A royal day at La Rochefoucauld

La Rochefoucauld is a perfect day getaway destination, offering a harmonious combination of historical heritage and provincial charm. As soon as you arrive, the majestic castle of La Rochefoucauld, nicknamed "The Pearl of Angoumois", welcomes you with its elegant silhouette reflected in the Tardoire. This jewel of French architecture, one of the most beautiful castles in France, attracts nearly 30,000 visitors every year who come to admire it and uncover the secrets of its history.

Visit the unmissable Château de La Rochefoucauld

Start your day with a visit to the castle, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Built from 980 by Fucaldus, Viscount of Limoges, this ancient medieval fortress has belonged to the same family for over 1000 years! It was largely enlarged and embellished in the 16th century by François II de la Rochefoucauld.

Entrance through the imposing gate is spectacular. Once inside, explore its sumptuous main courtyard, which evokes the palaces of the Italian Renaissance, its many richly decorated rooms including the charming little boudoir of Marguerite d'Angoulême dating from the 17th century. Each room tells a fascinating story from the La Rochefoucauld family who have lived here for 24 generations.

Then climb the spiral staircase of 108 spiral steps to access the towers, from where you can admire a breathtaking view of the building. Don't miss the spectacular library, decorated with woodwork and which brings together a collection of more than 20,000 precious books during a guided tour which continues in the Treasury room, containing the archives and old books that the guide handles with care care before our eyes.

Apart from the library and the treasure, visiting the castle is free, allowing you to wander at your own pace and enjoy the panoramic views of the village, the river and the surrounding countryside.

Cross the bridge to go to the opposite bank to enter Rochefoucaud. Heritage signposts are scattered throughout the heart of town, pointing out sites like the former Carmelite convent, the Church of Notre-Dame de l'Assomption, as well as many small old houses.

Crafts: The Famous Charentaises

Who has never dreamed of putting on these legendary red checkered wool slippers? Created under Louis XIV, Charentaise has fascinating origins. The materials came at the time from surplus production from weavers working on making uniforms for the Royal Navy and reform felt from the Angoumois paper mills. In 1907, Théophile Rondinaud, shoemaker in La Rochefoucauld, created the Charentaise with a Scottish print. This famous slipper obtained geographical indication protection in 2019 under the title “Charentaise de Charente-Périgord”.

After a stroll in the heart of the city, go to the Rondinaud boutique on Rue des Halles to choose your pair of slippers for winter days! There are all kinds of original patterns and prints that break codes and tradition.

Traditional wood-fired dinner at Barboc

At the end of the day, don't miss out on enjoying an unforgettable dinner at the Barboc restaurant, a stone's throw from La Tardoire. Nestled in an enchanting setting with its large terrace shaded by olive trees and a Provençal atmosphere, this restaurant is a new culinary gem founded by the former owners of Chez Steph.

Renowned for its wood-fired meats, a specialty that attracts gourmets from across the region, Barboc offers you a simple and authentic gastronomic experience. The atmosphere is both warm and friendly, ideal for relaxing after a day of discoveries. Choose from a selection of meats grilled to perfection, accompanied by delicious homemade fries. Lovers of good food will be delighted by the exceptional quality of the local meat and the culinary talent of the chef.

Thus ends a day rich in history and flavors in La Rochefoucauld, a destination that charms with its heritage and friendliness. Whether you are a history buff, a heritage lover or a gourmet, this small Charente town will seduce you and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Article and photos by Lesley Williamson

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