Route
You stay in Cognac and take day trips to La Rochelle, Rochefort, Marennes and Île d’Oléron.
Pace
One single base for five days. No constant packing, just something new to discover each day.
Highlights
A vintage 2CV drive through the vineyards, Cognac tastings, the harbour of La Rochelle and oysters in Marennes and along the coast.
Accommodation
You stay at Chais Monnet, a stylish five-star hotel set in a former wine warehouse, with spa and restaurant.
Profile
For those who like to enjoy. Good food, beautiful places and a relaxed pace.
Day 1: Arrival in Cognac
After a drive of about 800 kilometers, you will arrive in Cognac, a city where tradition and elegance go hand in hand. Chais Monnet welcomes you in a former wine warehouse transformed into a stylish five-star hotel. Enjoy a first evening in the bar with a carefully selected Cognac or taste the refined dishes in the hotel's gourmet restaurant.
Day 2: By 2CV through the vineyards
Today you will drive in an authentic 2CV through the vineyards of the Charente. The landscape gently undulates past castles and centuries-old distilleries, where the scent of oak barrels hangs in the air. Along the way, stop at an idyllic spot for a picnic featuring local produce. Back at the hotel there is time to relax in the spa or take in one more Cognac tasting.
Day 3: The maritime past of Rochefort and La Rochelle
Today you'll dive into the region's rich maritime past. In Rochefort, you will visit the legendary Corderie Royale, the former rope-making factory of the French Navy. Then drive on to La Rochelle, where the historic port and atmospheric streets invite a leisurely stroll. End the day on a terrace overlooking the ocean as the sun slowly disappears behind the fortified towers.
Day 4: Marennes - Île d'Oléron
The morning begins in Marennes, the center of French oyster farming. At the Cité de l'Huître, you'll discover all about the art of oyster farming, then taste for yourself the salty finesse of this delicacy at a local producer in La Tremblade. In the afternoon, cross over to the sun-drenched Île d'Oléron, where a wine tasting overlooking the ocean completes the day.
Day 5: Return home
Enjoy another quiet morning in town or a final stroll along the Charente River. Those looking to extend their trip can spend a few more days at a Caractère hotel on the coast or head deeper into the Bordeaux wine region.
Frequently asked questions about this trip
Do you need a rental car for this trip?
Yes. The different locations are spread out and hard to reach without a car. With a car, you can easily travel between towns, coast and vineyards.
What is the best time to travel?
April to November works best. In summer, you enjoy the coast, while June and September are quieter and ideal for visits and tastings.
Who is this trip best suited for?
For those who enjoy the good life. You like a great meal just as much as exploring a region.
What makes this route special?
You stay in one place but still see a lot. From Cognac and its vineyards to the coast and oysters, everything is close by.
Why book with Caractère?
- Best price guarantee
- Caractère extras
- Just one phone call or email away from our enthusiastic travel experts
- Pay safely
- No extra or hidden fees
