8 essential things to do in the Cognac region

Visit the Maison de la Grande Champagne

This association represents around 20 Cognac, Pineau des Charentes and Charente wine producers. There are so many wonderful discoveries to be made among these small-scale producers!
www.maisongrandechampagne.com

Visit the Allary cooperage

Find out everything there is to know about this ancient art and craft with this instructive and entertaining tour: perfect for families.
To book: +33 (0)5.46.49.14.59 or contact@tonnellerie-allary.com)
www.tonnellerie-allary.com

Take to the water on a Gabare from the town of Saintes

These traditional wooden riverboats offer a range of different cruises on the River Charente, ranging from an hour to an hour and a half. There are many cruise themes to choose from: the history of the Gabariers boatmen, the mysteries of the river, and special pirate and storytelling cruises for younger adventurers.
www.saintes-tourisme.fr

Try geocaching in Saintes: Terra Aventura

Terra Aventura is an original kind of treasure hunt over a trail covering a few kilometres, during which you’ll discover the area, the local heritage and some interesting stories as you play using a 100% free smartphone app.
So what are you searching for? The Poï’z! The Poï’z are the people who live in Terra Aventura.
As you play Terra Aventura, the Poï'Z - Zabeth, Zouti, Zellé and Zéidon - will take you down unsuspected paths and lead you to points of interest, major historical sites and the most beautiful vantage points.
www.terra-aventura.fr

Visit the Gallo-Roman amphitheatre in Saintes

The Gallo-Roman amphitheatre in Saintes was built between 40 and 50 A.D., and is one of the most complete remaining in France. Kids aged 7 to 12 can win a Top Gallo-Roman certificate (an English version is also available) by successfully completing the game in the tour leaflet! For more information, tours and bookings:
www.ville-saintes.fr

Marvel at the blue water springs of the Château de Beaulon

Dating from 1480, the Château de Beaulon was the residence of the Bishops of Bordeaux in the 17th century. Today, it is a Listed Historic Monument. Don’t miss: the 1740 dovecote, the winery and cellars, the gardens and, at the heart of a stunning woodland park, the amazing dark blue waters of natural springs whose supernatural colour is said to be the result of fairy magic... A truly magical experience.
www.chateau-de-beaulon.fr

Take a journey back in time at the Craft & Rural Museum in Clion-sur-Seugne

There’s a page of local history to discover at the heart of this pretty village. The 7 rooms of the museum introduce you to the craftsmanship, agriculture and lifestyles of the last century: it really is like winding back the clock!
www.museeartisanaletruralclion.fr

Chill out at Les Antilles de Jonzac

Relax and have fun as a family or with friends in this bubble of wellbeing. This waterpark has play areas, a fitness studio, a cardio workout and weights gym, swimming and fitness tuition, a restaurant, snack bar, shop and beauty institute.
www.lesantillesdejonzac.com