Author: Koti

Aubeterre Sur Dronne Charente France Geography and Transport

A Hamlet covering 2.39km² and situated in the South of the Charente Department very close to the border with the Dordogne (Aquitaine).  There are no major roads near to Aubeterre sur Dronne, although the D674 can be reached at Chalais (12km).  Chalais also gives access to the regional rail network (TER).  The nearest airport is Angouleme, but add another 30 mins to your journey and you could be at either Bordeaux or Bergerac for other flight options to the UK.  As the name suggests, the Hamlet is situated on the Dronne River, at an altitude of 38m to 112m.

Aubeterre Sur Dronne Charente France Climate

The climate here is Maritime, with hot Summer daytime temperatures of between 26C and 28C (13C to 15C night).  May, September, and October also provide warm daytime temperatures (between 20C to 24C), with nights dropping to 9C to 11C.  Winter temperatures are typically 10C to 12C (2C to 3C night).  Wettest months are Apr, May, Nov and Dec (70mm to 79mm), and driest are Feb, Mar, and July (42mm to 48mm).  Aubeterre sur Dronne is part of a zone which receives over 2000 hours of sunshine per year.

Tourism In Aubeterre Sur Dronne Charente France

Aubeterre sur Dronne is recognized as being one of the most beautiful (and most photographed) villages in France (Les Plus Beaux Villes de France).  Narrow and winding medieval streets offer views of the ruins of the 16^th Century Chateau above the village.  The key site to see here is the Monolithic Eglise St Jean, the largest underground church in France.  Carved out of the rock of a cliff that stands over the Dronne River, the church is 20m tall and contains a number of important historic monuments.  Also of note, is the Eglise St Jacques, a 12^th Century Romanesque Church that was destroyed by war in 1562, and re-built in the 17^th Century.  Also available in Aubeterre sur Dronne are museums covering Puppets, Butterfly and African Arts, and Dolls.  There is a campsite in Aubeterre itself, and another at St Aulaye (Dordogne).  Whilst Aubeterre is some distance from the coast, there are small beaches nearby, either by the Dronne River (Aubeterre, Parcoul and St Aulay) or at the lake at Brossac.

Aubeterre Sur Dronne Charente France – Economy

Aubeterre sur Dronne is part of the Sud Charente economic zone, which has an unemployment rate of 8.8%, compared against the regional rate of 8.6% and the national rate of 9.1% (INSEE 2006).

Facilities In Aubeterre Sur Dronne Charente France

Supermarkets are available nearby at both Riberac (Dordogne) and Chalais (10km), although Aubeterre has its own smaller general store.  The nearest swimming pool is at Chalais, and for a cinema, you will need to travel to Riberac.

Education In Aubeterre Sur Dronne Charente France

Aubeterre has both a Nursery School and a Primary School, but for High School (College) children can travel to Chalais, Saint Aulay or Riberac (1 private and 1 public).  Riberac also has a College (Lycee).

Aubeterre Sur Dronne Charente France – Key Stats

There are more females than males in Aubeterre (51.6 vs 48.4), and there the proportion of the population over 60 years of age is significantly higher than the national average (49.5% vs 21.3%), with the percentage of people below the age of 19 is nearly half the national average (13.7% vs 24.6%).  The proportion of retired people here is also higher (29.5% vs 18.2%).  Of the properties in Aubeterre, only 63% are classed as main homes, with a huge 23% classed as second homes.

Aubeterre Sur Dronne Charente France Key Facilities and Services

 Ars En Re France Geography and Transport

Ars en Re is a village located on the western side of the Ile de Re, off the Atlantic coast of La Rochelle.  The commune covers an area of 10.95km².  The island is accessible via a 3km toll bridge (cost from 9 euro to 16.50 return), and the D735 is the main road that runs through it.  From La Rochelle, there are motorways towards Niort (N11) and Rochefort (N137).  There is no rail link from the island, but La Rochelle does provide access to both regional rail (TER) and the TGV, which links with Paris (Montparnasse) in a shade over 3 hours.  The nearest airport is La Rochelle, and this offers flights to a variety of UK destinations with the major budget carriers.

