Cognac Town, Otard Chateau & Distilery(Ending in Le Verdon)

Walk through medieval Cognac and gain a historical perspective of its Old Town and namesake brandy before sampling the spirit at a famed distillery. As you meander along Cognac’s narrow cobblestone streets, you will likely see the Saint Jacques Towers among the remains of the defensive walls, half-timbered buildings such as the House of the Lieutenancy and Saint Léger Church, whose wooden door features the signs of the zodiac. Many of the richly decorated façades feature gargoyles and sculptures of the salamander, the symbol of King François I, who was born in the Château de Cognac in 1494. Following lunch in town, you will visit the château, now the home of Baron Otard Cognac. The distillery has been producing a variety of cognacs in its naturally conducive cellars for centuries, several of which you will taste. Afterwards, you will take the ferry across the Gironde River and re-join the cruise ship in Le Verdon.

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.