Cheap French Property

In the Area

Explore all the Charente has to offer

The Charente countryside is lovely and peaceful with the advantage that there are plenty of lively towns and villages in the area for when you want some activity. As well as lots of weekly markets full of locally-grown produce and locally-made crafts, there are many activities for children and outdoors-oriented adults to participate in, plus endless opportunities for eating and drinking and getting to know your neighbours!

A well-respected international music and dance festival takes place every summer a few miles to the north of the property in Confolens. Every winter the world-famous cartoon festival is held to the south of the property in the delightful city of Angoulême, a location which also hosts classic car racing around its ramparts each September.

The area is easily accessible via good road and rail links as well as several regional airports.

Angoulême

Perched on a dramatic plateau above the Charente River, Angoulême combines centuries of history with a vibrant modern culture. This elegant city, with its stunning panoramic views, offers an exceptional quality of life that perfectly balances tradition and contemporary living.

The historic centre captivates visitors with its beautifully preserved architecture, including the remarkable Saint-Pierre Cathedral and ancient ramparts. These elevated walkways not only provide spectacular views but also host the thrilling Circuit des Remparts each September, when classic cars race through the medieval streets.

At the heart of the city, you’ll find Les Halles, where locals gather to shop for fresh produce and regional specialities. Meanwhile, Angoulême’s status as the ‘City of the Image’ brings international recognition through its prestigious Comics Festival each January, while striking murals throughout the city create an open-air gallery experience.

The city centre offers excellent amenities, including charming cafés, restaurants, and independent shops, alongside numerous cultural venues ensuring there’s always something happening in this dynamic city.

La Rochefoucauld

La Rochefoucauld, just a short drive from the property, offers a perfect blend of medieval charm and French village life. At its heart stands the magnificent château, often called “the pearl of the Angoumois,” which has belonged to the same family for over a thousand years. With its impressive Renaissance architecture and grand spiral staircase, it’s more reminiscent of the famous Loire Valley castles.

The town spreads gracefully along the banks of the Tardoire River, where a 15th-century arched bridge provides picture-perfect views of the château above. The historic centre boasts delightful discoveries, including medieval timber-framed houses, the gothic Collegiale Notre Dame de l’Assomption, and the beautifully restored cloisters of the 14th-century Carmes Convent.

Market days bring the town centre alive, while local shops, cafés, and restaurants offer a taste of authentic French living. Throughout the year, La Rochefoucauld hosts various events, including a spectacular medieval festival in the château grounds, complete with period craftsmen, knights’ tournaments, and traditional entertainment.

Whether you’re exploring the château’s extensive libraries housing 20,000 volumes, wandering the ancient streets, or simply enjoying a coffee in the town square, La Rochefoucauld captures the essence of French small-town living while offering rich historical surroundings.

Confolens

Nestled at the meeting point of the Vienne and Goire rivers, Confolens is a captivating medieval town that perfectly embodies the charm of rural French life.

This ‘City of Art and History’ showcases a harmonious blend of architectural treasures, from its iconic 13th-century fortified bridge to elegant half-timbered houses spanning the 15th to 18th centuries.

The historic centre tells its own story through cobblestone streets and ancient buildings, including the remarkable Saint-Maxime church with its Gothic bell tower. The town’s rich heritage as a trading hub is evident in its well-preserved medieval marketplace and historic courthouse.

Confolens comes alive during its renowned International Folklore Festival each August, drawing performers and visitors from around the world.

Throughout the year, the town offers a perfect base for exploring, with regular markets, musical events, and outdoor activities along the riverside.

The surrounding countryside provides a stunning backdrop of oak and chestnut forests, peaceful lakes, and abundant wildlife. Whether you’re exploring the old town, enjoying river activities, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of authentic French living, Confolens offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the Charente region.

Cognac

The historic town of Cognac, nestled along the Charente River, is world-renowned as the birthplace of its namesake spirit. This charming destination offers a perfect blend of heritage, gastronomy, and authentic French culture.

The town centre reveals centuries of architectural history, from medieval timber-framed buildings to elegant Renaissance mansions. Here, you’ll discover delightful squares lined with restaurants and cafés, perfect for sampling local specialities or simply watching the world go by.

What truly sets Cognac apart are its prestigious distilleries, both large and small. Famous houses like Hennessy, Martell, and Camus welcome visitors for fascinating tours and tastings. Each offers a unique glimpse into the art of cognac-making, from their historic cellars to contemporary tasting rooms. For a more intimate experience, family-owned producers like Domaine Pasquet provide personalised tours in a cosy atmosphere.