The FLow cycling route: Cognac - Saintes

The Flow Vélo – From Cognac to Saintes: a bucolic getaway along the Charente

On almost 39 kmthis step of The Flow Vélo connects two jewels of Charente's heritage: Cognac, city of the famous spirit, and Saintes, an ancient Gallo-Roman city. A stroll without major difficultypunctuated by refreshing stops, river panoramas and a rich natural and cultural heritage.

The departure takes place on the Cognac docksoffering an elegant and lively setting. Before you set off, take the opportunity to explore Cognac museums, the Cognathèque, or the town hall gardensThe route then leaves the riverbanks to cross the municipality of Merpins, where the remains of an ancient abbey and a medieval castle still stand. Very quickly, the Charente river becomes your guide again, the common thread of a peaceful journey.

As you move forward, you enter Charente Maritime. In Salignac-sur-Charente, Port du Lys offers a magnificent view of the river. A few kilometers further on, the charm of Brives sur Charente operates with its "Le Pont des Rives" open-air café, open from May to September – ideal for a gourmet break by the water.

The route then takes you to Rouffiac et Chaniers, where you'll find one of the most fun attractions of the route: the chain binsThese manual crossings of the Charente are both fun and picturesque, perfect for cooling off or reaching the riverside cafes on the other bank, such as The Splashing. In Chaniers, don't miss the Moulin de la BaineDating from the 17th century, its restaurant and river cruises. On Baine Island, the Paillotte welcomes you for water sports such as canoeing or paddleboarding, as well as a campsite and another lively open-air café.

Shortly before arriving at your destination, you cross The hinges, where a "chaucidou" (shared central lane road) guides you to SaintesThis type of infrastructure makes it safer for cyclists to pass while sharing the road with cars. Pay close attention to the signage, often indicated on... wooden bollards from the footbridge over the Né.

Finally Saintes reveals itself in all its rich heritage. Founded by the Romans, the city possesses archaeological treasures: the Arch of Germanicus Gallo-Roman amphitheater, or the church of Saint-Eutrope and the majestic Abbey of the Ladies, which has become a musical city. The experience there is both cultural and sensory, thanks in particular to the Basilik carousel, which invites young and old to an unusual discovery of music.

Bordered by the Charente river, Saintes It is also appealing for its lifestyle. One can happily stroll along the quays, settle down on a terrace or on a restaurant bargelulled by the river's current. This gentle and varied stage, between nature and history, is a must-do on the Flow Vélo route. a concentrate of Charente sweetness to be savored with every turn of the wheel.