10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN COGNAC, FRANCE

After an epic road trip through Champagne, France I continued my road trip to the region of Cognac in the southwestern part of France. Cognac is a variety of brandy and made of white wine using specific types of grapes. The drive from Champagne to Cognac is scenic and has multiple small towns to stop and explore. It’s a little over 6-hours but thanks to Hertz we had a fun and relaxing drive through the countryside. There are plenty of stops but my friend and I decided to visit the Chateau de Chaumont in Chaumont-sur-Loire and it was one of the most stunning castle I’ve ever seen.

10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN COGNAC

We spent a total of three nights in Cognac and we were only scratching the surface. There is so much to see, do and so much to learn about all of the different types of Cognac. Luckily for you, I’ll be sharing all of the best things to do in Cognac.

1. STAY AT L’YEUSE HOTEL

L ‘yeuse is beautiful and an experience I really enjoyed. The room was very charming, quaint with white and baby blue colors. It offered stunning views of the countryside and the property also has its own terrace with panoramic views. The restaurant at the property is delicious! L ‘yeuse sources locally from their own garden and farm so everything was super fresh and tasty.

Luggage: Briggs & Riley

2. VISIT BOURGOIN COGNAC

It was so much fun visiting Bourgoin Cognac’s farm and learning about their process. I even bottled my own bottle from start to finish!

3. TASTING & TOUR AT CHATEAU COURVOISIER

We had the opportunity to visit and tour Chateau Courvoisier. I loved learning about how it’s named “the Cognac of Napoleon”. We were able to visit the room of paradise where all the old Courvoisier bottles are currently located, some date back to the French Revolution!

4. TOUR & TASTING AT REMY MARTIN

We spent half the day visiting Remy Martin, exploring the property, made my own cocktail, enjoyed the VIP Club and had an amazing lunch. I highly recommend making reservations for their VIP Club Package.

5. TASTING & TOUR AT HENNESSY

Tour the birthplace of Hennessy and experience a Cognac tasting. I did not get a chance to visit but I’m definitely going to the next time I’m back in Cognac! The property looks amazing.

6. EXPLORE COGNAC OLD TOWN

Take a tour around the old town of Cognac. There’s so many cute corners and homes you will want to photograph. If time permits, visit the Royal Castle of Cognac.

7. CRUISE ON LA CHARENTE

Spend an afternoon cruising along the La Charente river with a picnic lunch. For more information on how to plan your day, contact XO Madame

8. CARRIAGE RIDE IN THE VINEYARDS

This was the first time I’ve had a carriage ride through the vineyards and it was so much fun! If you’re looking for a romantic evening, this is a great experience during sunset. Contact XO Madame

9. DINNER AT LA COURTINE

Great restaurant with perfect outdoor seating with a view of the river. Get the escargot!

10. FINE DINING DINNER AT LA RIBAUDIERE

This restaurant is a must! It’s a classy restaurant looking over the Charante and has amazing food. Each dish is creative, fresh and one of the best restaurants in Cognac.

I had such a great time exploring Cognac, learning about history and how Cognac is made. With this post, I hope I’ve convinced you to explore this beautiful region and other wine regions in France! I cannot wait to explore more of them myself!