9 Reasons to Visit the Cognac Area

Centred around the charming riverside town of the same name, Cognac country offers a wealth of experiences to delight the senses and learn about ancestral know-hows and traditions found in the Charentes.  

Located just about 2 hours away from Paris and Bordeaux, the Cognac area – branded under the name Explore Cognac – is a rich, diverse and dense destination which can easily be explored by car or even by bike. Easily accessible by car, train or plane, this region awaits you with open arms, a chilled glass in hand.   

But the reach of Cognac goes beyond its eponymous town ;  indeed, you can enjoy many Cognac-related experiences throughout Charente and Charente-Maritime and see wonderful heritage still standing today, whether in the shade of a riverside willow tree or to the sound of gulls as they soar over the crashing waves of the Atlantic. The capital of comics, Angoulême, and the beautiful port town of La Rochelle cannot be missed either. 

Here are 9 reasons to explore Cognac and beyond. 

1. Dive in the sensory world of the Cognac Houses

Step inside the prestigious Cognac houses and discover centuries of meticulous know-how that have crafted the spirits that grace the chicest of apéritifs: Hennessy, Courvoisier, Martell, Camus, Rémy Martin. From immersive tours to exclusive tastings, delve into the rich history of these Cognac houses and encounter the passionate teams involved in crafting the luxurious eau-de-vie

2. Share a unique moment with the winegrowers

Tired of tastings? Try something different while visiting the wine-making estates of Cognac and meet the winegrowers who welcome visitors with open arms. A poetry reading in the home of Alfred de Vigny while swirling a 25 year-old cognac? A 1900s escape game? Cocktail-making? A VIP tour of one of the most renowned Cognac houses? Breakfast over a distillation demonstration? There’s something for everyone in Cognac’s region. 

3. Experience the various Cognac know-hows

Perhaps the most intriguing and exciting experience is to dive into the secrets of Cognac-making. The intricate process requires many steps before the exquisite beverage is ready. From wine-growing to blending and learning how growers band together to create unique, cooperative vintages, there are a plethora of experiences to try! Find out about barrel making or try a blending workshop with a cellar master. A visit to the Maison de la Vigne et des Saveurs, an interactive visitors’ centre offering workshops and activities, is also a must.

4. Enjoy an outstanding gastronomic experience pairing food and Cognac

A visit to Cognac country would not be complete without satisfying the taste buds and filling the belly with delicious food, paired with the finest Cognac naturellement! Refreshing oysters from the Oléron island or even chocolate are just some of the surprising pairings you can enjoy but you could try your hand at a cooking class paired with Cognac too or simply sit back and tuck into a royal feast at the heart of the castle where king François I was born.

5. Step in the shoes of a barman

 A spirit as fine as Cognac calls for fun cocktails and mixology classes. Bars such as Mary Lili, Chais Monnet Jazz bar, Bar Louise, Luciole offer cocktail-making courses but there are several mixology activities available in the houses of Cognac as well. 

6. Enjoy the ocean and its treasures

The Atlantic is never far and one can almost taste the sea on the breeze blowing in from the coast, particularly from the Oléron Island or the bustling port town of La Rochelle. Speaking of tasting, oysters are a local specialty and the Marennes variety are particularly sought-after. For a more relaxed affair, take the time for a thalassotherapy in Chateilaillon, while the thrill-seekers can make a splash with one of the many sea water activities available.   

7. Explore the charentais heritage

The area is bursting with historical châteaux and picturesque villages, built from the same white or golden limestone. Cognac, Saintes, Aubeterre, Angoulême, La Rochelle, each has its own unique characteristics and highlights but all testify to the enticing, gently-paced, sweet-tasting vie à la Charentaise. 

8. Take it slow with mindful and sustainable activities

Follow the beautiful Charente river along the Flow Velo cycling route or pedal among the vineyards before plopping down for a picnic. In the Cognac area, it’s all about taking your time to live the area, rather than sightseeing it. 

9. Marvel at the quiet Charente River

The winding, trickling waters of the Charente river are the heartbeat of the hinterland. Enjoy its fresh banks or take the plunge and go on a canoe and kayak excursion. For the ultimate laid-back day out on the water, go on a gourmet cruise. 

For more information, visit www.explore-cognac.com.