Cycling in Charente, Cognac region

This self-guided trip explores the Charente, home of Cognac, starting in the town itself among the "Grandes Maisons" such as Rémy Martin, Martell and Hennessy. Riders follow the Charente valley through vineyards and picturesque villages including Bourg-Charente, Jarnac (birthplace of François Mitterrand) and Vibrac, with its humpback bridges, to reach Angoulême, the "international city of comics."

An optional loop from Angoulême visits the Renaissance Château de La Rochefoucauld and the Quéroy caves. The route then heads south through forests and waterside villages around Roullet-Saint-Estèphe before returning to cognac country via the ruined Château de Bouteville.

The final stages pass through Bassac, home to a historic abbey, and Segonzac, capital of the Grande Champagne cognac appellation, with tasting opportunities throughout. Accommodation is in 3-star hotels, including charming stays in old Angoulême and Cognac.

Highlights

• Grandes Maisons de Cognac and the old town of Cognac
• Charente valley villages including Jarnac and Bourg-Charente
• Angoulême's historic centre, the international city of comics
• Optional loop to the Renaissance Château de La Rochefoucauld
• Ruined Château de Bouteville and cognac tastings in Grande Champagne country
• Segonzac, capital of the Grande Champagne cognac appellation

Surface and terrain:
Small country roads through gentle vineyard slopes and river valleys. No major climbs; total ascent ranges from around 1,050m (6-day version) to 1,750m (8-day version, with all stages included).

Suitable for:
Riders wanting a relaxed, self-guided tour combining cycling with Cognac-region gastronomy and tastings.