About Charente
Experience the magic of the Charente river on a houseboat vacation
Discover one of the best places to visit in France with a river cruise along the stunning Charente River. Lined with pine trees, rolling vineyards, and peaceful meadows, this waterway offers one of the most picturesque settings for boat rentals in Europe. Known for its world-famous cognac, elegant châteaux, and warm hospitality, the Charente Valley is perfect for a relaxing Europe trip. Whether you’re enjoying a slow-paced vacation or planning unforgettable French holidays, a houseboat adventure on the Charente is like stepping back in time.
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Interactive map of Charente
Le Boat base
Point of interest
No license or experience required
Never handled a boat? You don’t need a license or prior experience to be the captain of your own houseboat. Our base teams will show you everything you need to know before you set off safely on your houseboat cruise.
Our customer reviews on Charente
See all reviews >Outstanding staff and service. Very happy with our choice of location.
We really enjoyed living on the river surrounded by stunning nature.
Hired the Horizon 4 and it did not disappoint. Great condition with everything we needed on board.
3 communities were fun and enjoyable but most of the other stops were empty and utilitarian
The river Charente is a beautiful waterway, especially the further upstream you go. There is so much wildlife, and the water is very clean. There are not many commercial operators on the river, and nor are there many private boats, the reason being is that it is not linked to the French waterway system. This means that moorings are not overcrowded and you rarely need to queue for locks. Jarnac is an easily accessible base, and you have the choice of taking the easy option, with fewer locks downstream, or the prettier way upstream, but the locks are harder.
Very interesting area. Plenty to see and do and good facilities
Lovely little town but we didn’t spend long there.
Large well laid out boat on a beautiful river. plentiful moorings both in villages and towns. Large supermarkets close by one with mooring stage. Cognac and Saintes have hook up available
We were unlucky that one of the locks was broken so couldn’t travel upstream until our last two days. Other than that it was wonderful
Excellent experience. Team was helpful, boat was great and river was excellent
Charente is the perfect boating region for…
Nature Lovers
The Charente River is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. As one of the best places to visit in France, it offers calm waters and unspoiled countryside. Spot herons, kingfishers, and swans while cruising through this scenic area. Charente river cruises are ideal for travelers looking to relax and reconnect with the natural world.
History & Heritage
The Charente Valley is rich in historical charm. Explore Angoulême’s St. Pierre Cathedral, known for its impressive ramparts. In Rochefort, visit the Maritime Museum, or head to Saintes for the Archaeology Museum. A river cruise in Europe through this region is a unique way to experience French culture and architecture, especially for travelers interested in the country’s fascinating past.
Wine Tasting
The Charente is world-famous for cognac, making it an ideal stop for wine and spirits lovers. With Charente boat hire, you can cruise through this scenic region at your own pace, stopping to tour the Courvoisier factory in Cognac or visit the Musée des Arts du Cognac. If you’re planning your French vacation in August, don’t miss the Good Food and Wine Festival in St. Savinien to add delicious depth to your Europe trip itinerary!
Fishing
Fishing along the Charente River is popular with travelers seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. The river is well-stocked with carp, pike, roach, chub, and black bass. Jarnac is especially known for excellent fishing spots near the quay. This region is perfect for a houseboat fishing holiday, offering plenty of quiet corners and scenic locations for picnics and casting a line.
Family
Families will find plenty to enjoy on a boat rental vacation in the Charente. Kids can ride bikes along safe, shaded towpaths or paddle canoes at the Angoulême watersports base. The comic book museum in town is also a favorite. For something different, try a traditional gabarre boat ride in St. Simon, a fun and educational outing for all ages
Why choose Le Boat for your Charente boat vacation?
Discover the charm of southwestern France with Le Boat on a self-drive cruise along the peaceful Charente River – one of France’s best-kept secrets.
Perfect for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike, a Le Boat vacation lets you captain your own fully-equipped cruiser with no license or boating experience required. Glide past sun-drenched vineyards, ancient Roman ruins, and riverside villages like Cognac and Jarnac, where world-famous brandy houses invite you in for tastings. Enjoy the relaxed pace, moor wherever you choose, and dine al fresco on deck or at local cafés. With over 50 years of experience and unbeatable support, Le Boat offers an easy, immersive way to explore authentic France. If you’re craving a unique, slow-travel experience in the heart of French wine country, Charente with Le Boat is your perfect escape.
