Nestled in the heart of Charente, the town of Cognac immediately brings to mind its world-famous spirit. However, reducing this fascinating area to its iconic houses would mean missing out on a multitude of unique experiences. With its heritage, nature, family activities and unusual discoveries, Cognac offers an exceptional playground for all travellers. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, culture or thrills, the region is brimming with activities to enrich your stay, whether short or long.
Here, lush green landscapes blend with medieval history, winding rivers run alongside vineyards, and every village hides a treasure waiting to be explored. Imagine gliding peacefully down the Charente River aboard a traditional barge, setting off on a donkey-led walk through the countryside, or climbing through the treetops in a tree-top adventure park. For heritage enthusiasts, castles, museums and historical trails recount a rich and fascinating past. For families, there is no shortage of fun activities that promise wonderful moments together.
If you are looking for activities near Cognac to fill your weekend, create family memories or enjoy a unique adventure, you have come to the right place. Here are our top 10 must-do activities around Cognac, carefully selected for their accessibility, originality and ability to offer truly unforgettable moments.
1. Fontdouce Adventure Park
Located in an exceptional natural setting at the foot of the thousand-year-old Fontdouce Abbey, this adventure park is a true oasis for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts. Its tree-top adventure park, one of the most comprehensive in the department, offers an immersive experience with courses suitable for all levels. Beginners can progress at their own pace, while the more daring can take on the giant 200-metre zip lines that fly over the valley. The continuous lifeline system guarantees optimal safety, allowing everyone to enjoy themselves to the full.
But Fontdouce Adventure Park is much more than just tree climbing. It is the ultimate multi-activity venue, offering outdoor laser tag, bubble football, treasure hunts, interactive rallies and even team games that will turn your day into a real adventure. It’s the perfect destination for families, groups, or outings with friends, set in lush green surroundings that inspire serenity and wonder.
2. Terra Aventura
With Terra Aventura, get ready for an adventure in the great outdoors! A modern-day treasure hunt, this free game takes you along trails, through villages and iconic landscapes with a series of puzzles accessible via the mobile app. Each route tells a story and reveals surprising facts about local culture, nature and traditions.
Children love following in the footsteps of the Poï’z, little collectible characters, while adults enjoy the walk punctuated with humour, discoveries and historical revelations. Accessible to all, Terra Aventura is an excellent way to rediscover the region in a different way: by having fun, observing and learning, while enjoying the beauty of the Charente countryside. A perfect experience for families who want to combine walking, games and cultural discovery.
3. The Donkeys of Reverie
For a gentle, soothing and completely exotic activity, Les Ânes de la Rêverie is a sure bet. This unique experience allows you to go hiking in the company of donkeys, animals known for their patience, intelligence and affectionate nature. Children are immediately captivated by this interaction, learning to brush, saddle and guide their companion for the day.
The walks on offer take you through the Charente countryside, combining forest paths, vineyards and superb views. Whether you choose a short stroll or a longer hike, each route invites you to relax and slow down. Some circuits even include a peaceful picnic stop, for a simple and authentic moment in the heart of nature. An ideal activity for reconnecting with the essentials and sharing a truly relaxing moment with your family.
4. Explore Cognac with Trot’z ride
To discover Cognac from an unusual, dynamic and eco-friendly perspective, Trot’z Ride offers all-terrain electric scooters for riders aged 14 and over. Starting from Île Madame in Mainxe-Gondeville, you can explore the Charente countryside in complete freedom, guided by two itineraries that are as beautiful as they are enriching.
- The river route of the gabarres (1 hour)
This route follows the banks of the Charente to Saint-Simon, taking the Flow Vélo cycle path. You can enjoy peaceful river landscapes and combine this ride with a tour and tasting at a cognac house (Braastad or Courvoisier). - Castles and vineyards (2 hours)
Ideal for heritage enthusiasts, this tour connects several iconic castles and takes you through sumptuous vineyards before arriving in Cognac. Tours and tastings are also available.
This activity combines freedom, discovery and driving pleasure, while remaining environmentally friendly.
5. The Beekeepers of Aliénor
Les Apiers d’Aliénor offers a unique experience for families curious to discover the fascinating world of bees. Wearing authentic beekeeping gear, you can safely approach the hives and observe the organised work of the foragers up close. This introduction, led by an enthusiast, helps you understand the vital importance of bees in our ecosystem and overcome any apprehensions you may have.
The explanations are accessible, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the experience concludes with a honey tasting that delights young and old alike. It’s the perfect activity for teaching children about nature while sharing a fun and enriching experience.
6. River cruise aboard La Demoiselle
For a peaceful and poetic discovery of Cognac, there is nothing like a cruise aboard La Demoiselle, a modern barge inspired by traditional Charente boats. Sailing on the Charente offers a completely different perspective of the town, highlighting its quays, trading houses and green landscapes.
The tour includes commentary, allowing you to learn more about the history of the river, the cognac trade, river activities of yesteryear and the architectural heritage of the surrounding area. It is a gentle and immersive way to discover Cognac, ideal for families, couples or travellers seeking relaxation.
7. Exploring the Saintonge Vélorail
The Saintonge Vélorail offers a fun and unusual activity: cycling along a disused railway track, surrounded by varied landscapes combining forests, vineyards and traditional hamlets. The route is accessible to all and requires only moderate effort, making it an ideal outing for families.
Each turn of the pedals reveals a new landscape, and the sensation of gliding along the tracks provides simple, enjoyable pleasure. It is an original way to explore the region while enjoying the outdoors and sharing a special moment with friends or family.
8. The Castle of Enigmas
The Château des Énigmes is a truly immersive adventure where you are transported back to the Renaissance to solve a pirate-themed treasure hunt. Combining challenges of skill, logic puzzles, secret passages and themed settings, this captivating experience appeals to children and adults alike.
For over three hours, everyone actively participates in advancing the quest, making it a dynamic, fun and suspenseful outing. It’s the perfect activity for those who enjoy life-size detective games and strong narrative worlds.
9. 5 Quads
For thrill seekers, 5 Quads offers quad bike rides through the heart of the Charente countryside. After an introduction to safety rules, you’ll set off on an adventure along winding paths through vineyards, woodlands and hills. The routes are suitable for all levels, allowing both beginners and experienced riders to enjoy the experience.
This activity combines adrenaline, scenic discovery and driving pleasure, ideal for enjoying an exciting experience with family or friends. The panoramic views along the route make the experience even more memorable.
10. The Jonzac Antilles
For a day of relaxation and water fun, head to Les Antilles de Jonzac, one of the largest water parks in the region. With its tropical lagoon, giant slide, spa area, heated pools and exotic atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to have fun, relax or share an unforgettable moment with your family.
Children can enjoy the play areas while parents relax in the hot tubs and wellness areas. Whatever the weather or season, Les Antilles de Jonzac guarantees a great day out.
