Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, a gem of southern Charente clinging to its cliff
Set off on a charming getaway between Charente and Périgord: Aubeterre-sur-Dronne invites you to stroll through its cobbled streets, meet its passionate artisans and discover its troglodytic treasure — the monolithic church of Saint-Jean, carved out of the rock.
Panoramic views of the Dronne Valley, relaxation by the river, shaded terraces, and a heritage that will capture your heart… Ready to experience this little slice of paradise?
Cave dwellings, panoramic views and the Charente way of life
Carved into the cliff face, nestled beside the River Dronne and brought to life by its artists, Aubeterre reveals its secrets: its troglodyte heritage, swimming and a leisurely stroll through its flower-filled alleyways.
Word of Mouth
Typical of Aubeterre, the stacked wooden galleries on the houses were once used to dry crops. Facing the Dronne, they lend the village an exotic charm.
Your experiences to live in Aubeterre-sur-Dronne
©Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
Explore the village on foot
Stroll along the flower-lined, cobbled streets paved with old river pebbles, admire the contrast between the white façades and the red-tiled roofs of the houses clinging to the cliff in an amphitheatre-like formation, and take a break in one of the village’s shaded squares.
©Aubeterre-sur-Dronne Tourist Office
Enjoy the view
From the viewing point on Rue Saint-Jacques, take in the panoramic view of the houses with their Spanish-style balconies, with the fortified gate of the old castle in the background. One of the finest viewpoints in Aubeterre
Take a refreshing break on the banks of the Dronne
Fancy a breath of fresh air? Head to the banks of the Dronne. It’s the perfect setting to relax whilst enjoying a picnic, a swim or a spot of fishing.
Meet the craftspeople
Potters, milliners, leatherworkers… Alongside shops selling local produce and art galleries, local craftspeople showcase their talents in the heart of the village.
Sample local specialities
Whether at the Sunday morning market or in the shops, treat yourself to some delicacies from the Charente and Périgord regions
Relax on a terrace on Place Ludovic Trarieux
Watch the village come to life at the first light of day whilst sipping your coffee, enjoy an afternoon tea with the family or an aperitif (in moderation) with friends as the sun sets…
Ideas for everyone, all the time
From Jan. 1, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2026 from 9 a.m.
Marché hebdomadaire d'Aubeterre-sur-Dronne
The Aubeterre-sur-Dronne market is a pleasant rendez-vous in this magnificent village classified among the "Most beautiful villages of France". It is held on the central square of the village, lined with shops and restaurants, ideal for prolonging the moment.
Next dates:
- From 01/01/2026 to 12/31/2026
Open every day
From July 4, 2026 to Oct. 31, 2026
Exposition - Les Immortels par Roger Morton - Tza Tza Tzu Galerie
The ‘Tza Tza Tzu Gallery’ is delighted to announce the exhibition ‘Les Immortels’ by photographer Roger Morton.
Next dates:
- From 07/04/2026 to 10/31/2026
From Aug. 31, 2026 to Sept. 20, 2026
Exposition Eclectic - stéphanie Gendre
A pragmatic aesthete who abhors waste, Stéphanie Gendre is a visual artist driven by the need to salvage, reuse, and transform—a reflection of her lifestyle.
Next dates:
- From 08/31/2026 to 09/20/2026
From Sept. 4, 2026 to Sept. 29, 2026
Exposition de sculptures et peintures de Cyril Lagorce - Chez Marguerite
An exhibition by the visual artist Cyril Lagorce, known for his burnt wood sculptures! Well worth a visit!
Next dates:
- From 09/04/2026 to 09/29/2026
The Sept. 12, 2026
Conférence - La forêt : débattre plutôt qu'abattre par Jean-Claude NOUARD
Come along to this talk on the future of our forests and how we can manage them more effectively in the future whilst respecting nature!
Next dates:
- 09/12/2026
The Sept. 19, 2026 from 8:30 p.m.
Concert de l'ensemble vocal CUM JUBILO en hommage à Catherine Ravenne
Come and enjoy this concert of medieval songs in an incredible acoustic and historic setting! This vocal ensemble pays tribute to the opera singer Catherine Ravenne, who passed away last year.
Next dates:
- 09/19/2026
Open every day
From Sept. 19, 2026 to Sept. 20, 2026 from 9 a.m.
Eglise Saint-Jacques - Journées européennes du patrimoine
A marvel of romanesque art, the former collegiate church of Saint Jacques is one of the treasures of Aubeterre-sur-Dronne.
Next dates:
- From 09/19/2026 to 09/20/2026
Open every day
From Sept. 19, 2026 to Sept. 20, 2026 from 9:30 a.m.
Chapelle des Minimes - Journées Européennes du Patrimoine
Come and visit this 17th-century chapel of the former Minimes convent and admire its large stone altarpiece.
Next dates:
- From 09/19/2026 to 09/20/2026
Open every day
From Sept. 19, 2026 to Sept. 20, 2026
Exposition Eclectic - Stéphanie Gendre
A pragmatic aesthete who abhors waste, Stéphanie Gendre is a visual artist driven by the need to salvage, reuse, and transform—a reflection of her lifestyle.
Next dates:
- From 09/19/2026 to 09/20/2026
Rediscover your inner child at the Maison des Marionnettes
Share a ‘screen-free’ moment with your children and introduce them to the world of these wooden and fabric puppets that come to life as a story unfolds… Performances are held at weekends during the summer – in French and English – at the small theatre.
Let’s get in the water! It’s hot
Head to the banks of the Dronne for a family picnic and a day’s swimming, or a canoeing, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding trip with friends (by the hour, half-day or full day, on your own or with a guide)!
An exhibition
Visit the Ludovic Trarieux Centre and discover the permanent exhibition on the theme of citizens’ human rights.
Map of Aubeterre-sur-Dronne
Prepare your stay at Aubeterre-sur-Dronne
Sud Charente Tourisme
Labels and rankings of
Aubeterre-sur-Dronne