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Select your route
Cruising 9hrs eastward lies the bustling, fortified city of Angoulême. To the west you’ll pass the historic city of Saintes (7.5 hrs from Jarnac) until you reach St-Savinien (10.5 hrs from Jarnac). Here we recommend you stop and travel by train if you wish to visit the smart, coastal town of Rochefort for its amazing seafood. If you book a one-way between Jarnac and Angoulême, you can travel in both directions and just about see the whole region in a week’s cruise. However, on a return cruise from Jarnac, we would advise heading in just one direction if you wish to cruise at a comfortable pace.
Travel connections
- 30km Angoulême (ANG)
- 118km La Rochelle (LRH)
- 122km Bordeaux (BOD)
- 1.4km from Jarnac station
Sounds interesting? Find out More
Travel connections
- Limoges: 96 km
- Poitiers: 115 km
- Bordeaux: 129 km
- Nantes: 280 km
- Angoulême : 700 m
Sounds interesting? Find out More
Cruising 9hrs eastward lies the bustling, fortified city of Angoulême. To the west you’ll pass the historic city of Saintes (7.5 hrs from Jarnac) until you reach St-Savinien (10.5 hrs from Jarnac). Here we recommend you stop and travel by train if you wish to visit the smart, coastal town of Rochefort for its amazing seafood. If you book a one-way between Jarnac and Angoulême, you can travel in both directions and just about see the whole region in a week’s cruise. However, on a return cruise from Jarnac, we would advise heading in just one direction if you wish to cruise at a comfortable pace.
Travel connections
- 30km Angoulême (ANG)
- 118km La Rochelle (LRH)
- 122km Bordeaux (BOD)
- 1.4km from Jarnac station
Sounds interesting? Find out More
Travel connections
- Limoges: 96 km
- Poitiers: 115 km
- Bordeaux: 129 km
- Nantes: 280 km
- Angoulême : 700 m
Sounds interesting? Find out More
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Marcus has been an integral part of Le Boat’s sales team for several years, so knows our destinations and fleet very well. After many cruises with us he particularly loves our stunning Irish and Italian destinations!
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Itinerary suggestions
Our boating vacations allow you the freedom to stop when you want and take each day as it comes. However, you might like to be guided by one of our day-by-day suggested itineraries, complete with estimated cruising times and restaurant recommendations. You can follow it religiously or just use it for ideas – whatever ‘floats your boat’. Please bear in mind that our itineraries are just suggestions. Cruising times are estimates and access to waterways, attractions and restaurants are all subject to availability at time of cruising.
Route suggestions
To help you get an idea of how far you can travel in the time you have, here’s a selection of routes to and from our bases in this region. You dont have to stop at all the places listed or follow the route exactly. So long as you return your boat to your end base by the date you’ve booked – you’re free to enjoy your cruise however you like. For a comfortable pace, allowing you time to regularly stop and explore, we’d recommend an average of 2 – 4 hours cruising each day.
Please note: Any route suggestions and itineraries on the Le Boat website are examples only and any of the suggested potential routes, attractions, restaurants, towns, villages or sections of the waterway included in them may not always be open or accessible at time of cruising.
= Click the arrow icon on each route suggestion, to flip the 'card' and reveal more details.
Jarnac RETURN via Cognac & Saintes
Jarnac RETURN via Cognac & Saintes
Jarnac RETURN via Cognac & Saintes
Jarnac RETURN via Cognac & Saintes
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Overview
Distilleries hum with activity, filling the air with the sounds and aromas that have made the town of Cognac famous for eons. You’re in the heart of beautiful Charente! On the river, lush vineyards, fields ablaze in colourful sunflowers, imposing castles, and picturesque villages create an ever-changing tapestry from your sundeck — the essence of a Charente boat rental in France!
Top highlights:
- Jarnac’s old town and crypt
- Walking along the canal banks of Chaniers
- The Basilica of Saint-Eutrope in Saintes
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your holiday:
- Jarnac: Jarnac is a welcoming town. Take time to discover the city and its history and to learn about the powerful Chabot family of barons.
- Bourg-Charente: In this quiet yet brilliant place, you will find a natural and pristine town surrounded by vineyards. Downtown, you may discover the beautiful old castle and its green gardens.
- Cognac: Cognac is a dynamic and historic city. Walk the old winding streets lined with timbered houses, and explore the green gardens next to the city hall. Cognac is famous for its delightful brandy, which you can enjoy tasting while you’re here.
