights. The Angoulême International Comics Festival is also enormously popular. Set on the banks of the Charente River, both communities promise lovely riverside walks, canal boat trips, fishing and kayaking opportunities, too.

Immerse yourself in understanding cognac, with tours and tastings at the surrounding vineyards or ‘houses’ of the most illustrious brands — Martell, Henessy Camus, Remy Martin and Courvoisier included. Follow portions of the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route, go cycling and horse riding, or enjoy friendly games of tennis and restful spa afternoons at some of the best places to stay in Charente.

The Best Places to Stay in Charente

For an Intimate Hideaway

• Château de Maumont is a magnificent 16th-century residence on the banks of the Touvre River. Set within 2 hectares of gardens, this is an immensely relaxing holiday base, with five rustic rooms featuring four poster beds and free-standing tubs. Intimate and a brilliant wedding or party venue.

For Families or Groups

• Château de l’Yeuse is an elegant hotel near the Charente River, just outside Cognac. Expect rooms with space for little ones, a superb spa, swimming pool and gourmet restaurant. Go hiking, cycling and horse riding in the area. Fun for guests of all ages; groups of friends will appreciate the convivial atmosphere and the cognac lounge.
• Château de Lerse offers romantic rooms and suites in a 12th-century residence, but its charming cottage sleeps six and is a dream retreat for families or groups of friends. Spend your days hiking, cycling, swimming or feasting on regional produce at the restaurant. Idyllic.
• Le Relais de Saint Preuil is a former coaching house with a friendly, laid-back feel. The largest four suites offer space for up to five guests, making it a great choice for a family holiday. Share access to the swimming pool, sauna, tennis court and leafy gardens, or speak to the knowledgeable owners about family-friendly activities in the area.
• Domaine du Chatelard has just 12 relaxed lakeside rooms with period furnishings and lake or garden views. Swim in the pool, play tennis on the hotel's court or enjoy delectable Italian fare at the restaurant. A great value choice for foodies or families.

For Grown-Up Glamour

• Hôtel Chais Monnet offers a fabulously luxurious stay in Cognac. Perfect for romantic couples and well-heeled travellers, this glamorous hotel has an indulgent spa, two restaurants and a selection of elegant suites and private apartments. An exceptional choice in Cognac.
• Hôtel Ligaro has sleek, sophisticated rooms tucked within a traditional townhouse in the centre of Jarnac. Pick this place for the chic, contemporary feel and the excellent gourmet restaurant — which offers a fantastic array of cognac.

For Rural Luxury

• Domaine des Etangs is an exquisite historic château with adjoining cottages set in stunning rural surroundings. You'll find enormous suites with exposed stone walls and beamed ceilings, top-notch gourmet cuisine, spectacular shared spaces and an impressive programme of art and wellness events. Also a magical wedding or honeymoon venue.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Charente?

• Fly to Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport or to La Rochelle Airport and travel to your destination by car or bus. Alternatively, take a high-speed train from Paris; you'll be in the Charente region in 4 hours.
• The Charente area is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit during the summer for the warmest weather (around 22-26°C). For fewer crowds, travel in the late spring or early autumn. Do be aware that some hotels will be especially busy during the grape harvest.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Cognac.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Charente-Maritime.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Charente