Gîtes in Angoulême

Three iconic places to discover in Angoulême

Angoulême reveals its history through a number of key sites that set the tone for the city. These monuments and museums recount the glorious history of the Angoulême plateau, from the Romanesque period to the present day. A stay in a holiday cottage allows you to explore them at your own pace, whilst strolling through the old town and its immediate surroundings.

1. Saint-Pierre Cathedral, Angoulême

This Romanesque cathedral has dominated the city skyline since the 12th century. Its sculpted façade makes an immediate impression: it depicts the Last Judgement and the Ascension of Christ in a cascade of stone carvings, executed with remarkable finesse. Inside, the understated architecture contrasts with the richness of the exterior décor. Listed as a historic monument, it occupies a privileged position on the plateau, visible from several points across the town. It is an unmissable stop for anyone wishing to capture the essence of medieval Angoulême.

2. The Ramparts of Angoulême

Nearly three kilometres of fortifications encircle the plateau of the upper town, forming a promenade much loved by locals and visitors alike. This circular walk offers unobstructed views at every turn of the Charente River winding below and the valleys stretching towards the horizon. These well-preserved medieval walls are one of the region’s major scenic attractions. A walk along the ramparts combines gentle exercise with contemplation – the ideal way to get some fresh air and a change of perspective after a day spent at a holiday cottage.

3. Angoulême Museum

Housed in the former Hôtel Saint-Simon, this municipal museum brings together the region’s treasures. The prehistory and Gallo-Roman archaeology collections immerse visitors in the region’s roots, whilst the fine arts and ethnography sections shed light on more recent periods. The ancient ceramics and historical artefacts provide an insight into the daily life and craftsmanship of past generations. The galleries are a pleasure to explore, uncluttered, and offer an enriching cultural experience.

These three sites encapsulate the spirit of Angoulême: a city where architecture speaks for itself, where heritage blends with the landscape, and where history is passed down naturally. A stay in a holiday cottage gives you the freedom to return and explore them at your leisure.

The ideal time of year to rent a holiday cottage in Angoulême

Each season transforms Angoulême and its surroundings, offering very different atmospheres to those who know how to appreciate them. Choosing when to stay depends above all on what you fancy: are you looking for mild temperatures and days spent strolling about, or do you prefer the cosy, cosy atmosphere of winter in the city?

Spring blankets Angoulême in its soft colours. Between April and May, the Charente emerges from winter with pleasant temperatures that invite you to explore the city’s ramparts and gardens without the discomfort of the weather. The outdoor cafés come back to life, and walks along the river become accessible to everyone. It’s an excellent time for families who want to explore without the heat getting too intense.

Summer attracts visitors keen to enjoy long, sunny days. July and August bring warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities: visiting historic monuments in the morning, relaxing in the shade in the afternoon. It’s also the season for cultural events and entertainment that bring the city to life. A holiday cottage then provides an ideal air-conditioned retreat for resting between sightseeing trips.

Autumn cloaks Angoulême in warm hues and brings a sense of calm to the town after the summer rush. September and October remain mild, with often overcast skies. This is the time to rediscover Angoulême without the crowds, when you can take your time admiring the historic façades and savouring local life. Holiday rentals allow you to settle in without the pressure of a tight schedule, making them ideal for making the most of these leisurely days.

Winter transforms Angoulême into a more intimate town. Temperatures drop, but rarely reach extremes. The monuments can be admired in a more austere light, whilst the museums become cosy havens. A well-equipped holiday cottage offers the comfort needed for a leisurely stay, spent reading and enjoying selected outings.

In reality, holiday rentals suit every schedule. There’s no such thing as a bad time to visit: it’s the flexibility of a holiday cottage that allows every traveller to find their perfect time to visit.

3 activities you absolutely must try during your holiday in Angoulême

Angoulême has much more to offer than just the peaceful setting of its holiday cottages. The region invites you to explore a wide range of experiences, from cultural heritage to nature and gastronomy. Here are three experiences that will make your stay in the Charente truly memorable.

