Activities
Golf courses
There are a choice of golf courses in the region, with the closest being 10 minutes away at Cognac. Steve enjoys a round himself so if you need any advice, or require someone to play with, it won’t take much to twist Steve’s arm.
The following link lists the courses in the area
www.visitcharente.com/activities/on_the_green_golf_forever
Canoeing on the Charente River
This has to be one of the most memorable days out we’ve had. Whilst I’m not really a water lover, or sporty, we would highly recommend a day’s canoeing for all the family. We went with Steve’s girls and a friend of ours, and all really loved it. You can have a full days canoe hire and be dropped off further up the river, stopping for a picnic at lunchtime and meandering your way back to Jarnac, or you can hire the canoes for a half day or by the hour. We’re more than happy to make the booking for you and it’s certainly something we shall be doing when our friends pay us a visit.
Velo rail
We tried out the Velo rail at Confolen and at about 1½ hours from us, we recommend that you combine it with another activity to make a full day out. The Vélo-Rail is a machine with four wheels and pedals especially made to run in the railroad and can take up to 5 passengers. Two of them pedal while the others just relax and look at the landscape. The saddles are adjustable which allows children from 8 years old to use it. We took the route from Confolen to Manot (and return), which was about 18km. When you get to Manot you deserve a rest and an ice cream from the café, before making your way back. Steve’s girls surprised us again with another 10/10 for this activity and they shared the peddling, which again was unexpected.
Cycling
Whether you are a keen cyclist, or a fair weather holiday cyclist, you will enjoy the open roads and stunning countryside on offer around Sigogne. You have the option of leisurely cycling down to the river at Jarnac and back or you can be more energetic and adventurous and venture further a field. We have a couple of adult’s bikes, which you are more than welcome to borrow whilst you are with us.
Horse riding
A large well run equestrian centre just 5minutes from Cognac in Cherves-Richemont.
www.centre-equestre-cognac.com
For horse enthusiast there is also the National Stud Farm located at Saintes, which has been housed here since 1846 in its elegant buildings surrounded by 10 hectares of grounds. It is devoted to conserving and improving draught and saddle horse breeds, and can house up to 80 horses.
Walking
There are lots of opportunities for those who enjoy walking. You can stroll the cobbled streets, wander along the riverbank or try out one of the longer marked walking routes in the area.
Boating
If canoeing is not for you, but you’d still like a trip down the river, there are plenty of places in high season where you can opt for a boat ride such as Jarnac, Cognac & Saintes.
Fishing
Steve can’t resist the River Charente for a bit of fishing. You do need a licence and it’s cheap to purchase one for the holidays. I’m not keen on fishing myself, but happy to go along with a good book and a picnic. I’ve also been known to persuade him to fish at Cognac so I can wander around the shops as well. I’m sure he’ll be happy to pass on all his favourite spots!