- Chaniers: Welcome to Chaniers, a pleasant town to stop and visit. You will enjoy visiting the Church of Saint-Pierre, whose foundation dates back to the eleventh century. Take time to walk along the canal banks; they are absolutely beautiful.
- Saintes: Saintes is the second most important city in the area. It’s a city full of history with magnificient monuments like the basilica Saint-Eutrop. Enjoy visiting the old pedestrian streets where you will find both good views and good restaurants.
The Arts and History Cruise
The Arts and History Cruise
The Arts and History Cruise
Jarnac RETURN via Angoulême
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Overview
Head eastward on the River Charente to beautiful villages with cafés, historic sites, museums and eclectic shops. The 1,000-year-old abbey in Bassac and 12th-century St. Pierre Cathedral in Angoulême reflect the rich history of the region, which is always apparent in the narrow streets and the ancient market squares. Charente boating in France ushers you into incredible pastoral beauty.
Top highlights:
- Jarnac’s old town and crypt
- Saint-Sigismond in the heart of Saint-Simon
- Spirit tasting in Châteauneuf-sur-Charente
- The fresh ‘Chocolaterie Letuffe’ in Trois-Palis
- Angoulême’s cultural history – be sure to visit the International Centre for Comic Strips and Images!
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Jarnac: Jarnac is a welcoming town. Take time to discover the city and its history and to learn about the powerful Chabot family of barons.
- Saint-Simon: Saint-Simon is a little peaceful town where you will enjoy the fresh air. Downtown, take your time and walk along the winding streets; discover the old church Saint-Sigismond.
- Châteauneuf-sur-Charente: In the heart of an area known for great spirits like Cognac and Pineau, historic Châteauneuf-sur-Charente welcomes you. Visit church Saint-Pierre and dine in one of the fine restaurants downtown.
- Trois-Palis: Trois-Palis is a peaceful town where you will enjoy walking, and perhaps visiting the old Romanesque church, Notre Dame. The old mills have been replaced by a chocolate factory; its shop may be open.
- Angoulême: Also called the ‘Wall of the Canal du Midi’, Angoulême is a great city which has seen many wars over the centuries; evident in the many fortifications you’ll see around town. It is now a charming neighborhood of restaurants, galleries and boutiques. Downtown, discover many monuments like the impressive and marvelous City Hall, which is a former castle.
The Romanesque Cruise
The Romanesque Cruise
The Romanesque Cruise
Jarnac RETURN via Cognac & Saint-Simon
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Overview
A cruise to and from the pretty town of Jarnac, you’ll explore the famous town of Cognac and pretty town of Châteauneuf-sur-Charente. In Cognac try some of the Cognac that has made the town famous at one of the local trading houses. As you walk around the town you’ll even notice the roofs and facades are covered in a black fungus resulting from the evaporation alcohol into the air – known poetically as the ‘angels taking their share’. In Châteauneuf-sur-Charente you can admire the St. Pierre Church, a jewel of Romanesque architecture, as well as the bathing area of ‘Les Bain des Dames’.
Top highlights:
- Jarnac’s old town and crypt
- Saint-Sigismond in the heart of Saint-Simon
- Spirit tasting in Châteauneuf-sur-Charente
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Jarnac: Jarnac is a welcoming town. Take time to discover the city and its history and to learn about the powerful Chabot family of barons.
- Bourg-Charente: In this quiet yet brilliant place, you will find a natural and pristine town surrounded by vineyards. Downtown, you may discover the beautiful old castle and its green gardens.
- Cognac: Cognac is a dynamic and historic city. Walk the old winding streets lined with timbered houses, and explore the green gardens next to the city hall. Cognac is famous for its delightful brandy, which you can enjoy tasting while you’re here.
- Saint-Simon: Saint-Simon is a little peaceful town where you will enjoy the fresh air. Downtown, take your time and walk along the winding streets; discover the old church Saint-Sigismond.
- Châteauneuf-sur-Charente: In the heart of an area known for great spirits like Cognac and Pineau, historic Châteauneuf-sur-Charente welcomes you. Visit church Saint-Pierre and dine in one of the fine restaurants downtown.
