Cognac
This essentially modest town on the river Charente is also one of the best-known names on the planet. Thanks to the mellow spirit which bears its name and the efforts of the many companies that have been marketing it since the 17th century, it must rank after Paris as the best known name in France.
Cognac is a pleasant place to visit with the river frontage of old warehouses, the elegant park around the Hotel de Ville and the Place Francois 1er with cafes and smart shops in the pedestrianised street nearby. Visitors can also call in on Martell, Hennessey or Otard to learn more about why so many of the large buildings have blackened facades. There is a daily market.
Cognac is also home to several excellent Festivals each year, such as the Festival of the detective novel and the Blues Passions when the streets come alive with musicians and performers on all the street corners. Look at the What’s On section for more information
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