Time for a weekend

Papermaking in Angoulême was born at the beginning of the 14th century. Its development naturally goes hand in hand with that of the printing press. The first mill attested in Charente is that of Negremus sur la Lizonne in 1516. From then on, many wheat or fulling mills were adapted for the manufacture of paper and new mills were built especially for this activity. In 1656, sixty-six mills were counted in Angoumois.
The paper was made sheet by sheet, by hand, using a "form", a wooden frame across which copper or brass wires were stretched tight against each other. The form is immersed in a tank containing the paper pulp diluted in water, and brings back a certain amount of paste on the form.
Constantly evolving, the Charente paper industry specialized in the manufacture of cigarette paper, top-of-the-range paper – the famous Vélin d'Angoulême –, diaries, coated paper, parchment, corrugated cardboard.

In the vicinity of Angoulême, it is possible to climb into a canoe or a kayak to descend the Charente. Peacefully enjoy the river on a course of about 3 kilometers between Chalonne and Bourgines. In the shade of the trees, discover the clear bottom of the water and the fish that accompany you! You can also try the unusual adventure by booking a semi-nocturnal outing. At the end of a quiet canoe trip, you will discover the heights of Angoulême at sunset: don't forget your camera to capture the panoramic view.

For more information on nautical activities