Hotels in Saintes

VinesVines, land and sea sums up Saintes gastronomy. The town of Saintes is located in the area of "fine woods", an area where about 31,200 hectares of vines are earmarked for the production of cognac. Spirits from fine woods are generally of good quality, and tend to age well. Cognac and Pineau des Charentes (which is a blend of cognac and grape must) are made here from local vines. They are, of course, to be enjoyed in moderation.LandThe "Petit gris" snail à la Charentaise is one of the culinary specialties of the region of Saintes. The local name of this snail is "cagouille". It is often cooked "à la charentaise", in a short broth with white wine, breadcrumbs and garlic. Many other gourmet specialties of the region are cooked with pork. Another dish worth mentioning is gigorit, a stew prepared with blood and pork neck, and optionally liver and onions.SeaMake the most of a stay at the Hôtel Restaurant Campanile Saintes to taste some typical seafood of the region. Discover the mouclade, traditionally prepared with bouchot mussels, shallots, garlic, cream, eggs and pineau des Charentes (or cognac). Other mentionable delicacies are Royan sardines, pibales, oysters from Marennes-Oléron and frogs legs, known as "thyeusses de gueurnilles," which are among many much-loved specialties.

Cognac FestivalHôtel Restaurant Campanile de Saintes is only a 30-minute drive from the city of Cognac. Take the opportunity to visit the Cognac Festival, which takes place every year at the end of July. For three days of conviviality and sharing, the Cognac Festival highlights the wine and culinary specialties of the Charentais region in an idyllic setting: the Cognac marina. This festival is also an opportunity to attend concerts by international artists, to taste Charentais wines, pineau and cognac, and to sample local produce!Le Festival de SaintesMusic lover? In July, head to Saintes for its annual festival organized by the Abbaye aux Dames. Dating from 1972 and initially devoted to baroque and classical music, the Saintes Festival is today an opportunity to celebrate many genres, from old, to highbrow and contemporary music. Don’t hesitate to take a tour of the city during the festival: it takes place over a dozen days. You are sure to find something to satisfy your musical cravings!