Sail along the Charente river with its unspoilt natural landscapes and uncover a region steeped in history. Discover the charm of manual locks and small villages, enjoy the pleasure of sailing in the footsteps of traditional barges which once transport salt and cognac along the river.
Sireuil, where you will board your canal boat at the Nicols base is a perfect location to start your discovery of the beautiful, calm and winding Charente river.
Sireuil: Distillerie des Moisans
Saint-Simeux: Picturesque village
Châteauneuf sur Charente: The heart of the Pineau des Charentes and Cognac region, many family activities including outdoor swimming pool, beach, water skiing, canoeing, hiking, mountain biking and motocross.
Vibrac: Small beach, 12th and 18th century bridges, 16th, 17th and 18th century houses, mill
St Simon: Historic trail uncovers the village’s history as a centre for cargo barge construction, replica of 19th century barge.
Bassac: Saint-Etienne church, 11th century Abbey surrounded by monastic buildings, mill and 16th century bridge
Jarnac: The Cognac houses of Courvoisier and Hine, birthplace of François Mitterand with museum
Cognac: The Cognac houses of Hennessy, Rémy Martin, Martell, Baron Otard and Meukow. Museum of Cognac Arts, old town with mansions, half-timbered houses, Saint Léger church
Chaniers: Nearby ‘Moulin royal de la Baine’ 17th century mill, with restaurant and beautiful river views.
Saintes: Archaeological museum, l’Abbaye aux Dames -11th century abbey with unique musical carousel ride, Roman amphitheatre.
St Savinien: Characterful small city with picturesque waterside houses and Romanesque church. Crafts, galleries, workshops and miniature port on the island of Grenouillette where children can drive and ride small scale boats like steamers, trawlers and tugs.
When you have explored Saint-Savinien it is time to make the return leg of your journey, perhaps revisiting some of your favourite places as you cruise back to the Nicols base at Sireuil where you will return your boat
Family holidays
We loved our boating holiday on the Charente! It's a fantastic way to spend a family vacation. We particularly enjoyed Cognac which is such a very pretty city. The children loved the little train that tours around the Rémy Martin distillery.
Katrine, Denmark