 Ars En Re France Climate

The climate here is mild courtesy of the position of the village on the Atlantic coast.  This has the effect of keeping summer temperatures warm (but not excessively hot) whilst keeping winters mild.  Average summer temperatures are between 22C and 24C (14C to 17C night), and in winter this drops to 9C to 10C (4C to 5C night).  Spring and Autumn can be warm with May averaging 19C (12C), and September 22C (14C).  Wettest months are Oct and Nov with 65mm and 62mm respectively, and the driest months are June and Aug with 24mm and 29mm respectively.  The village is within an area that receives over 2000 hours of sunshine per year.

 Ars En Re France Holiday Rentals And Tourism

Ars en Re is listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France (Les plus beaux villages de France).  It is one of the oldest parishes on the island and has historically been part of the salt trade, with the first salt pans established close-by in the 11^thCentury.  There are still around 60 salt merchants active today in the area.  The village boasts a 12^th Century church (St Etienne), whose 40m high black and white spire still serve as a landmark for sailors.  The village was a separate island until the 15^th Century when it was connected with the rest of Re by landfill.

 Ars En Re France Facilities

The village has a pretty yachting harbor, and all around are opportunities for activities such as tennis, boating, fishing, diving, swimming, cycling, and horse riding, and there is a thalassotherapy center here for health treatments using salty sea water.  Not surprisingly, the restaurants here offer fresh seafood, with oysters being the specialty, and l’Huitriere de Re oyster farm offers the opportunity to learn more about oyster farming through guided tours and a small museum.

 Ars En Re France Economy

The village is part of the La Rochelle economic zone which has an unemployment rate of 9.8%, compared against the regional rate of 8.6% and the national rate of 9.1% (INSEE 2006).  The economy here is driven by agriculture, tourism and salt production.

 Ars En Re France Education

There is a primary school in the village, and the nearest secondary school is 13km away at St Martin de Re.  Colleges (Lycee) are available across the water at La Rochelle.

 Ars En Re France Key Stats

A whopping 60.4% of homes here are second homes, with 36.4% of properties are classed as primary homes.  There are more people aged 60 or over than the national average (36.4% vs 21.3%), and the number of retired people is also higher (31.7% vs 18.2%).  18.6% of the local population are under 19 years of age.  There are fewer males than females resident here (49% vs 51%).  Hundreds of thousands of tourists visit the Ile de Re during peak times, but the population of the whole island is normally around 16,500.

 Ars En Re France Key Facilities and Services:

Angles Sur L Anglin Geography and Transport

Angles sur l’Anglin is a small village located in the East of the Vienne department, close to the borders with Indre (36) and Indre et Loire (37).  The commune area of Angles sur l’Anglin extends to 14.75km² at an altitude of 63m to 139m.  There are no major routes in the immediate vicinity, although the N151 from Poitiers and Chauvigny passes to the south of the village.  There is no rail link here, and the nearest is at Chatellerault (33km) where it is possible to connect with both the TGV and TER services.  The TGV can connect with Paris (Montparnasse) in 1h25mins.  The nearest commercial airport is Poitiers Biard (57km) with seasonal services to the UK, but Tours airport is also an option at 108km.

Angles Sur L Anglin Climate

The climate here is maritime, and therefore temperate with clearly defined seasons.  Average Summer temperatures are between 23C to 26C (12C-15C night), and in Winter this drops to 7C to 8C (2C to 3C night).  Wettest month is October with 53mm, and the driest month is March with 28mm.  Angles sur l’Anglin is within an area that receives between 1750 and 2000 hours of sunshine per year.

