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"La Saintongeaise"

Confirmed Rowing Tour
44 km
CLUB D'AVIRON SAINTAIS
River
Charente
Du 20/06/2026 au 21/06/2026

A rowing tour along the river described by Henry IV as “the most beautiful in the kingdom”, winding through lush green landscapes where keen-eyed nature lovers may spot otters, storks and kingfishers, while enjoying the floodplain meadows and riverbanks lined with alder and ash trees. Setting off from the rowing club, you will head upstream before turning around in the centre of Saintes, a designated City of Art and History, renowned for its monuments dating from the Gallo-Roman period and the Middle Ages. As you admire the Arch of Germanicus from the river below, you will turn back downstream towards Saint-Savinien. Following the meandering course of the Charente, you will discover a wealth of monuments and historic remains dating from the 11th to the 20th century. Along the route, you will catch sight of the Manoir de Courbiac, followed by the village of Bussac and its château, passing through Port Berteau, once a favourite retreat of painters Corot and Courbet. You will then row alongside the town of Taillebourg, famous for the historic battle in which Saint Louis defeated the English. After around 15 km, you will successively pass the Châteaux of Panlois, Coulonges and Crazannes. Finally, after 23 km of rowing, you will arrive at the picturesque village of Saint-Savinien, where charming riverside houses are reflected in the peaceful waters of the Charente.

Provisional programme

20/06 Saturday - Saintes-Saint-Savinien -> 23 km
2.30 pm Departure from the Saintes Rowing Club to explore the town centre, followed by the start of the rowing tour towards Saint-Savinien. Midway stop in Taillebourg.
5.30 pm Arrival in Saint-Savinien. Accommodation in a mobile home and/or lodge tent at the Île aux Loisirs campsite.
6.30 pm Guided visit of Saint Savinien or free trip Terra Aventura
7.30 pm Presentation and tasting of local Charente specialities
8.30 pm Dinner at the Île aux Loisirs restaurant
21/06 Sunday - Saint-Savinien - Saintes -> 21 km
9 am Departure for Saintes after the breakfast
Noon Arrival and lunch at the club in Saintes

Rowers :
150€ with accommodation, 1 night, 3 meals
110€ without accommodation, 3 meals

Companions :
150€ with accommodation, 1 night, 3 meals
110€ without accommodation, 3 meals

Seat rental :
25€, 35 available seats

Boats :
Recreational double scull, recreational four-person sculling boats

CLUB D’AVIRON SAINTAIS

Lionel DUMAS-LATTAQUE
07 72 14 58 93
dumas.saintes@wanadoo.fr