One of the best ways to explore the Charente countryside is aboard a gabarre, a replica of the 17th-century flatboats once used to transport paper and cognac. From the embarkation point in Saint-Simon, you cruise leisurely along the river and enjoy the green, rolling countryside.
Along the way, you will pass special historical sites, such as the graffiti left by centuries-old boaters under the bridges. Near the mooring you will also find a small museum, where you will learn more about the rich history of the gabarres and their role in the region.