Angles Sur L Anglin – Vienne Tourist Information

Angles sur l’Anglin is listed as one of the most beautiful villages of France (Les Plus Beaux Villages de France), and also achieved a 3 flower rating as part of the Ville Fleurie accreditation.  The village is renowned for its fortress, built in 1025 and sited 50m above the river on a cliff.  The fortress is a ruin and has been so since the 17^thcentury, but it is now a protected monument although open to the public.  The trench pathway ‘La Tranchee des Anglais’ leads down the hill from the fortress to the St Pierre Church, a 12th-century structure affording superb views over the valley.  The village is full of interesting architecture, such as the 12^th century St Croix Church on the opposite side of the river, and L’Arceau, an archway, and cellars previously used as salt warehouses, with Spanish ‘Sarragosse’ influenced design.

The village is now also famous for the discovery in 1948 of the Roc aux Sorciers.  This archaeological site houses a 20m long sculpted and painted artwork, estimated to be between 14-15,000 years old.  The site itself cannot be visited, but there is a Centre d’Interpretation which offers exhibitions, and two separate means of viewing the piece.  One a digital reproduction, and the other a molding of the work that people can touch.

There are a number of annual events held in the village, including Artisanales Medievale, a street festival held in July with musicians, dancers, and street animations.  In August there is the Pyromelodique Spectacle, with a funfair, evening entertainment and fireworks over the fortress.  Also in August is the Concours de Peche (annual fishing competition).  In June is the Guinguette Au Bord de l’Eau, an open-air Moules and Frites night with orchestra and dancing.

Angles Sur L Anglin Facilities

There are limited facilities in Angles sur l’Anglin, and the nearest supermarket is at nearby Yzeures sur Creuse (12km), where there is also a swimming pool and pharmacy.  The nearest doctors and dentists are at St Pierre de Malle (4km)

Angles Sur L Anglin Economy

Angles sur l’Anglin is part of the Montmorillon economic zone, which has an unemployment rate of 6.7%, compared against the regional rate of 8.6% and the national rate of 9.1% (INSEE 2006).

Education In Angles Sur L Anglin

Angles sur l’Anglin has a state primary school, but for nursery school, the nearest is at Marigny (11km).  The nearest secondary School (College) is at Tournon St Martin (8km), and the nearest College (Lycee) is at Le Blanc (18km).

Key Stats About Angles Sur L Anglin

52.7% of properties here are classed as primary residences, with 37.5% classed as second homes.  There are more males than females resident here (50.7% vs 49.3%), and there are more people aged 60 or over than the national average (48.8% vs 21.3%).  There are also more retired people here than against the national average (43.8% vs 18.2%).  12.3% of the local population are under 19 years of age.

Angles Sur L Anglin Key Facilities and Services

Ile De Re in France Description

•  Ile De Re in France Geography and Transport           

The Ile de Re is situated off the Atlantic coast of Poitou Charentes, just 3km from La Rochelle.  The 3km road bridge that opened in 1988 links the Island with the mainland, and costs around 16.50 euro in peak season for a return trip.  Ile de Re can still be reached by boat, with the company Inter-Iles from the old port in La Rochelle, and also from a new facility (2008) at La Tranche Sur Mer (Vendee).  Timetables can vary in both days and times of travel depending on the season.  There is no rail link from the island, but La Rochelle provides easy access to both regional railway TER and the high-speed TGV which can have you in Paris (Montparnasse) in a shade over 3 hours.  La Rochelle also has a commercial airport that offers a wide variety of flights to the UK, and French cities.  In terms of road access, the N11 motorway connects La Rochelle with Niort to the East, and the N137 to Rochefort in the South.

