Find your new life
Located in the heart of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in the southwest of France, Charente is a verdant and historic department where life is good. Living in Charente means enjoying rolling landscapes, picturesque villages, and a rich architectural heritage that captivates with its authenticity and gentle lifestyle. Whether you are drawn to its dynamic cities like Angoulême, famous for its International Comic Strip Festival, or its charming medieval villages like Verteuil-sur-Charente and Villebois-Lavalette, Charente offers a diverse array of experiences. Embrace a way of life where nature, culture, and conviviality harmoniously meet!
Charente is one of the twelve departments of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, which stretches along the Atlantic from Spain to the Loire in the southwest of France. Charente is inland, nestled between Charente-Maritime (La Rochelle) and Dordogne (Périgueux). It is a green and dynamic department, close to the beaches of Charente-Maritime, Île de Ré, and Île d'Oléron.
The southwest of France is renowned for its gentle lifestyle, sporty environment, and the warm welcome of its inhabitants! Between Spain and the Atlantic, it is a multicultural region known for its love of gastronomy and incredible local products!
Charente is no exception: here, people enjoy touring the Cognac vineyards, visiting listed churches and castles, tasting local products, strolling through medieval villages, enjoying long bike rides along the rivers, and celebrating with numerous festivals...
This is where you will find the vast Cognac vineyard, covering nearly 75,000 hectares, spread between Charente and Charente-Maritime. Renowned worldwide, the spirit draws its great finesse from an exceptional terroir, a climate tempered by the proximity of the ocean, and know-how passed down since the 15th century.
Many chefs have been attracted to Charente by its exceptional local products and unique culinary know-how. Among the best tables in Charente, you will find many Michelin-starred restaurants, including La Ribaudière with chef Thierry Verrat, Le Moulin de la Tardoire with chef Matthieu Brudo, Les Sources de Fontbelle with chef Guillaume Veyssière, Les Foudres with chef Paolo Boscaro, and Aumi with chefs Michael Clautour and Laura Legeay.
From the lush valleys of the Tude and Charente rivers to the gentle hills dotted with vineyards, every corner of this department reveals a unique natural beauty. Fields of sunflowers and golden wheat stretch as far as the eye can see, while lush forests and winding rivers invite relaxation and exploration. Perched villages and medieval castles add a touch of charm and history to this bucolic landscape, making Charente a true haven for nature lovers.
These landscapes are perfect for activities, making Charente a department where it's easy to stay active! Six bike paths (called véloroutes) crisscross the department, from La Rochelle to Périgord, along navigable rivers where you can go boating, kayaking, or enjoy a peaceful swim!
Charente is a culturally vibrant department: each year, the towns and villages of the region host nationally and internationally recognized festivals!
You are probably familiar with the famous Angoulême International Comics Festival, held every January, which attracts comic book enthusiasts from around the world!
But that's not all. Many music festivals enliven the summer season, such as:
Between city and countryside, by the rivers or in the heart of forests, the Charente department offers a wide variety of places to settle, and just as many different styles of houses! While old houses are primarily sought after, you can also find apartments and townhouses, rural longères, and wine estates at very attractive prices!
Check out our article on the real estate market in Charente for a better overview.
Between the cities of Angoulême and Cognac, the authentic villages like Aubeterre-sur-Dronne and Nanteuil-en-Vallée, and the surrounding countryside, the Charente department offers numerous places to settle down! Discover the most beautiful villages of Charente right here.
With its sunny climate, stunning landscapes, slower pace of life, and welcoming towns and villages, it’s no wonder that Charente attracts many retirees seeking a better quality of life! In addition to all the previously mentioned benefits, Charente is also located close to several thalassotherapy centers and thermal spas, three of which are in Charente-Maritime!
Conclusion
Living in Charente means adopting a peaceful and authentic way of life, where each day is an invitation to discover new treasures. Whether through its historic villages, verdant landscapes, or cultural events, Charente offers an idyllic and enriching living environment. By choosing to settle in this department, you opt for a better quality of life, imbued with conviviality and charm. The rich heritage, natural beauty, and warmth of the inhabitants make Charente a preferred destination for those seeking a perfect balance between tradition and modernity.
