Visit Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, a jewel in the south of Charente

On the border of Charente and Périgord in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, a charming village clinging to its cliff overlooking the Dronne River is revealed: Aubeterre-sur-Dronne. Adorable with its flower-filled alleyways, it is also rich in historical, cultural, and natural heritage to be discovered at any time of year. Take the time to stop in Aubeterre-sur-Dronne with the Charente Guide!

A Charente village with many labels

This pretty village in the far south of Charente is a popular destination for tourists, having even been named "the French people's favorite village in 2020". Still as attractive with its limestone facades and Charente tile roofs, it is also one of the " most beautiful villages in France " and the " Small Towns of Character ". Suffice it to say that Aubeterre-sur-Dronne has many secrets to reveal to you during the visit, which can be guided on request throughout the year.

An unmissable and lively town

Let yourself be carried away by the charm of Aubeterre-sur-Dronne and its white stone houses that surround pretty flower-filled alleyways. Between hollyhocks, a square shaded by lime trees, and hanging gardens, the village is a gem of the Charente that can be visited without moderation. Lively and dynamic, it is renowned for its concentration of artisans, ceramists, and potters who welcome you into their shops and show you their meticulous work. Captivating is a term that perfectly describes Aubeterre-sur-Dronne when you take the time to stop there.

Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, unmissable visits in Charente

Located on the Way of St. James, the village has two major historical monuments which delight the curious and lovers of old stones.

The underground church of Saint John

This so-called monolithic church is surprising, dug into the limestone cliffs in the ^12th century. Like a cave, it preserves the coolness of the stones and impresses with its volume since the vault of its central nave rises to more than 20 meters. This troglodyte church, a true medieval masterpiece, brings together a Romanesque-style stone reliquary, a baptismal pool and an incredible necropolis dating from 1958 containing more than 80 sarcophagi.

Saint-Jacques Church

This former 12th ^- century collegiate church was rebuilt in the ^17th century, retaining its Romanesque façade adorned with finely sculpted arches. Geometric motifs, plant ornaments and even chiseled capitals present this church as the other marvel of Aubeterre. Its Hispano-Moorish decor bears witness to its role as a stopping point on the roads to Santiago de Compostela.

Cave Church ©Lesley Williamson

A leisure center on the banks of the Dronne

Open all year round, this natural space is ideal for swimming, relaxing, picnicking, or enjoying a variety of activities such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing, or tennis. Children will love the playground and sand volleyball court, while older children can enjoy a game of pétanque. In season, swimming is supervised, and the campsite's bar-snack area allows you to eat on the go while enjoying entertainment such as karaoke and concerts.

Photo credit ©Lesley Williamson

Events not to be missed in Aubeterre-sur-Dronne

You won't be bored in this small Charente village with numerous exhibitions organized at the tourist office, local art galleries, and the town hall. The Sunday market is a must-see event, complemented by a few dates:

• The Musical Nights Festival is held in the underground troglodyte church of Saint-Jean and in July and August
• The Potters' Festival organized during the European Heritage Days in September
• Aubeterre Summer Festival in August, spread over 3 days of festivities

Visit Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, a stopover you won't soon forget in Charente.

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