•  Ile De Re in France Climate

The climate here is mild courtesy of the position of the island on the Atlantic coast.  This has the effect of keeping summer temperatures warm (but not excessively hot) whilst keeping winters mild.  Average summer temperatures are between 22C and 24C (14C to 17C night), and in winter this drops to 9C to 10C (4C to 5C night).  Spring and Autumn can be warm with May averaging 19C (12C), and September 22C (14C).  Wettest months are Oct and Nov with 65mm and 62mm respectively, and the driest months are June and Aug with 24mm and 29mm respectively.  This part of Charente Maritime receives in excess of 2000 hours of sunshine per year.

•  Ile De Re in France Economy

The island is popular with well-heeled Parisians and other city dwellers as a place to own a second home.  This is borne out by the fact that around 60% of properties here fall into this category.  Out of season, the population of the island is around 16,500, but during the tourist season, the population can swell to 200,000.  In 2007, there were around 1.5m nights spent in camping on the islands 48 campsites, and 0.25m nights spent in its 35 hotels (not to mention the holiday parks, bed, and breakfasts and other accommodation).  Whilst the preference for camping might be related to capacity and the fun and excitement of the outdoors, another factor could be that around half of the hotels here are 3 or 4 stars (with a tariff to match).

•  Ile De Re in France Tourism

Enduring images of the Ile de Re are of Hollyhocks, whitewashed low-rise buildings with pastel green shutters, beaches and bicycles.  Strict planning controls have ensured that, despite the ‘opening-up’ of the island by the new road bridge, the island remains unspoiled.  The island has a land area of around 85km² and is 30km long, and with its flat territory and maze of around 100km of cycle paths, most people choose to abandon their cars in favor of pedal power.

•  History Of Ile De Re in France 

There is plenty of history here, the location of Re on the Atlantic coast has always left it vulnerable to attack, notably from the English, but the island has been fortified over the centuries.  Saint-Martin-de-Re is the capital and is famous for both its position as a port town on the north of the island and the fact that it is surrounded by star-shaped fortifications, designed by Louis XIV’s chief engineer Vauban in 1681.  This site along with 13 others around France, was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008. Other architecture includes the Fort de la Pree and the remains of the 12^thCentury Chateliers Abbey, both at La Flotte en Re, which itself is listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France (Les plus beaux villages de France).

• Ile De Re hotels

Most places here offer fine sandy beaches, watersports, and a fine selection of restaurants and cafes offering fresh local seafood.  The flat landscape and many cycle paths make it easy to get around and see the oyster farms, salt pans, historic buildings and monuments, pine forests, and to explore the different villages.  Try a ride on a ‘donkey in trousers’ at Saint Martin, visit the nature reserve at Lilleau des Niges, or try some Thalassotherapy at one of the 3 centers on the island.

Places on the  Ile De Re in France:

• St Clement-des-Baleines
• Ars-en-Re
• La Couarde-sur-Mer
• La Flotte-en-Re
• Le Bois Plage
• Les Portes
• Loix
• Rivedoux
• St Martin-de-Re
• St Marie

Description:

Charente Maritime France Geography and Transport

Charente Maritime is the western-most Department of the Poitou Charentes region, taking in much of the north side of the Gironde Estuary, the Cote Sauvage, the Atlantic islands of Re, Oleron, Aix and Madame, and extending north as far as the bay of Anse de l’Aiguillon and the border with Vendee (Pays de la Loire).  To the north and east is the border with Deux Sevres, and towards the south and east is the Charente.  The southern-most border is with Gironde (Aquitaine).  The key road through the department is the A10 toll road that runs north to Poitiers and beyond, and south to Bordeaux, and the A837 that connects with it and takes traffic north and west to La Rochelle.

Whilst there is a regional rail network operating (TER) that links a significant number of towns, the department has access to the TGV (high-speed train) which carries passengers between Paris (Montparnasse) and La Rochelle, stopping off at Surgeres also within the department.  The department has a commercial airport at La Rochelle, offering a variety of routes to the UK with a number of budget airlines.  For places in the south of the region, Bordeaux Airport offers a viable alternative, and for those towards the west, Angouleme-Cognac Airport will provide a closer option.

