Journey to the Charente Area of France – Episode 872

November 4, 2023

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Hear about journey to the Charente area of southwest France because the Novice Traveler talks to Kylie Lang from LifeInRuralFrance.com about her adopted residence.

The Charente area, a part of Nouvelle Aquitaine in southwest France, is thought for its charming sunflower fields, historic chateaux, and wealthy historical past. Guests to the Charente can discover picturesque vineyards, style world-renowned cognac, and take pleasure in contemporary oysters. The area hosts day by day markets providing contemporary produce all year long, offering an genuine style of French life. Its quaint villages seem virtually frozen in time, creating a way of stepping again to the fifteenth century.

Eleanor of Aquitaine, a distinguished historic determine, performed a big position on this area. She was the one lady to be queen of two nations, France and England. The Charente, which was below English rule for about 300 years, now has a various neighborhood of English-speaking expatriates.

Angoulême, one of many notable cities within the Poitou Charente area, sits on a hill with historic roots relationship again to Roman instances. The town is also called the European capital of comics, internet hosting an Worldwide Comedian Pageant yearly. It options spectacular murals and a well known car race.

Kylie suggests exploring the Lodge de Ville, which gives insightful excursions about its historical past, and strolling the town’s ramparts. Angoulême’s strategic location permits easy accessibility to Bordeaux, which is just below 90 minutes away. Bordeaux, also known as the capital of wine in France, offers an amazing day journey alternative. Guests can discover the Cité du Vin, a contemporary wine museum providing immersive experiences and a panoramic view of Bordeaux. She additionally recommends the weird Bassins des Lumières which is a digital artwork museum in an previous German submarine base.

Cognac, one other jewel within the Charente’s crown, is famend for its historic significance and world-famous cognac homes comparable to Hennessy, Martell, and Remy Martin. Kylie recommends the Hennessy tour, a three-hour expertise that delves into the cognac-making course of, and a river cruise to witness the scenic great thing about the area.

The Chateau Royal de Cognac, constructed within the eleventh century, gives historic insights and a glimpse into the previous. Cognac additionally hosts occasions just like the Blues Pageant, attracting big-name musicians and making a vibrant environment.

Shifting towards La Rochelle, it was a big port and stronghold for the Knights Templar and later for the Huguenots. The town is named the “jewel of the Atlantic coast” and gives historic websites just like the towers of Saint Nicolas and La Chaîne. La Rochelle has a vibrant maritime historical past that influences its current id as a preferred vacationer vacation spot.

The islands of Île de Ré and Île d’Oléron, related by bridges, are recognized for his or her oyster and salt beds. These islands have gorgeous seashores, making them good locations for seashore lovers.

Kylie mentions the Battle of Excursions, a pivotal occasion through the Center Ages which occurred exterior Poitiers. Poitiers additionally has connections with Eleanor of Aquitaine and gives historic websites such because the Palace du Duc, which is now the native courts.

Futuroscope, positioned close to Poitiers, is a digital theme park that gives a singular and futuristic expertise. It’s residence to numerous thrilling rides and points of interest. Moreover, the Valley of the Monkeys (Vallée des Singes) close to Poitiers is a 44-hectare reserve the place monkeys roam freely. The park gives an up-close expertise with numerous monkeys and primate species.

Aubeterre-Sur-Dronne is a picturesque village with a captivating monolithic church often called the Eglise Saint-Jean. The church, carved right into a limestone cliff, showcases outstanding historic craftsmanship. The village is classed as one of many “Plus Beaux Villages de France,” recognizing its scenic magnificence and historic significance.

Kylie recommends a go to to La Rochefoucauld Chateau, a historic chateau open to the general public. The chateau has a wealthy historical past, and the La Rochefoucauld household was carefully related to royalty and was concerned in World Struggle II resistance. The chateau contains a spiral staircase, mentioned to be designed by Leonardo da Vinci.

When you’re consuming in a neighborhood restaurant, attempt a “plat de jour” for a value-packed meal. Additionally, attempt the native goat’s cheese which is a specialty of the Charente and an surprising bonus from the Battle of Excursions. Along with making an attempt cognac, she additionally recommends Pinot de Charente, a fortified wine within the area, which is akin to port or sherry.

Kylie encourages guests to discover the gorgeous landscapes of sunflower fields and revel in cognac, pinot, and the distinctive environment of line dancing.