This French school trip focusing on the history of the Charente region of southwest France is designed to provide students with a glimpse of the region’s history through its castles, churches, museums and local legends.
Day 1 – Arrive at La Giraudiere
Day 2 – Day Trip to Chalais
Day 3 – Day Trip to Angoulême
Day 4 – Day Trip to Aubeterre
Perhaps the most impressive monument in Aubeterre is the monolithic underground church dedicated to St. Jean, which is the largest underground church in Europe. Carved out of the rock by the disciples of Saint Maur in the 12th century, the structure reaches a height of 20m. In the centre of the apse stands a monolithic reliquary in the Romanesque style.
Day 5 – Day Trip to Chateaubernard and Cognac
Cognac is situated on the river Charente between the towns of Angoulême and Saintes. The majority of the town has been built on the river’s left bank. The smaller right bank area is known as the Saint Jacques district. Some important heritage sites to be explored in Cognac include the Musée des Arts du Cognac, Le Château de Cognac and La Porte Saint-Jacques.
Day 6 – Day at Brossac Lake (Etang Vallier)
Day 7 – Depart for Home
SAFETY and SECURITY NOTE: Bright illuminated vests are available for student use, and each is clearly marked to identify the child as a participant of a school group staying at La Giraudiere.