A little town marked by water and art
Dismounting, enjoy exploring the picturesque little town of Saint-Savinien-sur-Charente by foot. Stretching across both banks of the Charente, it looks like a picture postcard. The place has been triply recognized for its architectural heritage and its artistic qualities. Saint-Savinien boasts many attractions to surprise travellers in search of both beautiful nature and man-made features.
Walking and relaxation for families visiting Saint-Savinien
Nestled on the banks of the Charente River, Saint-Savinien is an ideal destination for a stroll and a relaxing family outing. With its charming narrow streets, peaceful quays, and green spaces, the village invites you to wander at a leisurely pace. Young and old alike can enjoy outdoor activities, playgrounds, walks along the river, or a delicious break on a terrace. Combining heritage, nature, and a friendly atmosphere, Saint-Savinien offers a pleasant setting for sharing a family day in a calm and authentic environment.
Outings on a miniature boat at Saint-Savinien
In the heart of the village of Saint-Savinien, the miniature boat trip offers a unique and family-friendly activity on the banks of the Charente River. Visitors can pilot their own small electric miniature boats, replicas of real vessels, in a peaceful and verdant setting. Accessible to both children and adults, this attraction allows visitors to discover the joys of boating in a fun and safe way. Combining relaxation, discovery, and entertainment, this unusual outing is one of Saint-Savinien's signature activities and attracts many visitors each year looking for a pleasant moment on the water.
Visit the Pôle des Arts de Saint-Savinien
The Arts Center is a must-see cultural venue in Saint-Savinien, dedicated to artistic creation and fine crafts. Located in a charming setting, it hosts exhibitions, workshops, and artists working in a variety of disciplines: painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography, and other crafts. Visitors can discover original works, interact with the artists, and enjoy a welcoming cultural atmosphere in the heart of the town. A true hub for encounters and creativity, the Arts Center contributes to the vibrant cultural and artistic life of Saint-Savinien.
Coup de coeur Gourmand : La chocolaterie Les Frères de la Côte
La chocolaterie Les Frères de la Côte se distingue par son approche artisanale « bean to bar », où chaque étape de fabrication du chocolat est maîtrisée, de la fève jusqu’à la tablette. Ses fèves de cacao, principalement issues des Caraïbes, sont transportées à la voile à bord du célèbre cargo maritime Tres Hombres, réduisant ainsi l’empreinte carbone du transport.
La marque est également reconnue pour ses recettes originales et authentiques, sans arômes artificiels, ainsi que pour certaines créations vieillies en fûts de rhum, qui apportent des notes boisées et épicées uniques. Entre savoir-faire artisanal, esprit marin et engagement écologique, Les Frères de la Côte propose un chocolat à forte identité, inspiré du voyage et des traditions.
Discover the historic riverside
Set between river and limestone cliff, the main part of Saint Savinien was focused around port and quarry. River activity here reached its height in the 17th century, the place renowned for transporting such goods as wine, spirits, wood and cut stone. Since then, Saint-Savinien has played on its historic attractions, today being known as capital of river fishing in Charente. Wandering along the quays, admire the boats moored here, as well as the flower displays. You can cycle off by yourself or on a tour to Le Chail Cliff, from where so much stone used to be quarried. Or, for a change from cycling, try a trip out on the water, on a boat, a canoe, or then cycling along… on a pedalo!
Explore Saint Savinien, designated a Ville d’Art et d’Histoire
A delight for the eyes, Saint Savinien has been designated a Ville d’Art et d’Histoire for its cultural riches. It puts artists and craftspeople to the fore. There are numerous art galleries and exhibition venues around the centre, some inviting you to discover lesser-known professions, with a stone sculptor, a knife-maker and a wood-turner, as well as painters. Also look in at the Pôle des Arts called Cargo Bleu, admiring the palette of colours used by local artists.
Gain height to enjoy views down on the Charente. Climb the lanes to the heart of the little town, taking a trip down the centuries.
First stop, the 12th-century church. Continue on to the Couvent des Augustins. Next, continue on to discover the Château de la Cave, a 16th-century fortified lodge. There are even vestiges of quarrymen’s houses from the Gallo-Roman period, with semi-troglodytic houses dug into the cliff looking down from the upper part of the settlement.
Relax and have fun exploring Saint Savinien with the family
Don’t hesitate to explore Saint Savinien with your little ones, who’ll find plenty of activities to amuse them here, the place providing a wonderful refreshing break on your family cycling adventure.
Head on to the île de la Grenouillette to try out a nautical activity at the miniature port, or make the most of the inflatable games in the play area or to try out an olden-style merry-go-round.
Change of period! Several merry-go-rounds recall the start of the 1900s, and prove a joy for children as well as nostalgic older types. What with period swings, a merry-go-round with flying chairs, and a pedal-cart circuit, children will be thrilled.
To journey through time and space on a really original outing, head to Saint Savinien’s miniature port and embark on a miniature boat! The novel vessels here include a mini-fishing boat, a mini cargo ship and a mini Mississippi steam boat. As a family, head out through enchanting decors, young and old alike being surprised by settings evoking different parts of the world, including a Chinese bridge, a Japanese footbridge and a replica of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge.
Custom route
Custom route
10 Saintes / Saint-Savinien
