Canoeing and Kayaking
Not far from Angoulême, the capital of the Charente region, canoeing on the River Tardoire is possible with the Maison de Canoe at Montbron.
The Centre Departémental de Plein Air de Chambon rents out kayaks and canoes in July and August. The river has been widened to include canoe passes and fish ladders beside the mill dykes. Not far from Ruffec there are also clubs for canoeing at Mansle and Montignac.
If you need any kind of general information about these particular watersports then you can contact the Fédération Française de Canoë-Kayak
Water Sport Activities On A Lake
Watersports such as windsurfing and swimming can be enjoyed at Lake Lavaud in the Charente region. The lake covers a very large area and features a watersports centre where it’s possible to learn to windsurf, waterski or even to sail a dinghy. It’s also possible to hire a pedalo or canoe or if the fancy takes you, simply go for a swim. It’s also possible to fish nearby and this particular area of the Charente really is the ideal spot for a family day out – picnic areas are dotted all around the lake which were created when the river was dammed.
Fishing
Where the Charente River crosses the Ruffec district, its tributaries are full of fish including gudgeon, pike and trout and when the holiday season is open fishing licences can be purchased reasonably cheaply.
Fishing can also be enjoyed near to Confolens on the rivers of the Charente-Limousine.
For general information apply to the Fédération Française des Pecheurs en Mer
Rock Climbing
Lichères-la-salle is located 3 miles north-east of Mansle in the Charente region and here there is a tourist centre for outdoor pursuits. There are many hiking and rumbling pats in the woodlands or along the river Charente. For those who like to be a bit more active, the Roc de Rosny has been adapted for rockclimbing. If this is of interest to you then you can get more information at the Mansle tourist office: Tel. 05 45 20 39 91.
