Cognac, in the Charente, is the world capital of the eau-de-vie that bears its name. A peaceful town on the banks of the Charente, it is home to the most famous houses, from Hennessy to Rémy Martin, Martell, Courvoisier and Camus, which can be visited to understand distillation in Charentais copper stills, ageing in oak barrels and the art of blending.
Visiting a cellar, tasting a cognac at the end of the tour and discovering the old town, with its lanes, Valois castle and quays, make for a delicious day. Cognac also hosts festivals, notably Blues Passions in summer, and has fine restaurants where cognac features in the cooking.
About an hour and a half from La Rochelle, Cognac fits easily into a stay on the Atlantic coast, combined with Saintes, Jarnac and the Charente vineyards. Booking visits in advance is advised, especially in summer.