Charente Maritime France Climate

This is the sunniest part of the Atlantic coast, with the coastal areas of the Charente Maritime receiving over 2000 hours of sunshine per year.  Coastal towns have more moderate year-round temperatures than those further inland, with warm (but not excessively hot) summers, and temperate winters.  The coastal areas typically receive less rainfall than their more inland neighbors.

Tourism In Charente Maritime France

The Charente Maritime is the joint second most visited part of France, behind the Var and level with neighboring Vendee.  Whilst 85% of visitors were from within France, of the 15% from outside the country, the overwhelming majority were British 37%.  It is not hard to see why so many people come here, with a sunny and warm climate, fantastic beaches and a huge diversity of attractions, the Charente Maritime is now more accessible than ever, with the ever-increasing number of budget airlines servicing the area, and the superb road and rail links.

Unsurprisingly, the area is well known for its seafood, in particular, the world-renowned Marennes-Oleron oysters, and the Bouchot Mussels of Anse de l’Aiguillon, but the whole coastline offers something different for visitors.  From Talmont sur Gironde one of the most beautiful villages in France, with its Troglodyte caves, to the 1950s designed town of Royan, with sweeping beaches and beyond to the Cote Sauvage and its unspoiled pine and dune-backed surfing beaches.  Further north is the islands, with a choice of calm waters facing the mainland, or the Atlantic side surfing beaches, and Chatelaillon Plage, with its huge beach and 700 Belle Epoque villas, giving a traditional seaside resort feel.  La Rochelle (the capital), is a vibrant seaport with excellent transport links, and a huge marina at Les Minimes and the town sees sailing as its trademark.  Further inland is the historic towns of Rochefort and Saintes, and the south-easterly town of Jonzac is within the heart of Pineau and Cognac making a country.

The department is traversed by routes used by pilgrims on the road to Santiago de Compostella during the middle ages, and there are more than 200 roman churches to see, not to mention the numerous and diverse range of chateaux and medieval fortifications.  The Aquarium at La Rochelle is the most visited in France, and the Zoo de La Palmyre is also the most visited animal park.

Charente Maritime France Economy

Biggest companies in the Charente Maritime are COOP Atlantique (Carrefour, Coop supermarkets), Synteane (agricultural cooperative), and JCMI (auto concessionaires).  Amongst the biggest employers however are Alstom (TGV and Metro manufacturers), the Centre Hospitalier in La Rochelle, and the Dept of Charente Maritime.

Charente Maritime France Keys Stats

As with the whole of the Poitou Charentes region, Charente Maritime has a bigger proportion of older people (22% of the population is under 20 years, and 28% is over 60 years).  There are more males than females here (51% vs 49%), and this does not mirror the national picture.  14.2% of homes here are classed as second homes (higher than the national average 10.1%).

Description:

Motorhome Facilities in Charente Maritime

 Aire de service/stationment pour camping-car

The following is a list of places where it is possible to park up overnight, and where there are service points for taking on water and emptying waste.  These facilities are for motorhomes only, and not intended for use by caravans.  These are often owned and run by the local Mairie (Mayor), and many are open year-round.

Chatelaillon Plage, Charente Maritime

Population: 5959 (INSEE 2007)

Postal Code: 17340

Rail Link: Yes (TER)

Nearest Airport: La Rochelle – (23km/14mi – 18mins)

Nearest Channel Port: Saint-Malo (336km/209mi – 3h56mins)

Nearest Seaside Beach: Chatelaillon Plage

Commerce: Restaurants, bars, shops

Economy: Tourism, commerce

To visit: Marais d’Yves (Nature Reserve)

Events: International Kite Festival (Easter weekend)

Market: Daily

Opened in summer 2009, this facility is predominantly used for track days, club days and ‘stages’ (teaching events) where you can even learn to drive economically.

The 2.2 km long and 12-meter wide track includes amenities ranging from pit and paddock areas, and conferencing facilities.

