Things to do around Bellon
by Car
Bordeaux – 1 h 10 min ♥
Bordeaux is famous for its UNESCO-listed 18th-century city center, with iconic landmarks such as Place de la Bourse and the Miroir d’Eau. Often considered one of the most beautiful cities in France, it combines elegant architecture, great gastronomy, and a vibrant atmosphere.
We asked our dear local friends to curate a selection of their favorite places to eat, drink, and visit in the city.
Click on the link below to discover their recommendations through a custom Google My Maps guide, where all places are pinned on the map and organized by category so you can easily explore the city and save your favorite spots.
Place de la Bourse
Charming Towns & Heritage
Aubeterre-sur-Dronne – 10 min ♥
Elected “Most beautiful french village”, visit the huge 12th-century underground Church of Saint-Jean and relax on the little river beach.
Chalais – 10 min
Monday market famed for “veau de Chalais”, a clifftop château and mellow terrace cafés on Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville.
Barbezieux-Saint-Hilaire – 30 min
Twin medieval towers, narrow streets and wine bars pouring local Pineau and Cognac.
Angoulême – 60 min
Comic-book murals, the Musée de la Bande Dessinée and panoramic walks on the hill-top ramparts above the Charente River.
Nature, Water & Outdoors
Royan – 1 h 20 min ♥
Lively Atlantic-coast resort with 1950s modernist architecture, long Grande Conche beach and surfy Pontaillac bay lined with ice-cream parlours, seafood bistros and a waterfront casino. Great for a full beach day or sunset dinner on the seafront.
Canoe the River Dronne – 10 min
Gentle paddle past cliffs and willow banks; twilight descents twice a week in July–August.
Lac de Guizengeard – 20 min
Short forest loop to vivid turquoise quarry lakes (no swimming).
Voie Verte Cycle Trail – 25 min
Traffic-free former railway with sunflower views; bikes in Aubeterre.
Les Antilles de Jonzac – 45 min
Tropical indoor water-park with lagoon pools, wave machine, slides and spa area; book online in summer.
Food, Drink & Markets
Hennessy, Cognac – 60 min ♥
Multimedia cellar tour ending with VSOP/X.O tasting; reserve ahead.
Family Cognac & Pineau estates – 30 min
Small domaines near Barbezieux host vineyard walks and relaxed apéro-concerts.
Local Markets
Chalais (Mon) for produce; Maison Hennessy (Sun evenings, Jul–Aug) for crafts and street food.