Due to its beauty, Aubeterre is a popular filming location for movie companies. Its picturesque treelined square, narrow cobbled streets and whitewashed houses also prove a firm favorite with artists, potters, sculptors and other craftsmen who come to this pretty part of South-western France in their droves. During Ascension Day week the village plays hosts to visiting artisans and this is one of the best times to visit.
One of The Most Beautiful Villages in France
Officially recognized as a member of the exclusive club of 152 most beautiful villages in France (Les Plus Beaux Villages de France) Aubeterre is situated along the banks of the Dronne, which forms a frontier between the Charente and the Dordogne. It perches majestically on the hillside, overlooking the river and the breathtaking French countryside.
It is in the summer when Aubeterre is at its most photogenic. During July and August the view from the village is punctuated with fields upon fields of yellow sunflowers, all standing to attention.
Amongst its many famous past inhabitants, Aubeterre was once home to Roger Vivier, the French fashion designer who was responsible for one of the most significant footwear inventions of our time, the stiletto heel. Queen Elizabeth II wore a pair of Vivier’s creations at her coronation.
The Largest Subterranean Church in Europe
The village is built in the form of an amphitheatre which stretches down to the river. The most impressive building is the underground church of St Jean. This monolithic church was carved out of the rock by 12th century monks and took an estimated 100 years to complete. Saint Jean is the largest subterranean church in Europe, with its vaulted ceiling reaching a height of 20 meters. During the summer classical concerts are held here, taking advantage of the building’s unique acoustics.
Other Aubeterre Attractions
Its narrow streets also play host to a school museum, a doll museum, a puppet theater, several potteries, and numerous gift shops which display the work of local artists. The Hotel de France sits proudly at the far end of the square, providing a popular watering hole for thirsty tourists and local residents. There is a local market on Sunday mornings which is at its most lively during the warmer months.
The Smallest Brewery in France
Aubeterre is also home to the smallest brewery in France. The country’s first micro brewery, established in 1985, opens during the summer months of July and August. The Bobtail Brewery, started by Canadian-born archaeologist Bruce Hocking, offers a selection of 18 wheat-based and fruit beers.
Providing a home-from-home for its many British visitors and ex-pats, the area also houses an English tea shop which specialises in cream teas, crumpets and traditional Cornish pasties.
Gill Hart - Gill Hart is a fashion and image professional who specializes in women's fashion over 50.