A separate 1.1km karting track offers electric karts for hire.

You can check out the website by clicking here.

La Grand-Font

17360 LA GENETOUZE

TEL : 05 46 04 08 10

Coastal Paths of the Island of Ré Description:

PR 2, 10 km, 2 1/2 hours starting from Rivedoux, yellow signage, except on the coast. Reference: Topo-guide® “Promenades et randonnées dans l’île de Ré”, Comité départemental de randonnée pédestre de Charente-Maritime.

Start from the entrance to the island to the right of the road from the bridge.  The walk takes you under the bridge and along Rivedoux’ southern beach then on to the coastal path.  The Défend marshes are protected by France’s coastal conservancy agency (Conservatoire du Littoral) and are visited by numerous birds during migration.

Out to sea is the Chauveau Lighthouse. It stands on a vast plateau of rock famous for its shellfish. The path then turns inland, towards the old Le Taffetas and La Croix d’Yon distilleries. Scrub and thickets now cover land that grew vines and asparagus until the early 20th century. The path then enters the wood known as the Bois des Bragauds.

In spring, the clearing carpeted with sweet clover contains countless orchids.  The path turns twice to the right and heads for Rivedoux.  Beyond a campsite, it skirts a water tower.  Then an unexpected alley provides a view of the tiny harbor in Rivedoux.  At low tide, you can see the oyster beds and, behind them, the slender curve of the bridge. Walk along the beach to the car park at the north end

Jonzac, Charente Maritime Geography, and Transport

Jonzac is a small town in the south of the Charente Maritime Department, in the heart of Cognac making country (altitude 26m to 87m).  The commune covers an area of 13.09m².  Both the N137 and the A10 pass to the west of the town, carrying traffic north and south.  The nearest airport is at Angouleme (Charente), where budget flights to the UK are available.  The town has a regional rail link (TER).   Jonzac is the capital of the Haute Saintonge territory, the Saintonge ‘region’ being the historic center of Protestantism in France.  Jonzac is within the designated Petite Champagne region of the Cognac appellation.  The River Seugne passes through the town.

Jonzac, Charente Maritime Climate

The maritime climate here keeps summers warm and winters temperate.  Average summer temperatures are between 24C to 27C (13C to 15C night), and in winter this drops to 9C to 11C (3C to 4C night).  September can be warm, with an average of 22C (12C night).  Wettest months are Oct and Nov (54mm to 57mm), and the driest months are July and Aug (32mm).   Jonzac is within an area that receives over 2000 hours of sunshine per year.

Tourism In Jonzac, Charente Maritime

Jonzac is a medieval town with a Romanesque Church and a 15th-century town gate and bridge.  Nearby at Meux (8km) is the Chateau de Meux, the early chateau being completed in 1250, but reconstructed after the 100 years war, it is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture. Jonzac has its own chateau, originally constructed in the 11^th century, but also a victim of the 100 years war, and extensively re-built in the 15^th century.  The 15^th Century Cloitre des Carmes is now a cultural center and museum.

Jonzac, Charente Maritime Facilities

The municipal base de loisirs at the Huertebise leisure lake offers swimming, a playground, and picnic area, and there are sailing boats for hire.  Amongst other activities are archery, climbing, and horse-riding.  The Thermal Spa (discovered in 1979) is also sited at this facility, with the hot spring said to have healing properties for treatment of rheumatism and respiratory problems.  A big tourist draw is the Antilles de Jonzac, a large covered aquatic center (10,000m²) open all year round.  It includes a tropical wave pool, 60m water slide and a host of other health and beauty facilities.

Jonzac, Charente Maritime Economy

Chief companies here are SEUDIS (Leclerc supermarkets), and Radoux (wine barrels/cooperage).

Jonzac is part of the Sud Charente economic zone which has an unemployment rate of 8.8%, compared against the regional rate of 8.6% and the national rate of 9.1% (INSEE 2006).