The Cognac Cruise
The Cognac Cruise
The Cognac Cruise
Jarnac RETURN via St-Savinien
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Overview
A town made prosperous on a rich trading heritage, Jarnac’s waterfront is still lined with elegant white houses. Start your cruise here with a trip to one of the town’s two large cognac trading houses, before setting off to St-Savinien. Along the way take in the town of Cognac, for yet another cognac tasting perhaps, and the ancient town of Saintes, home to the Germanicus arch dating to 18-19 AD and a Roman arena. When you arrive in St-Savinien you’ll discover a picturesque village with a charming church and plenty of activities for the kids – including a lake with model ships!
Top highlights:
- The castle and green gardens of Bourg-Charente
- Fresh brandy tasting in Cognac
- Kayaking in Port d’Envaux
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation
- Jarnac: Jarnac is a welcoming town. Take time to discover the city and its history and to learn about the powerful Chabot family of barons.
- Bourg-Charente: In this quiet yet brilliant place, you will find a natural and pristine town surrounded by vineyards. Downtown, you may discover the beautiful old castle and its green gardens.
- Cognac: Cognac is a dynamic and historic city. Walk the old winding streets lined with timbered houses, and explore the green gardens next to the city hall. Cognac is famous for its delightful brandy, which you can enjoy tasting while you’re here.
- Chaniers: Welcome to Chaniers, a pleasant town to stop and visit. You will enjoy visiting the Church of Saint-Pierre, whose foundation dates back to the eleventh century. Take time to walk along the canal banks; they are absolutely beautiful.
- Saintes: Saintes is the second most important city in the area. It’s a city full of history with magnificient monuments like the basilica Saint-Eutrop. Enjoy visiting the old pedestrian streets where you will find both good views and good restaurants.
- Port d’Envaux: Along the Rue des Armateurs, some magnificent residences attest to the importance of this small village. You can visit the 13th century Château de Panloy (900m from the mooring) and take a guided tour to view its tapestries, its wood panelling and its hunting gallery. By the river there’s a sandy play area which has a safe area for swimming, as well as refreshments and kayak rent – a nice place for a lunchtime picnic and to while away the afternoon. If you’re feeling fit, it’s worth taking a walk or a cycle to Les Lapidiales, an old quarry located just 1km out of town. Sculptors from all around the world have carved effigies out of the rock.
Angoulême to Jarnac via Saintes
Angoulême to Jarnac via Saintes
Angoulême to Jarnac via Saintes
Angoulême to Jarnac via Saintes ONEWAY
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Overview
This week-long cruise offers an ideal blend of delving into the fascinating history of Charente towns, whether by walking the narrow streets and ancient market square of Angoulême or marveling at Saintes’s iconic Germanicus Arch (dating from 18-19 AD), and immersing yourself in the breathtaking Charente landscape. Glide along the river, where lush vineyards, fields ablaze with colorful sunflowers, grand castles, and charming villages create a constantly changing tapestry from your sundeck!
Top highlights:
- Angoulême‘s cultural history – be sure to visit the International Centre for Comic Strips and Images!
- Spirit tasting in Châteauneuf-sur-Charente
- Saint-Sigismond in the heart of Saint-Simon
- Fresh brandy tasting in Cognac
- The Basilica of Saint-Eutrope in Saintes
- Jarnac‘s old town and crypt
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Angoulême: Angoulême is a great city which has seen many wars over the centuries; evident in the many fortifications you’ll see around town. It is now a charming neighborhood of restaurants, galleries and boutiques. Downtown, discover many monuments like the impressive and marvelous City Hall, which is a former castle.
- Châteauneuf-sur-Charente: In the heart of an area known for great spirits like Cognac and Pineau, historic Châteauneuf-sur-Charente welcomes you. Visit church Saint-Pierre and dine in one of the fine restaurants downtown.
- Saint-Simon: Saint-Simon is a little peaceful town where you will enjoy the fresh air. Downtown, take your time and walk along the winding streets; discover the old church Saint-Sigismond.
- Cognac: Cognac is a dynamic and historic city. Walk the old winding streets lined with timbered houses, and explore the green gardens next to the city hall. Cognac is famous for its delightful brandy, which you can enjoy tasting while you’re here.
- Saintes: Saintes is the second most important city in the area. It’s a city full of history with magnificient monuments like the basilica Saint-Eutrop. Enjoy visiting the old pedestrian streets where you will find both good views and good restaurants.
- Jarnac: Jarnac is a welcoming town. Take time to discover the city and its history and to learn about the powerful Chabot family of barons.