1. Explore the Cité internationale de la Bande Dessinée et de l'Image

This museum, the only one of its kind in the world, celebrates the art of the comic strip in all its forms. The permanent collections trace the history of the ‘ninth art’, from the earliest comic strips to contemporary digital techniques. Children can discover fascinating graphic worlds, whilst adults can enjoy the temporary exhibitions and archives of renowned creators.

Beyond the museum’s walls, Angoulême itself is an open-air gallery: giant murals adorn the façades of the town centre, transforming every street into a visual journey.

Address: 16000 Angoulême.

2. Walking or cycling along the Charente on the V87 cycle route

The V87 cycle route runs alongside the Charente and offers an ideal itinerary for cyclists seeking rural landscapes and heritage sites. The route takes you through picturesque villages, lush green valleys and historic sites. Walkers follow the same paths and enjoy remarkable views of the river and its shaded banks.

This route allows you to combine physical activity with relaxation: you can set your own pace, stopping for a picnic or to explore a Romanesque church as you round a bend.

Address: .

3. A trip to the Cognac region to visit the cellars and taste cognac

Just a few kilometres from Angoulême, the Cognac region reveals the secrets behind the production of its world-famous cognac. The historic houses open their doors for guided tours where you can discover the art of distillation and barrel ageing. The tasting rooms offer a sensory introduction to the different cuvées and vintages.

Even if you’re not a wine expert, you’ll be captivated by the atmosphere of the cellars, where intense aromas fill the air and a history deeply rooted in the local terroir unfolds.

Address: .

Our travellers’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday cottage in Angoulême

When choosing a holiday cottage in Angoulême, the level of comfort inside is just as important as the location. Travellers who come to explore the ‘City of Images’ and its ramparts are looking for accommodation where they can truly unwind after a day of sightseeing. Facilities form the foundation of a successful stay, particularly when travelling with family or friends. Here are the ones that visitors rate highly.

• Fully equipped kitchen: preparing meals using local produce and enjoying a traditional Angoulême dish at your leisure allows you to save money and cook to your own taste.
• Wi-Fi: stay connected to share photos of the ramparts or check tourist information without relying on an external connection.
• Heating: essential in the off-season and during winter, to enjoy a cosy interior on the cool evenings of the Poitou-Charentes region.
• Private or nearby car park: Angoulême city centre is best explored on foot, but a securely parked car offers peace of mind to travellers with their own transport.
• Washing machine: particularly useful for stays of a week or more, as it prevents you from overpacking your suitcases.
• Terrace or balcony: an outdoor spot to enjoy a morning coffee or relax in the evening, whatever the season.
• Television: for the children on rainy days, or to catch up on the news before hitting the road again.
• Dishwasher: a welcome convenience for families, freeing up time to enjoy the local area rather than spending it at the sink.
• High-quality bedding: restful nights are the foundation of a good stay, especially after climbing the stairs of the town’s castle.

A well-equipped holiday cottage can be tailored to your type of stay, the number of guests and your budget. Accommodation in Angoulême offers a wide range of options to suit all holiday styles.

What is the average price of a holiday cottage in Angoulême?

Prices for holiday cottages in Angoulême vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small cottage sleeping two to four people, you can generally expect to pay between 50 and 90 euros per night. A family holiday let, designed for five to six guests, tends to cost between 80 and 150 euros per night. Larger holiday lets or those offering high-end facilities can cost between 150 and 250 euros per night.

Several factors influence these rates. Location plays a part: accommodation close to Angoulême’s historic centre or with a view of the city walls is generally more expensive. The length of stay also affects the price. Owners often offer discounted rates for stays of a week or even a weekend. A single night’s stay in high season will be proportionally more expensive than a stay of several days during the off-peak season. Additional facilities (swimming pool, private garden, secure car park) also affect the cost.

Seasonality plays a significant role. Summer and festival periods attract more visitors, which tends to drive up prices. Conversely, autumn and winter generally see rates fall. To find the best value for money, it’s a good idea to browse several listings, read reviews from previous guests and book a little in advance, especially if you’re travelling during the school holidays.