Education In Jonzac, Charente Maritime

The town has state education at Nursery (2), Primary (1), Secondary School (1) and College (Lycee) levels.

Jonzac, Charente Maritime Key Stats

Most of the properties in Jonzac are main residences 76.5%, and 10% of properties are classed as second homes.  There are more people aged 60 or over than the national average (29.9% vs 21.3%), and the number of retired people is also higher (25.5% vs 18.2%).  20.7% of the local population is under 19 years of age.  There are fewer males than females resident here (45.1% vs 54.9%).

Jonzac, Charente Maritime Key Facilities, and Services:

Description:

Geography and Transport

The Charente Department is the southeastern segment of the Poitou Charentes Region, bordering the Haute Vienne (Limousin) to the east, the Dordogne (Aquitaine) to the south.  The neighboring departments of Vienne (86) and Deux Sevres (79) is situated to the north, and Charente Maritime (17) is situated to the west.  The key arterial routes through the department are the RN10 (north-south), which has significant stretches of motorway (notably around Angouleme), and the RN141 (east-west) which carries traffic between Cognac – Angouleme – Limoges (Limousin).

Whilst there is a regional rail network operating (TER) that links a significant number of towns, the department has access to the TGV (high-speed train) which carries passengers between Paris and Brussels in the North, and Bordeaux/Hendaye in the South.  The TGV stops at both Ruffec and, more frequently, Angouleme.  The department has a commercial airport at Brie/Champniers, and this was recently upgraded (new commerce and extended runway) and re-named Angouleme (Cognac) Airport ready for the introduction of budget airline routes to the UK from early 2008.  Prior to this, options by air were via La Rochelle, Poitiers, Limoges, Bordeaux, and Bergerac.

Climate

Whilst Charente is inland, its climate is driven by the Atlantic Ocean, and this results in warm (often hot) summers and cool (but not excessively cold) winters.  There is little difference between average temperatures across the department, although there can be significant differences in average rainfall.

Tourism

The beautiful and picturesque Vienne River sweeps through the northeast of the region via Confolens, but it is the River Charente which plays a more prominent part in the Department, winding its way down via Ruffec to Angouleme which is its most inland navigable point.  The River has historically played a major role as a trade route for the movement of salt and cognac, but now provides many superb opportunities for tourism.

Charente may be famous for the Charentaise Slipper, Cognac, and Pineau des Charentes, but there is a great variety of things to see and do here for visitors.  Picturesque lakes and rivers for outdoor pursuits like fishing, swimming and canoeing, historic buildings and monuments, pretty villages, spectacular castles, wildlife, animal parks and zoos, tranquil walks and cycle paths, rolling countryside and events as diverse as rock concerts, comic strip festivals, folk festivals, hot air ballooning and classic car racing.

The most popular attractions (statistically) in the Charente are the Cognac Houses, the Monolithic Church of Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, and the Museum of the Comic Strip in Angouleme, whilst by far the most popular event was the Comic Strip Festival in Angouleme.

Economy

Major companies in the Charente are Cognac Houses like Hennessy, Remy/Cointreau, and Martell, but in addition, Leroy Somer (manufacturing/engineering), Schnieder Electric and Auchan (supermarkets) also have a sizeable presence.

Key Stats

As with the whole of the Poitou Charentes region, Charente has a bigger proportion of older people than younger people (22% of the population is under 20 years, and 25% is over 60 years).  There are more males than females here (51% vs 49%), and this does not match the national picture.  5.5% of homes here are classed as second homes (less than the national average).

Description:

Motorhome Facilities in Charente

Aire de service/stationment pour camping-car

The following is a list of places where it is possible to park up overnight, and where there are service points for taking on water and emptying waste.  These facilities are for motorhomes only, and not intended for use by caravans.  These are often owned and run by the local Mairie (Mayor), and many are open year-round.