Angoulême RETURN via Cognac
Angoulême RETURN via Cognac
Angoulême RETURN via Cognac
Angoulême RETURN via Cognac
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Overview
Travel west along the River Charente to discover charming villages adorned with cafes, historic landmarks, museums, and unique shops. The millennium-old abbey in Bassac and the 12th-century St. Pierre Cathedral in Angoulême showcase the region’s deep historical roots, evident in the narrow streets and ancient market squares. Boating on the Charente in France offers a journey through breathtaking pastoral landscapes. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the globally renowned Cognac as well.
Top highlights:
- Angoulême‘s cultural history – be sure to visit the International Centre for Comic Strips and Images!
- The fresh ‘Chocolaterie Letuffe’ in Trois-Palis
- Spirit tasting in Châteauneuf-sur-Charente
- Saint-Sigismond in the heart of Saint-Simon
- Jarnac‘s old town and crypt
- Fresh brandy tasting in Cognac
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Angoulême: Angoulême is a great city which has seen many wars over the centuries; evident in the many fortifications you’ll see around town. It is now a charming neighborhood of restaurants, galleries and boutiques. Downtown, discover many monuments like the impressive and marvelous City Hall, which is a former castle.
- Trois-Palis: Trois-Palis is a peaceful town where you will enjoy walking, and perhaps visiting the old Romanesque church, Notre Dame. The old mills have been replaced by a chocolate factory; its shop may be open.
- Châteauneuf-sur-Charente: In the heart of an area known for great spirits like Cognac and Pineau, historic Châteauneuf-sur-Charente welcomes you. Visit church Saint-Pierre and dine in one of the fine restaurants downtown.
- Saint-Simon: Saint-Simon is a little peaceful town where you will enjoy the fresh air. Downtown, take your time and walk along the winding streets; discover the old church Saint-Sigismond.
- Jarnac: Jarnac is a welcoming town. Take time to discover the city and its history and to learn about the powerful Chabot family of barons.
- Cognac: Cognac is a dynamic and historic city. Walk the old winding streets lined with timbered houses, and explore the green gardens next to the city hall. Cognac is famous for its delightful brandy, which you can enjoy tasting while you’re here.
Angoulême to Jarnac
Angoulême to Jarnac
Angoulême to Jarnac
Angoulême to Jarnac – ONEWAY
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Overview
During this short break, you will get to explore the rich history of Charente towns! Begin with Angoulême, renowned for its cultural heritage, abundant restaurants, galleries, and boutiques, highlighted by the transformed castle now serving as City Hall. Next, experience the peace of Trois-Palis, featuring a surprising chocolate factory in place of old mills. In Châteauneuf-sur-Charente, immersed in a region famous for spirits, discover the Saint-Pierre church and downtown’s fine dining options. Saint-Simon, a tranquil town, invites you to appreciate nature while strolling its winding streets. Lastly, Jarnac, a hospitable town, unveils its history, offering insights into the influential Chabot family of barons.
Top highlights:
- Angoulême‘s cultural history – be sure to visit the International Centre for Comic Strips and Images!
- The fresh ‘Chocolaterie Letuffe’ in Trois-Palis
- Spirit tasting in Châteauneuf-sur-Charente
- Saint-Sigismond in the heart of Saint-Simon
- Jarnac‘s old town and crypt
Example itinerary:
The following is only an example, you can explore this area in whichever order you want, so long as your boat is back at the end base at the end of your vacation:
- Angoulême: Also called the ‘Wall of the Canal du Midi’, Angoulême is a great city which has seen many wars over the centuries; evident in the many fortifications you’ll see around town. It is now a charming neighborhood of restaurants, galleries and boutiques. Downtown, discover many monuments like the impressive and marvelous City Hall, which is a former castle.
- Trois-Palis: Trois-Palis is a peaceful town where you will enjoy walking, and perhaps visiting the old Romanesque church, Notre Dame. The old mills have been replaced by a chocolate factory; its shop may be open.
- Châteauneuf-sur-Charente: In the heart of an area known for great spirits like Cognac and Pineau, historic Châteauneuf-sur-Charente welcomes you. Visit church Saint-Pierre and dine in one of the fine restaurants downtown.
- Saint-Simon: Saint-Simon is a little peaceful town where you will enjoy the fresh air. Downtown, take your time and walk along the winding streets; discover the old church Saint-Sigismond.
- Jarnac: Jarnac is a welcoming town. Take time to discover the city and its history and to learn about the powerful Chabot family of barons.